Director, Development

Thrive Scholars

7d

About The Position

We are seeking a dynamic, collaborative, and strategic Director of Development to help lead and strengthen our national fundraising engine. This role plays a key part in coordinating day-to-day Development operations, advancing organizational fundraising strategies, and supporting high-level donor engagement across the country.

The Director of Development will work closely with the Chief Development Officer to ensure all aspects of our revenue work—from corporate partnerships and foundations to regional fundraising, major gifts, and donor stewardship—are aligned, connected, and moving forward. This leader will also manage a targeted portfolio of major donors and support Development-related board engagement at the national level.

This is an ideal role for someone who loves both strategy and execution, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and enjoys strengthening systems, coaching teams, and building relationships that fuel organizational excellence.

Requirements

• 10+ years in fundraising, revenue generation, or comparable experience.
• Experience managing or coaching staff.
• Knowledge of Salesforce or similar CRM systems.
• Experience working with major donors and/or boards.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to synthesize and articulate compelling narratives.
• Demonstrated experience in fundraising, donor strategy, or development operations.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to implement systems, processes, and workflows.
• Comfortable managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

• Background in education, college access, or workforce development is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Support division-wide fundraising strategy, planning, and priority-setting.
• Lead coordination of Development operations—including workflows, systems, accountability structures, and team communication.
• Strengthen Salesforce discipline, reporting, donor data quality, stewardship systems and data transparency.
• Refine fundraising processes across regions and revenue channels.
• Partner with Finance on reconciliation, revenue pacing, and forecasting.
• Support national Board Development initiatives, including meeting preparation, cultivation plans, and donor engagement follow-through.
• Manage a portfolio of major donors and prospects, including individuals, HNWIs, and board-aligned relationships.
• Support and lead high-level donor strategies and solicitations.
• Partner with Corporate Partnerships, Foundations, Communications, Program, and Regional teams to ensure unified messaging and strong donor experiences.
• Support major campaigns, national events, and year-end fundraising initiatives.

Benefits

• Thrive Scholars offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including high-quality health, dental, and disability insurance, over three weeks of paid vacation (over four weeks after two years of employment), and access to an employer-matched retirement plan.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: No Education Listed