Development Director

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 overcoming major health challenges and ensuring a healthier future for all. With a mission to be a relentless force for longer, healthier lives, the AHA operates in various countries and employs a diverse workforce committed to its core values. The AHA emphasizes work-life harmonization and provides numerous resources to support its employees' personal and professional growth.

Job Overview:
The Development Director position is crucial for generating revenue for the Heart Walk fundraising campaign, which includes the signature Midlands Heart Walk event. The ideal candidate should reside within a reasonable distance from Columbia, SC, and will be responsible for building and maintaining relationships with corporate sponsors and individual donors. This role requires a proactive approach to prospecting and securing sponsorships, as well as developing proposals to engage volunteers and corporate participation. The Development Director will also collaborate with internal and external partners to plan and implement events that align with the campaign's goals and the Association's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Development Director will have a variety of responsibilities, including generating revenue through local corporate sponsorships and individual donations, achieving revenue goals by fostering relationships with corporate partners and donors, and maintaining a pipeline of prospective sponsors and donors. The role involves conducting research to align potential sponsors with campaign goals, developing and presenting proposals, and recruiting executive volunteer leadership and committees. Additionally, the Director will motivate corporate team participation in the Heart Walk, lead engagement for the Cor Vitae giving society, and work closely with the Communications Director to support campaign communication plans.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess at least three years of relevant experience in fundraising, sales, or a similar field. The role requires the ability to travel locally within the Greater Columbia, SC market, necessitating reliable transportation. Candidates must also be capable of lifting and moving large objects and have basic proficiency with Microsoft Office. Preferred qualifications include a university or college degree, experience managing high-level leaders at the C-Suite level, and knowledge of corporate and community networks.

Educational Background:
While a university or college degree is preferred, equivalent experience in fundraising or sales may also be considered. The educational background should ideally support the skills necessary for effective communication, proposal development, and relationship management with corporate sponsors and donors.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in fundraising, sales, or a related field. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of achieving revenue goals and building relationships with corporate partners and donors. Experience in managing volunteer leadership and engaging with high-level executives is also beneficial.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication with stakeholders. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly in diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position with a competitive base salary and the potential for an incentive of up to 25% based on achieving revenue targets. The American Heart Association offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a robust retirement program. Employees are entitled to a minimum of 16 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) per year, which increases with seniority, and 12 paid holidays annually. The organization also supports professional development through tuition assistance and access to its corporate university, Heart U.