Development Director

Development Director

American Heart Association (AHA)

June 1, 2025July 16, 2025West Des MoinesUnited 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 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 major health challenges and is committed to ensuring a healthier future for all. The AHA operates in numerous countries and employs a diverse workforce, focusing on creating a culture where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. The AHA emphasizes work-life harmonization and values the contributions of its employees, encouraging them to be seen, heard, and valued.

Job Overview:
The Development Director position is crucial for generating revenue for the Heart Challenge fundraising campaign, which includes signature events like the Heart Walk and CycleNation. This role is set in a fast-paced sales environment where the primary responsibility is to drive revenue in support of the AHA's mission. The position offers a base salary with the potential for an incentive of up to 25% based on achieving specific revenue targets. The AHA provides various resources to support work-life balance and professional development, including access to Heart U, the organization's corporate university, and additional training and support.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Development Director will be responsible for generating revenue by prospecting and securing local corporate sponsorships and individual donations. Key duties include achieving revenue goals through relationship building with corporate partners and donors, maintaining a pipeline of prospective sponsors and donors, developing and presenting proposals, recruiting executive volunteer leadership and committees, motivating corporate team participation in fundraising events, leading engagement for individual membership in the Cor Vitae giving society, planning and implementing events, and collaborating with the Communications Director to support campaign communication plans.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have at least 3 years of relevant experience in fundraising, sales, or related fields. A university or college degree or equivalent experience is required. The role necessitates the ability to travel locally up to 70% of the time and some overnight trips, requiring reliable transportation. Candidates should also be able to lift and move large objects and possess basic proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Educational Background:
A university or college degree is preferred, but equivalent experience may also be considered. The educational background should align with the responsibilities of fundraising and sales, providing a foundation for effective communication and relationship management.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in fundraising, sales, or a related field. Experience managing and cultivating relationships with high-level leaders at the C-Suite level is preferred, as is familiarity with corporate and community networks.

Languages:
While specific language requirements are not mentioned, proficiency in English is mandatory for effective communication. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position with a focus on field campaigns. The AHA offers a competitive base salary, performance recognition, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, disability, 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, increasing with seniority, and 12 paid holidays annually. The organization also provides tuition assistance for employees seeking further education related to their roles.
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