Development Director

Development Director

American Heart Association (AHA)

February 20, 2025April 6, 2025PhiladelphiaUnited States
American Heart Association (AHA) About
The six cardiologists who founded the American Heart Association in 1924 would be amazed. From humble beginnings, the AHA has grown into the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. A shared focus on cardiovascular health unites our more than 33 million volunteers and supporters as well as more than 3,400 employees.
Job Description

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Development Director
Location: Philadelphia
Country: United States
Deadline Date: No specific deadline indicated, apply timely to not miss an opportunity.

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The American Heart Association (AHA) was founded in 1924 and has since made significant strides in reducing cardiovascular disease deaths by half. The organization is dedicated to addressing the most pressing health challenges and is committed to ensuring a healthier future for all. With a mission that emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, AHA operates in various countries and employs a diverse workforce that reflects the communities it serves. The organization is known for its innovative approaches and resources aimed at improving health outcomes across different populations.

Job Overview:
The Development Director position is a critical role within the American Heart Association, primarily focused on generating revenue for the Heart Challenge fundraising campaign, which includes the signature Heart Walk event. The Director will be part of a small team of five, working in a fast-paced environment that resembles a sales setting. The main responsibility of this role is to drive revenue in support of the AHA's mission, with a base salary complemented by the potential for an incentive of up to 25% based on achieving specific revenue targets. The position requires frequent fieldwork, emphasizing the importance of building and maintaining relationships with corporate sponsors and individual donors to achieve fundraising goals. The AHA provides various resources to support work-life harmonization and professional development, including access to Heart U, the organization’s corporate university.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Development Director will be accountable for achieving an overall fundraising goal and will carry out high-quality events in line with AHA standards. Key responsibilities include generating revenue through local corporate sponsorships and individual donations, building and maintaining a pipeline of prospective sponsors and donors, developing proposals to secure funding, and recruiting executive volunteer leadership and event volunteers. The Director will also engage new individual members for the Cor Vitae giving society and collaborate with internal and external partners to plan and implement events. Additionally, the role involves working closely with the Communications Director to support campaign communication plans, ensuring that all activities align with the AHA's mission and objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Development Director position should possess at least three years of relevant experience in fundraising, sales, or a related field. A university or college degree or equivalent experience is required. The role demands the ability to travel locally up to 75%, necessitating reliable transportation. Candidates should also be capable of lifting and moving large objects, with the understanding that assistance may be needed for heavier items. Proficiency in Microsoft Office is essential, and familiarity with corporate and community networks is preferred.

Educational Background:
A university or college degree is required for this position, or equivalent experience that demonstrates the necessary skills and knowledge for effective fundraising and relationship management. The educational background should ideally include coursework or training relevant to sales, marketing, or nonprofit management, which would enhance the candidate's ability to fulfill the responsibilities of the role.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of three years of experience in fundraising, sales, or a related field. This experience should include a proven track record of successfully generating revenue and managing relationships with corporate sponsors and individual donors. Experience in a nonprofit environment, particularly in roles that involve event planning and execution, is highly desirable. Additionally, experience in managing high-level leaders at the C-Suite level is preferred, as it demonstrates the ability to engage effectively with key stakeholders.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication within the organization and with external partners. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly in diverse communities where the AHA operates, as they can enhance outreach and engagement efforts.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position that is eligible for benefits and incentives. The role is primarily office-based but requires frequent fieldwork. The American Heart Association offers a competitive compensation package, including a base salary, performance recognition, and a wide array of benefits such as medical, dental, vision, and retirement plans. Employees also receive Paid Time Off (PTO) starting at a minimum of 16 days per year, with additional days based on seniority. The organization supports professional development through tuition assistance and various employee resource groups. The AHA is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages applicants from all backgrounds.
Apply now
Similar Jobs