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 addressing major health challenges and is committed to ensuring a healthier future for all. With a mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, the AHA operates in various countries and employs a diverse workforce that embodies its core values of inclusivity and support for personal and professional growth. The AHA is known for its strong corporate culture, which emphasizes work-life harmonization and employee well-being.

Job Overview:
The Development Director position is a critical role within the American Heart Association, specifically focused on generating revenue for the Go Red for Women fundraising campaign. This campaign includes signature events such as the Go Red for Women Luncheon and various STEM events. The Director will be part of a four-person team responsible for overseeing fundraising efforts in Delaware, particularly in Wilmington and Newark. The 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 numerous resources to support work-life balance and professional development, including access to Heart U, their corporate university, and additional training opportunities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Development Director will be responsible for recruiting and developing appropriate volunteer leadership, which includes soliciting large-dollar and multi-year corporate sponsorships, cultivating individual donors, and recruiting members for the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) and volunteer committees. The Director will be accountable for achieving overall fundraising goals that align with the AHA's mission. Key responsibilities include generating revenue through local corporate sponsorships and individual donations, building and maintaining relationships with corporate partners and donors, developing proposals to secure funding, coordinating event auctions, and leading engagement efforts for the Cor Vitae giving society. The Director will also collaborate with internal and external partners to plan and implement events and work closely with the Communications Director to support campaign communication plans.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Development Director position should have at least three years of relevant experience in fundraising, sales, or related fields. A university or college degree or equivalent experience is required. The role demands the ability to travel locally up to 75% of the time, with some overnight trips as necessary, and candidates must have access to reliable transportation. Additionally, the ability to lift and move large objects is necessary, and candidates should possess basic proficiency in Microsoft Office applications. Preferred qualifications include experience managing and cultivating relationships with high-level leaders at the C-Suite level and knowledge of corporate and community networks.

Educational Background:
A university or college degree is required for this position, or equivalent experience in a relevant field. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively perform the duties of the Development Director.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of three years of relevant experience in fundraising, sales, or similar roles. This experience should demonstrate a proven track record of success in generating revenue and building relationships with corporate sponsors and individual donors. Experience in managing volunteer leadership and executing fundraising events is also highly desirable.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication within the organization and with stakeholders. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and offers a competitive base salary along with performance-based incentives. The AHA provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, as well as a robust retirement program with employer matching. 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 supports professional development through tuition assistance and various employee resource groups. The AHA is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all qualified applicants are considered for employment regardless of their background.