Development Director, School Engagement

About the role

Since our founding in 1924, we've cut cardiovascular disease deaths in half, but there is still much more to do. Join our movement to help ensure a healthier future for all by working as a Development Director, School Engagement, covering schools in Loudoun, Fairfax, VA; Montgomery, Prince George's, MD; and DC. This is a full-time, field-based position requiring extensive travel across these areas. Flexibility in working hours, including early mornings and evenings, is essential to accommodate school and event needs. The role is home-office-based with daily travel within your territory.

In this fast-paced fundraising and sales position, you will engage K-12 students with the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge, promoting physical activity and learning across hundreds of schools. The role also involves extensive data management, including updating account information in our CRM databases and Microsoft Office products.

Responsibilities

• Meet an overall fundraising goal of $350K (including participant income and corporate sponsorship) through volunteer recruitment, engagement, customer service, and account management.
• Recruit and engage students through schools and districts in life-saving initiatives, including the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge programs.
• Implement strategies to fully engage students through classroom challenges, activities, and student assemblies (both in-person and digital).
• Develop and cultivate ongoing relationships with teachers, principals, and district superintendents.
• Provide outstanding customer service to volunteers and collaborators, including detailed planning and kick-off meetings to set schools up for success.
• Manage and continuously update account information within CRM databases and Microsoft products.
• Handle high-volume account management, working with 5-10 schools daily—either in-person, online, or by phone.

Qualifications

• 3 years of relevant experience in fundraising, sales, or a related field.
• Ability to travel daily within the territory; requires access to reliable transportation at all times.
• University/College degree or equivalent experience.
• Ability to work productively and efficiently from a home office and in the field.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and communicate proactively.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and CRM databases for data management and reporting.
• Ability to lift and/or move large objects (e.g., boxes), with the expectation of breaking down heavier items or requesting assistance.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including early mornings and evenings, to engage with schools and manage events.

Preferred skills:

• Experience managing and cultivating volunteer relationships.
• Knowledge of corporate and community networks.

Pay

The expected pay range is $61,500 to $80,000. Pay is commensurate with experience, and geographic differentials may apply. This position is incentive-eligible based on achieving specific targets.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary with regular market reviews and adjustments.
• Performance and recognition programs, including annual salary planning and incentive eligibility.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Robust retirement program with employer match and automatic contribution.
• Employee assistance program, wellness program, telemedicine, and medical consultation.
• Professional development opportunities, including Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), mentoring programs, and access to Heart U, the Association’s online university with over 100,000 resources.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) starting at a minimum of 16 days per year for new employees, increasing with seniority, plus 12 paid holidays annually.
• Tuition assistance for career development related to current or future roles within the organization.