Director of Development

SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Chief Regional Officer & Executive Director, the Development Director leads the growth and sustainability of Junior Achievement of Southern California fundraising in the Orange County (OC) region while providing strategic support to fundraising initiatives in the Inland Empire (IE) (approximately 30%).

This position oversees corporate and individual giving efforts; manages revenue for key experiential learning initiatives, including the Experiential Learning Center JA Finance Park Pop-Up, and drives donor stewardship, corporate development, and new business pipeline growth. The Development Director plays a critical role in cultivating partnerships that advance JA’s mission of inspiring and preparing young people to succeed in a global economy.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of comprehensive fundraising strategies for the Orange County region, supporting annual revenue and growth goals.

• Provide strategic partnership and support to Inland Empire fundraising initiatives (approximately 30% of portfolio).

• Cultivate, solicit, and steward corporate, foundation, and individual donors to deepen engagement and secure multi-year support.

• Develop tailored engagement strategies to secure sponsorships, donations, and partnerships for JA programs and experiential learning initiatives.

• Serve as the Revenue Lead for the Experiential Learning Center JA Finance Park Pop-Up, ensuring strong sponsor retention, activation, and sustainability.

• Build and manage a robust donor pipeline, focusing on both new business development and strategic renewals.

• Collaborate closely with the regional team and board members to align strategies and ensure shared success across OC and IE.

• Support capital campaign and storefront sponsorship development, including donor recognition and experiential engagement opportunities.

• Represent JA OCIE at corporate, civic, and community events to expand visibility and network of supporters.

• Other duties as assigned.

Skills & Qualifications

• Proven success in nonprofit fundraising and corporate partnership development.

• Strong organizational, strategic planning, and relationship management skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, including donor presentations and proposals.

• Proficiency with CRM systems (BCRM or similar) and data-driven fundraising approaches.

• Detail-oriented and results-driven with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.

• Collaborative, innovative, and mission-driven professional with a high degree of integrity.

Location & Employment

• Primary Location: Orange County Office (Costa Mesa, CA).

• Regional Scope: Approximately 70% Orange County / 30% Inland Empire.

• Full-Time, In-Person, Exempt Position

• Salary Range: $85,000–$95,000 annually (commensurate with experience).

• Reports to: Chief Regional Officer & Executive Director.