Regional Director, Growth & Philanthropy (Rochester)

Make-A-Wish Metro New York and Western New York; New York (NY); On-site; USD 88,000 - 94,000; Full time

Job summary

Make-A-Wish Metro New York & Western New York Chapter seeks a Regional Director of Development & Philanthropy for the Rochester region. This leader guides major gifts, corporate partnerships, foundations, events, and community engagement to support life-changing wishes for children.

The role requires strategic oversight, donor cultivation, and collaboration with teams across Buffalo, NYC, and national chapters, reporting to the Chief Development Officer.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; CFRE preferred.
• 10+ years of fundraising, nonprofit leadership, or related experience.
• Proven success securing major gifts and managing donor relationships.
• Experience leading teams, volunteers, boards, and cross-functional partners.

Responsibilities

• Lead regional fundraising strategy and revenue growth across Rochester, Buffalo, and NYC markets.
• Oversee major gifts, annual giving, foundation grants, and special events.
• Establish donor-centered relationships to grow philanthropic investment.
• Manage regional office operations, budgets, and compliance with policies.
• Partner with leadership, volunteers, and community stakeholders to advance Make-A-Wish visibility.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Relationship-building

Strategic planning

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree

CFRE preferred

Tools

Salesforce CRM

Microsoft 365

Job description

Make-A-Wish Metro New York & Western New York Chapter seeks a Regional Director of Development & Philanthropy for the Rochester region. This leader guides major gifts, corporate partnerships, foundations, events, and community engagement to support life-changing wishes for children.

The role requires strategic oversight, donor cultivation, and collaboration with teams across Buffalo, NYC, and national chapters, reporting to the Chief Development Officer.