Director of Development

Richemont • New York, NY

8d • Hybrid

About The Position

Laureus USA seeks a dynamic and relationship-driven fundraiser to serve as Director, Development. Based in New York City, this role will play a key part in advancing the organization’s fundraising efforts across individual, foundation, and corporate giving, with a particular focus on building and growing individual donor support. Reporting to the Sr. Director, External Affairs, the Director, Development will be responsible for managing and growing a portfolio of donors and prospects, with an emphasis on high-net-worth individuals. This role requires a strong external presence, with the ability to confidently engage donors, build meaningful relationships, and move prospects through the full giving cycle. The Director will also play a role as part of Laureus USA’s national leadership team, contributing to organizational priorities and ensuring alignment between fundraising efforts and broader strategy. The Director will be responsible for developing Laureus’ individual giving strategy, working closely with the Sr. Director, External Affairs and Executive Director to build a more robust and sustainable pipeline. This position requires both strong execution and the ability to operate in a growing area of the organization.

Requirements

• Demonstrated experience in fundraising, with a track record of managing donor relationships and closing gifts
• Experience working with high-net-worth individuals and comfort operating in donor-facing environments
• Strong interpersonal presence, with the ability to build trust and credibility with senior stakeholders
• Experience managing multiple donor relationships and moving prospects through a pipeline
• Ability to work both independently and in collaboration with senior leadership
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion across all forms of diversity and difference
• At least 8 years of relevant experience in development, fundraising, or related external-facing roles

Responsibilities

• Grow and manage a portfolio of donors and prospects across individual, foundation, and corporate giving, with a focus on high-net-worth individuals
• Cultivate, solicit, and close gifts of $25K+ through thoughtful and strategic donor engagement
• Lead donor relationships through the full lifecycle, from identification and cultivation to solicitation and stewardship
• Leverage athlete relationships and engagement opportunities, in coordination with the Athlete Council, to strengthen donor relationships and advance fundraising efforts
• Partner with the Sr. Director, External Affairs and Executive Director on strategy and engagement for priority prospects and donors
• Maintain accurate tracking of donor activity and pipeline progress
• Lead the development and execution of Laureus USA’s individual giving strategy
• Identify and pursue opportunities to build a stronger pipeline of high-net-worth individual donors
• Contribute to the creation of compelling cases for support and engagement strategies tailored to individual donors
• Establish systems and approaches to support long-term growth in individual philanthropy
• Play a leading role in driving fundraising through events, including cultivation events and major fundraising moments
• Support the planning and execution of events in partnership with the broader team
• Engage donors before, during, and after events to deepen relationships and drive giving
• Collaborate with the Board of Directors, Athlete Council, and broader athlete community to support donor engagement, cultivation, and event-based fundraising opportunities
• Participate in evening and weekend events as needed
• Work closely with the External Affairs team to ensure alignment across development, partnerships, and marketing efforts
• Collaborate with program staff to effectively communicate impact and connect donors to Laureus’ work
• Support broader fundraising efforts across foundation and corporate giving as needed
• Serve as a member of Laureus USA’s national leadership team, contributing to organizational priorities and cross-functional alignment
• Represent the development function in internal strategy, planning and decision-making conversations
• Engage regularly with Board members and support their fundraising and relationship-building efforts
• Contribute to a collaborative, high-performing team environment

Benefits

• Eligibility for performance-based bonus
• Comprehensive benefits package

What This Job Offers

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