Director, Institutional Philanthropy

United Way of King County•Seattle, WA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

At United Way of King County, we are working side by side with communities to build an equitable future for everyone. We believe that having staff, volunteers, and supporters that represent diverse backgrounds will allow us to better accomplish our mission. We continue to work diligently to ensure that the field of philanthropy is welcoming to diverse communities. We strive to have a diverse staff and particularly encourage Black, Indigenous and people of color to apply and be part of our team. Our culture fosters collaboration, teamwork, open communication, leadership, integrity, and accountability. Job Summary: Lead transformational funding. Shape community impact. Grow meaningful partnerships. Are you a visionary fundraiser who loves building powerful partnerships that change lives? Do you thrive at the intersection of strategy, storytelling, public-sector funding, and high-impact philanthropy? Are you energized by ambitious goals and inspiring teams to achieve them? If so, this is your leadership opportunity. United Way of King County is searching for an exceptional Director of Institutional Philanthropy to lead our foundation, government, and corporate revenue strategies — a portfolio of more than $15 million annually that fuels some of the most innovative community impact work in the region. This is a role for a strategic thinker, a relationship builder, and someone who sees possibilities everywhere. If you see fundraising as both an art and a strategy — and you’re excited by the challenge of leading one of United Way’s largest revenue channels — this is a rare opportunity to make a measurable and lasting impact.

Requirements

A deep commitment to racial and economic justice.
A track record of meeting and exceeding ambitious fundraising goals.
Expertise in government funding, program outcomes, and compliance.
Exceptional writing, communication, and storytelling skills.
Proven success leading teams and managing complex portfolios.
Strong relationship skills and the ability to connect with executives, funders, government leaders, and community partners.
Confidence in navigating competing priorities with clarity, diplomacy, and vision.
The ability to inspire volunteers, senior leaders, and staff toward shared goals.
Demonstrated understanding of social and racial justice and equity, with a proven commitment to apply racial and economic justice lenses in both personal and workplace contexts.
Lived experience and/or demonstrated professional skills working within a diverse work environment.
Bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Business, Social Services, or related field.
7+ years in development, institutional giving, or corporate sponsorship.
4+ years managing high-performing teams.
Experience with public-sector funding and government grant processes.

Nice To Haves

Background in new business development strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Set and drive an aggressive institutional fundraising strategy — identifying bold opportunities, mitigating risks, and ensuring sustainable year-over-year growth.
Lead a powerhouse team of corporate relations, stewardship, foundation, and grant-writing professionals — inspiring excellence and accelerating results.
Design compelling, complex proposals and steward multifaceted government, foundation, and corporate partnerships.
Serve as our internal expert on federal, state, and local funding — ensuring compliance, alignment, accuracy, and timely reporting.
Champion cross-team collaboration, working closely with Community Services and Engagement leaders to craft high-impact programs that resonate with public and private funders.
Influence at the highest levels, partnering closely with the Chief Philanthropy Officer, President & CEO, Board members, Campaign Chairs, and community leaders.
Build and steward relationships across government agencies, major foundations, corporate partners, elected officials, and philanthropic networks.

Benefits

Medical, dental, vision and life insurance
PTO (including holidays)
403(b) retirement savings plan
Subsidized Transit Pass (Orca Card)
A dynamic hybrid work environment.
Opportunities to collaborate with top civic and business leaders.
Opportunities to work with smart, passionate, and enthusiastic team members and volunteers.
Ongoing collaboration with diverse staff and other constituents.
A culture that values creativity, courage, and continuous learning.
The chance to lead institutional philanthropy at a pivotal time for our region.