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Director of Philanthropy

Lutheran Services in Iowa
Des Moines, IA Full Time
POSTED ON 11/24/2025 CLOSED ON 1/8/2026

What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Philanthropy position at Lutheran Services in Iowa?

Are you looking to make a meaningful and important impact through your professional work? Would you enjoy securing philanthropic support to bring hope, healing and wholeness to thousands of children, families and individuals?

For over 150 years, Lutheran Services in Iowa (LSI)has a legacy of compassionate service to vulnerable people whose lives have been changed in countless ways. This impact and legacy is made possible by the commitment of dedicated and competent staff who partner with individuals, churches, and other funders and ministry partners who have mutual respect and purpose.

LSI seeks a competent and mission-focused fundraising professional to serve as a full-time Director of Philanthropy based in its Des Moines office.

Mission

Lutheran Services in Iowa responds to the love of Jesus Christ through compassionate service.

DUTIES

The Director of Philanthropy will develop and implement strategies to identify, cultivate and strengthen relationships to ensure ongoing financial support for LSI. Successfully solicit major gifts from donors and prospects in support of the agency mission. Work collaboratively with vice president of philanthropy and other team members to strategically enhance financial outcomes for LSI and ensure continuing growth and success of the agency's philanthropy and church relations efforts.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree and minimum of two years experience in development (professional fundraising experience) or related field such as sales or marketing. Preferred applicants will have a Bachelor's degree and five plus years of development or related field experience, including major gift experience. Demonstrated ability to build relationships with individuals, corporations and congregations to further expand philanthropic support to assure LSI's mission.

Key Qualities/Competencies

Passion to advance and unleash philanthropic support for a great mission

Great ability to build and maintain relationships with donors, churches and other funders.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to communicate persuasively and effectively in individual and group settings. Has developed strong active listening skills

Knowledge and practice in individual donor development, including success in securing major and planned gifts. Capital and/or endowment campaign experience a plus.

Successful Experience Leading Projects And Other Important Initiatives

Results oriented professional with great goal and time management skills; self-driven and takes initiative to achieve or exceed goals

Creative problem-solver who seeks new and innovative solutions

Additional Qualities And Characteristics

Has personal and professional integrity and great work ethic

Looking to make a difference in serving some of the most vulnerable children, families and individuals across Iowa

Committed to exemplify LSI's values of excellence, respect, advocacy, and stewardship

Has the ability to travel overnight and be on the road 50% of the time during the week.

Works collaboratively and positively with others in a team-based environment. Willing to take on special projects to help the team and agency

Demonstrated commitment to lifelong learning and professional development in field(s) of expertise and in general

Requires: Acceptable driving record, valid driver's license and vehicle insurance to meet agency requirements. Ability to pass extensive background checks.

LSI offers a competitive salary and benefit package including paid time off, health, dental, life, and vision insurance, 401(k).

LSI promises a challenging and exciting workplace. Consider joining our team of professionals who are People focused, Results driven.

Salary.com Estimation for Director of Philanthropy in Des Moines, IA
$135,414 to $180,397
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