AVP, US Philanthropy

About the Organization

Operation Smile is a global nonprofit transforming access to safe surgery and comprehensive care for children and communities worldwide. Working alongside ministries of health, healthcare providers, academic institutions, and local partners, we strengthen health systems through clinical expertise, workforce training, research, and innovation. Supported by dedicated staff, medical and student volunteers, and generous donors, we have helped millions of patients access life-changing cleft surgery and multidisciplinary care since 1982. Today, our work extends beyond surgery to build stronger local healthcare systems, develop the next generation of healthcare professionals, and expand access to safe, high-quality surgical care.

About the Role

The AVP of US Philanthropy directly manages a team responsible for delivering revenue goals of $8.5M+ across Major Gifts and $3.5M+ across Mid-Level and Concierge ($2M+ Mid-Level, $1.5M+ Concierge). This role leads five Development Directors and one Development Manager overseeing four Specialists, along with two Concierge contracts. The position focuses on driving revenue growth, performance, and execution across these channels to support Operation Smile’s goal of doubling revenue by 2031.

The first 12–24 months will focus on accelerating individual giving performance and scaling existing channels. By years three to four, the AVP will help build and integrate a Principal Giving program. This is a highly operational, results-oriented role responsible for meeting revenue targets and executing a structured, performance-driven fundraising strategy across Major Gifts and Mid-Level giving in the United States.

The AVP leads a fully remote team across multiple time zones and requires up to 25% travel, both domestic and international.

Responsibilities

• Own and drive revenue performance across Major Gifts, Mid-Level, and Concierge channels, ensuring teams consistently execute against annual goals, pipeline expectations, and key performance metrics.
• Lead the execution and accountability of the organization’s relationship management fundraising strategy, ensuring consistent donor movement, proactive portfolio management, and strong solicitation activity.
• Track performance weekly against revenue, pipeline, and activity metrics, and drive accountability through portfolio reviews, clear expectations, and consistent follow-up.
• Identify performance gaps and implement solutions at both the individual and program levels.
• Strengthen core practices: pipeline development, donor movement, and CRM discipline.
• Coach the team on donor strategy and operational execution, and support hiring, onboarding, and performance management.
• Partner with the VP on forecasting, planning, and growth strategy, and prioritize operational challenges to maintain efficiency.
• Support the build-out of the Principal Giving program (years three to four) and contribute to select high-net-worth individual relationships.
• Oversee a consistent reporting cadence (bi-monthly, monthly, and quarterly) and translate program strategy into clear, usable donor-facing insights.
• Equip the team with the tools, messaging, and context needed to drive results.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Planned Giving, Prospect Research, Brand, Mass Market, Data & Analytics, Finance, and external vendors to align strategy and improve donor experience.
• Support donor engagement opportunities, including events and site visits.
• Manage team budgets to maximize efficiency and impact.

Requirements

• 12–15 years in leadership fundraising or business development, preferably in a global nonprofit.
• Proven ability to lead teams and deliver against revenue targets.
• Experience managing performance through metrics and coaching teams on strategy, systems, and execution.
• High proficiency in CRM systems (BBCRM preferred) and data-driven decision making.
• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to travel up to 25%, both domestic and international.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• An equivalent combination of education and relevant leadership experience in fundraising or business development will be considered.

Work Environment

This position is fully remote within the United States, leading a fully remote team across multiple time zones. Flexible work arrangements are available, including remote, on-site, and hybrid options. You’ll collaborate with teams across Planned Giving, Prospect Research, Brand, Mass Market, Data & Analytics, and Finance, with opportunities to participate in international medical trips, community outreach, and global health initiatives.

Pay

The anticipated salary range for this position is $135,000 to $150,000, which may vary slightly based on a candidate’s experience, qualifications, and geographic location.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan featuring Safe Harbor and employer matching.
• Comprehensive health, pharmacy, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families.
• 100% paid premiums for life and AD&D insurance.
• Flexible time off plus company-paid holidays.
• Flexible work arrangements, including remote, on-site, and hybrid options.
• Opportunities to participate in international medical trips, community outreach, and global health initiatives.
• Meaningful work contributing to global health and well-being, alongside a mission-driven, globally connected team.