What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Development position at Heart House?
Reports to: Executive Director
Supervises: Two direct reports (Marketing & Development Specialist, Community and Family Engagement Coordinator)
Location: Dallas, Texas
Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt
About Heart House
Heart House is a nonprofit organization serving refugee, immigrant, and other under-resourced children and families in the Vickery Meadow neighborhood of Dallas, Texas. We provide safety, education, and opportunity through afterschool programs, literacy initiatives, and social-emotional learning. As we celebrate our 25th year, we remain committed to breaking barriers and building brighter futures for the children we serve.
Position Summary
The Development Director is responsible for creating, implementing, and overseeing Heart House’s comprehensive fundraising strategy. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, this role provides leadership for all development activities, including individual giving, corporate partnerships, grant funding, volunteers, and special events. The Development Director will supervise two staff members, foster a culture of philanthropy, and work collaboratively with the Board of Directors, Leadership Advisory Council, and community partners to achieve ambitious fundraising goals.
Key Responsibilities
Fundraising & Donor Relations
- Develop and execute a strategic fundraising plan to meet or exceed annual revenue goals.
- Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors at all levels, including individuals, foundations, and corporations.
- Manage the donor lifecycle to ensure retention and increased giving over time.
- Lead the planning and execution of special events and fundraising initiatives.
Grant Management
- Oversee the identification, writing, and submission of grants, working with program staff to ensure alignment with organizational needs.
- Maintain a grant calendar and ensure timely reporting to funders.
Corporate & Community Engagement
- Build and strengthen corporate sponsorships and community partnerships.
- Represent Heart House at community events, networking functions, and speaking engagements to expand visibility and influence.
Team Leadership & Collaboration
- Supervise, coach, and evaluate two direct reports to ensure professional growth and strong performance.
- Collaborate with the Executive Director on strategic planning and organizational priorities.
- Partner with program staff to communicate program impact to donors and funders effectively.
Data & Systems Management
- Oversee donor database management to ensure accurate and timely records.
- Utilize data analytics to track fundraising progress and guide decision-making.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business, communications, or related field (master’s preferred).
- History of progressive fundraising experience, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
- Proven success in securing major gifts, managing sponsorships, and writing grants.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Proficiency with donor management systems.
- Commitment to Heart House’s mission and to advancing equity for refugee, immigrant, and other under-resourced children and families in Vickery Meadow.
Work Environment & Benefits
- Full-time position with a flexible work schedule.
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus benefits including health insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
- Dynamic, mission-driven team environment with a strong culture of collaboration and community impact.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to shendricks@hearthousedallas.org with the subject line “Development Director – [Your Name].” Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.