Development Senior Director

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Development Senior Director to join our team in Dallas, TX. The ideal candidate builds trust quickly, inspires action, and thrives on ambitious goals. You will lead a high-performing team, cultivate influential relationships, and help shape the future of a mission that changes lives by making every eligible child’s wish come true. You are driven by results, fueled by meaningful connections, and confident leading through influence. This role is more than fundraising—it’s about creating trust, inspiring belief, developing talent, and uniting people around a common purpose.

Who We Are

Make-A-Wish North Texas has granted over 14,000 wishes since 1982 and serves 161 counties across Texas. We are 100% locally funded and guided by cultural values including Freedom & Responsibility, Community, Unwavering Commitment, Fearless Curiosity, and Celebration. Our mission is to create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic major gifts plan to meet and exceed annual revenue goals.
• Manage a portfolio of 150 high-capacity donors and prospects at the $25,000+ level.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and development to a fundraising team, fostering a high-performance culture centered on accountability, collaboration, employee engagement, and continuous growth.
• Partner with the Chief Development Officer, CEO, and key volunteer leaders to strengthen relationships and expand philanthropic support across the region.
• Align major giving strategy with broader development initiatives (annual giving, campaigns, grants).
• Lead and participate in donor solicitations, including preparing proposals and presentations.
• Represent Make-A-Wish North Texas as a brand ambassador at fundraising events and in the community to deepen engagement and broaden support.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a discipline that develops strong written and verbal communication skills, or equivalent professional experience.
• 7 or more years of progressive fundraising experience, with a focus on major gifts.
• Strong relationship-building and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage a donor portfolio and meet or exceed revenue goals.
• 3 or more years of experience managing others.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams to meet or exceed revenue goals.
• Proven track record of securing 5-, 6-, and 7-figure gifts.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with board members and senior executives in fundraising.
• Background in nonprofit or mission-driven organizations.
• Familiarity with donor databases/CRMs.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and education.
• Comprehensive benefits package including healthcare, vision, dental, disability and life insurance.
• 401k company match.
• Paid time off and holidays.