Strategic Development Director - Major Gifts & Growth

Harlem Children's Zone; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 230,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

No cost health insurance

Annual performance bonuses

Deferred bonus programs

Paid time off

Employee referral bonus

Life Insurance

Disability (short & long-term)

Additional voluntary benefits

Wellness discounts

Commuter benefits

Financial wellness perks

Discounts on travel & entertainment

Job summary

Harlem Children's Zone is seeking a Managing Director, Development to lead and evolve our fundraising strategy and donor programs. Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, you will guide three directors overseeing Major Gifts, Institutional Giving, and Development Operations, while building strong donor relationships and a high-performing team.

You will champion strategic fundraising initiatives, partner with senior leadership, and drive long-term growth to support the organization's mission

Qualifications

• Proven track record in major gifts and donor strategy.
• Experience leading and developing high-performing teams.
• Experience partnering with boards and governance discussions.
• Strong strategic, analytical, and business acumen.
• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• 7–10 years of fundraising experience, including 3–5 years leading teams.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership to Major Gifts, Institutional Giving, and Development Operations.
• Partner with the Chief Development Officer to create an integrated fundraising strategy.
• Manage a portfolio of major donors and high-capacity prospects.
• Support trustee engagement and prepare board materials.
• Drive cross-vertical collaboration and disciplined fundraising execution.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to align fundraising with organizational priorities.
• Create donor-centered proposals and stewardship materials.
• Advise the Chief Development Officer and serve on the senior leadership team.
• Foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.

Skills

Major gifts

Donor strategy

Leadership

Strategic planning

Stakeholder engagement

CRM analytics

Education

Bachelor's degree required

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Raiser’s Edge

Job description

Harlem Children's Zone is seeking a Managing Director, Development to lead and evolve our fundraising strategy and donor programs. Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, you will guide three directors overseeing Major Gifts, Institutional Giving, and Development Operations, while building strong donor relationships and a high-performing team.

You will champion strategic fundraising initiatives, partner with senior leadership, and drive long-term growth to support the organization's mission