Development Director

Connor's Heroes Foundation; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A nonprofit organization in Richmond, Virginia, is seeking a Development Director to lead fundraising efforts and strategic donor engagement. The role involves developing comprehensive fundraising strategies aligned with the organization's mission, managing relationships with corporate partners and major gift prospects, and overseeing signature fundraising events. Strong nonprofit development experience and exceptional communication skills are essential for success in this position.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of nonprofit development or fundraising experience.
• Proficiency with donor database systems.
• Experience managing large-scale fundraising events.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy.
• Cultivate relationships with donors and sponsors.
• Lead the planning and execution of fundraising events.

Skills

Nonprofit development

Fundraising experience

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Storytelling skills

Organizational skills

Tools

DonorPerfect

OneCause

Job description

The Development Director is a passionate, mission-driven leader responsible for advancing the mission of Connor’s Heroes through strategic fundraising and meaningful relationship-building. The Director leads all fundraising efforts, with a strong focus on donor engagement, major gifts, corporate partnerships, and the organization’s signature gala—the Annual Heroes Art Ball. Working closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers, the Development Director ensures sustainable growth while honoring the childhood cancer families we serve.

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy aligned with Connor’s Heroes’ mission and values
• Set and achieve annual revenue goals across multiple fundraising channels
• Use data, donor insights, and storytelling to grow and sustain support

Core Responsibilities

Mission-Driven Fundraising Strategy

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy aligned with Connor’s Heroes’ mission and values
• Set and achieve annual revenue goals across multiple fundraising channels
• Use data, donor insights, and storytelling to grow and sustain support

Donor & Major Gift Relationships

• Cultivate authentic, long-term relationships with individual donors, sponsors, and major gift prospects
• Manage a portfolio of donors with personalized stewardship and engagement
• Work closely with staff on the impact of giving through compelling stories of hope and resilience

Signature Gala & Events

• Help lead the planning and execution of Connor’s Heroes’ signature fundraising gala, The Heroes Art Ball
• Coordinate sponsorships, donor cultivation, guest experience, and post-event stewardship
• Support additional events, including golf tournaments, peer-to-peer campaigns, leadership giving events and community fundraisers

Corporate & Community Partnerships

• Secure and steward corporate donors and work closely with the Community Engagement Manager on new and existing partnerships
• Serve as a public ambassador for Connor’s Heroes at events and in the community

Board Engagement

• Partner with the Executive Director to actively engage the Board of Directors in fundraising
• Support board members and volunteers with tools, coaching, and confidence to share the mission
• Prepare fundraising reports and updates for the Board Development Committee

Development Operations

• Assist with maintaining accurate donor records and reporting through the CRM, DonorPerfect
• Serve as the primary administrator of Connor’s Heroes’ fundraising and event platform, OneCause
• Coordinate donor mailings, invitations, and solicitations
• Track metrics, evaluate outcomes, and continuously refine strategies
• Other duties that may from time to time be assigned by the Executive Director

Skills and Qualifications

• 5+ years of nonprofit development or fundraising experience
• Proficiency with donor database systems (preferably DonorPerfect and OneCause)
• Demonstrated success in major gifts, events, and donor stewardship
• Experience managing large-scale fundraising events
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and storytelling skills
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities
• Comfortable working in a hospital environment when necessary
• Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule, including evening and weekend hours.