Development Director, School Engagement

Since our founding in 1924, we've cut cardiovascular disease deaths in half, but there is still so much more to do. To overcome today’s biggest health challenges and accelerate this progress, we need passionate individuals like you. Join our movement, be part of the progress, and help ensure a healthier future for all. You matter, and so does the impact you can make with us.

About the role

This is a full-time, field-based position that requires extensive travel across Eastern Nebraska and Western Iowa. Flexibility in working hours, including early mornings and evenings, is essential to accommodate the needs of schools and events. In this fast-paced fundraising and sales role, you will engage K-12 students with the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge, working with hundreds of schools to promote physical activity and learning. The role also involves extensive data management, continuously updating account information in our customer relationship management (CRM) databases and Microsoft Office products.

Responsibilities

• Meet an overall fundraising goal of $350,000 (participant income and corporate sponsorship) through exceptional volunteer recruitment and engagement, customer service, and account management—all while motivating kids to take their health to heart.
• Recruit and engage students through schools and districts in life-saving initiatives including Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge programs.
• Implement strategies and initiatives to fully engage students through classroom challenges, activities, and student assemblies (in-person and digital experiences).
• Develop and cultivate relationships on an ongoing basis with teachers, principals, and district superintendents.
• Establish and maintain outstanding customer service with volunteers and other collaborators, including detailed planning and kick-off meetings to set schools up for success.
• Manage and continuously update account information within our customer relationship management (CRM) databases and Microsoft products.
• Handle high-volume account management, regularly working with 5-10 schools each day—in-person where possible or online/by phone.

Requirements

• 3 years of relevant experience in fundraising, sales, or other related experience.
• Ability to do daily local travel; requires access to reliable transportation at all times on an immediate basis.
• University/College degree or equivalent experience.
• Ability to work productively and efficiently from a home office and in the field consistent with the Association's flexible work arrangements policy.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and communicate proactively.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, "we can do this" environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and the ability to efficiently manage and report on data using CRMs are essential.
• Ability to lift and/or move large objects (such as boxes); heavier items may require breaking them down into smaller components or requesting additional assistance.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including early mornings and evenings, to effectively engage with schools and manage events.

Preferred Skills

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

Benefits

• Compensation: Competitive base salary with regular market reviews. This position is incentive-eligible based on achieving certain targets.
• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. Employee assistance program, wellness program, telemedicine, and medical consultation.
• Retirement: Robust retirement program with employer match and automatic contribution.
• Professional Development: Access to Heart U, an award-winning corporate university with over 100,000 resources. Opportunities to join Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) or participate in mentoring programs.
• Work-Life Harmonization: Minimum of 16 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) per year for new employees, increasing with seniority. 12 paid holidays, including several days off at the end of the year.
• Tuition Assistance: Financial support for employees pursuing further education and career development related to their current or potential future roles.