Fundraising Director, Development

About the Role

The Director of Development is accountable for the performance and success of fundraising events and strategies across the Northeastern New York (NENY) chapter to meet revenue goals. Reporting to the Vice President of Development, this leader mobilizes and manages staff and volunteers to produce the chapter’s special events and fundraising initiatives, including the Walk to End Alzheimer’s and the annual Gala. The role involves coaching and inspiring teams, developing community‑engagement strategies aligned with the Association’s strategic plan, and leading the planning and execution of the chapter’s flagship events.

Responsibilities

• Mobilize and manage staff and volunteers to deliver chapter events and fundraising initiatives on national timelines.
• Lead the planning, execution, and post‑event analysis of the annual Gala, including recruitment and management of an Executive Leadership Planning Committee.
• Develop and implement community‑engagement strategies that align with the Association’s strategic plan and drive measurable revenue results.
• Coach, mentor, and recognize professional development staff and volunteer leaders to achieve fundraising goals.
• Identify, cultivate, and maintain relationships with key community leaders and C‑Suite corporate partners.
• Oversee budget development, financial tracking, and reporting for events and fundraising programs.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with other chapter leaders to build capacity and support major and planned gift pipelines.
• Represent the chapter at meetings, special events, and community functions.
• Travel within the chapter territory and occasionally overnight to support events and partnership development.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in sales, marketing, or a related field (CFRE is a plus but not required).
• 5+ years of proven leadership experience in peer‑to‑peer, fundraising, or diversified fundraising programs.
• Experience with mass‑market events such as the Walk to End Alzheimer’s (preferred).
• Experience planning and executing relationship events such as galas (preferred).
• Demonstrated ability to analyze data to increase productivity and enhance results.
• Successful track record of recruiting, managing, and coaching fundraising staff and volunteers.
• Strong networking skills with a history of cultivating C‑Suite community and corporate leaders.
• Experience in strategic implementation planning, budget development, and management.
• Valid driver’s license, proof of vehicle insurance, and access to a reliable personal vehicle.

Skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Attention to detail and solid project‑management skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides), and Zoom.
• Experience with internet and database/fundraising applications, preferably Luminate (Convio).
• Ability to work cross‑functionally and build organizational capacity.
• Flexibility to work evenings, early mornings, and occasional weekends.

Pay

Salary range: $82,000 – $90,000.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Short‑ and long‑term disability insurance.
• Life insurance and long‑term care insurance.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Generous paid time off, 12 annual holidays, and paid family leave.
• Annual Cultural & Heritage Day and Volunteer Day of choice.
• Gold‑standard 401(k) retirement plan.
• Additional benefits for full‑time employees (37.5 hours/week): School Visitation Day and Elder Care Facility Day of choice.

Schedule

Full‑time position based on a 37.5‑hour work week. Requires a flexible schedule, including evenings, early mornings, occasional weekends, and travel within the chapter territory.

Location

Cohoes, NY.