What are the responsibilities and job description for the Development Director position at Discovery Center of Idaho?
ROP: $80,000 annually
Classification: Full-Time Non-Exempt
Position Summary
The Development Director leads the organization’s fundraising and advancement efforts to ensure long-term financial sustainability and growth. This position is responsible for developing and implementing a
comprehensive fundraising strategy that includes major gifts, annual giving, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, planned giving, special events, capital campaigns, and donor stewardship. The Development Director works closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, donors, volunteers, and community partners to secure philanthropic support and strengthen relationships that advance the organization’s mission.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Fundraising Strategy & Revenue Development
• Develop and implement an annual fundraising plan with measurable goals and revenue targets.
• Lead fundraising initiatives including major gifts, annual campaigns, planned giving, grants, corporate
sponsorships, special events, and capital campaigns.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward individual, corporate, and foundation donors.
• Maintain a robust donor pipeline and moves-management process to increase donor engagement and
giving levels.
• Monitor fundraising trends and recommend new strategies to expand revenue opportunities.
• Meet or exceed annual fundraising goals and budget expectations.
Major Gifts & Donor Relations
• Build and manage relationships with major donors, prospective donors, business leaders, and
community stakeholders.
• Develop personalized cultivation, solicitation, recognition, and stewardship plans.
• Coordinate donor recognition programs and appreciation events.
• Support and coach the Executive Director and Board members in donor cultivation and solicitation
activities.
• Develop and oversee a planned giving and estate giving program.
Foundation, Grant & Corporate Giving
• Research and identify grant and sponsorship opportunities aligned with organizational priorities.
• Collaborate with staff to define funding needs and project outcomes.
• Prepare, review, and submit competitive grant proposals and funding requests.
• Ensure timely completion of grant reports, stewardship activities, and funder communications.
• Manage relationships with foundation and corporate partners.
Events & Community Engagement
• Oversee planning and execution of fundraising events, including the annual gala and other development
activities.
• Represent the organization at community events, meetings, and networking opportunities.
• Strengthen community awareness and support for the organization’s mission and programs.
Development Operations & Reporting
• Maintain accurate donor and prospect records within the donor management database.
• Track fundraising performance metrics and prepare regular reports for the Executive Director and Board
of Directors.
• Develop annual development budgets, revenue projections, and fundraising forecasts.
• Ensure compliance with donor intent, grant requirements, and applicable fundraising regulations.
• Oversee production of fundraising materials, annual reports, campaign collateral, and donor
communications.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Communications, Marketing, Nonprofit Management, Public Relations, or
a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Three or more years of successful fundraising, development, advancement, sales, marketing, or related
experience.
• Demonstrated success in securing major gifts, grants, sponsorships, or other philanthropic support.
• Excellent written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong organizational, project management, and relationship-building abilities.
• Experience managing donor databases, CRM systems, and fundraising software (Altru preferred).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and other business software applications.
Preferred
• Capital campaign experience.
• Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE) credential or equivalent professional training.
• Experience working with nonprofit boards and volunteers.
• Knowledge of planned giving and endowment development.
• Gala planning and execution experience.
Working Conditions
• Some evening and weekend work is required.
• Occasional travel throughout the service area and region.
• Valid Idaho driver’s license and reliable transportation required.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds and carry materials for short distances as needed.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
All employees serve as ambassadors of the organization and are expected to uphold its mission, values, and reputation. Employees must comply with all policies and procedures outlined in the Employee Handbook and demonstrate the following:
Professional Conduct
• Maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and ethical behavior.
• Work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners.
• Accept and provide direction in a constructive and respectful manner.
Personal Conduct
• Conduct oneself with honesty, integrity, respect, reliability, and professionalism.
• Promote a positive and inclusive work environment.
Competency
• Maintain and improve the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform assigned duties
effectively.
• Participate in professional development opportunities as appropriate.
Salary : $80,000