Development Director

Job Description

Job Description

Why This Role Matters

The Development Director serves as the chief fundraising strategist and leader for Fosterful, responsible for developing and executing comprehensive development strategies to meet organizational goals and advance our mission. This senior leadership role requires a seasoned professional who can think strategically while managing day-to-day fundraising operations, cultivate major donor relationships, oversee grant management, and lead fundraising events and campaigns. The ideal candidate is a passionate advocate for children in foster care with proven success in nonprofit fundraising and the ability to inspire others to support our cause.

How You'll Contribute

Strategic Leadership & Planning

• Develop and implement comprehensive, multi-year fundraising strategies aligned with organizational goals and growth plans

• Lead annual fundraising goal-setting process in partnership with the CFO and create strategic plans to achieve revenue targets

• Partner with Executive Director and Board of Directors as a thought leader in philanthropic strategy

• Analyze fundraising data and market trends to inform strategic decision-making

• Oversee all fundraising activities and manage development team performance

Major Donor Relations & Stewardship

• Identify, cultivate, and solicit major gift prospects ($10K+ annually)

• Develop and execute donor engagement strategies to increase retention and upgrade giving

• Conduct donor visits, presentations, and stewardship activities

• Manage donor portfolio and maintain comprehensive contact records

• Create personalized cultivation strategies for high-capacity donors

Grant Management & Foundation Relations

• In partnership with Grant Specialist, research and identify foundation and corporate funding opportunities

• Oversee the preparation and submittal of compelling grant proposals and reports

• Manage grant compliance and reporting requirements

• Build and maintain relationships with foundation program officers

• Oversee grant pipeline and deadlines management

Campaign & Event Leadership

• Plan and execute annual fundraising campaigns and signature events (annual gala, GiveMore 24, EOY giving, etc)

• Lead special initiatives and targeted appeals as needed

• Coordinate with marketing team on fundraising communications and materials

• Manage event logistics, sponsorships, and donor recognition

• Implement equitable fundraising practices across all activities

Team Leadership & Development

• Supervise and mentor development staff, including Grant Specialist and Marketing and Communications Manager

• Provide guidance on donor relations, grant writing, and fundraising best practices

• Collaborate with program staff to create compelling case statements and impact stories

• Lead professional development opportunities for development team

• Foster a culture of collaboration, inclusion, and ethical fundraising practices

Reporting & Administration

• Maintain accurate donor database (Givebutter) and generate regular progress reports

• Provide monthly and annual fundraising reports to Executive Director, CFO and Board

• Manage development budget and monitor return on investment

• Ensure compliance with fundraising regulations and ethical standards

• Represent Fosterful at community events and networking opportunities

What Makes You a Great Fit

• Bachelor's degree in Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Communications, or related field, or equivalent work experience

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in fundraising, development, or related role, with nonprofit experience strongly preferred

• Proven track record of successful major gift fundraising and donor management

• Experience with annual giving programs and planned giving

• Strong grant writing abilities with demonstrated success securing foundation and government funding

• Excellent organizational, project management, and leadership skills

• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills with ability to present to diverse audiences

• Proficiency in fundraising software and CRM systems (experience with GiveButter preferred)

• Knowledge of digital marketing tools including LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and MailChimp

• Proficiency with project management applications such as Instrumentl, Monday.com and Google Office Suite

• Experience working collaboratively with boards, volunteers, and diverse teams

• Commitment to Fosterful's mission and values, including respect and inclusivity, collaboration, customer service, and integrity and transparency

• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends for events and donor meetings

• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation for donor visits and community events

Perks & Benefits

• Phone stipend of $50, reimbursed monthly

• Health benefits, optional 401k, optional life and accident insurance

• PTO accrued at 10 hours per month (approx. 3 weeks/yr), plus 9 paid holidays

• Sick leave accrues in accordance with Washington State law- one hour per every 40 hours worked

• COLA raise after one year of service

Who We Are, What We Stand For

Fosterful is a dedicated nonprofit organization committed to supporting children and families in the foster care system. Our mission is to provide essential resources, advocacy, and community support to improve the lives of those we serve.

Fosterful is a nonprofit organization that provides trauma-informed support for children and caregivers experiencing foster care through holistic and customized care plans. Whether assisting during everyday moments or on-call at child welfare offices, we maintain a consistent and caring presence in the lives of foster families through vital resources, enrichment opportunities, on-the-ground support, and personalized case management.

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