Director, Development Jobs

Explore Director, Development opportunities on Ladders, where professionals can find vetted roles paying $100,000 or more. Directors of Development lead fundraising and advancement programs, build relationships with donors and partners, and help organizations turn strategic priorities into sustainable support.

What Does a Director of Development Do?

A Director of Development typically sets fundraising goals and plans, oversees campaigns and grant initiatives, and cultivates relationships with individual, corporate, and institutional supporters. Depending on the organization, the role may also guide donor communications, sponsorships, planned giving, special events, and development operations. Directors often manage staff and collaborate with executive leadership, finance, marketing, and program teams.

Skills and Qualifications

Employers commonly look for a record of meeting fundraising targets, strong relationship-building and communication skills, and the ability to develop and execute strategic plans. Experience with donor databases, budgets, campaign reporting, and team leadership may be important. Requirements vary by organization; some roles seek experience in a specific sector, such as nonprofits, higher education, healthcare, arts, or advocacy.

Director, Development Salary and Career Outlook

Compensation depends on factors such as organization type, location, scope of responsibility, and experience. Ladders focuses on vetted professional opportunities with salaries of $100,000 or more, making it easier to explore senior development roles at that compensation level. Career paths may lead to vice president of development, chief development officer, or other executive leadership positions.

Find Director, Development Jobs on Ladders

Browse Director, Development listings to compare leadership opportunities and find roles that fit your background and goals. Use filters to narrow your search by location, industry, and other preferences, and review each listing for its responsibilities and qualifications.

1,000+

Director, Development Jobs

Average Salary: $133,714

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Top companies hiring for Director, Development

Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated American Heart Association Harrison and Star Bain & Company UHS Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc HMC Architects Brookdale Corporate Brookfield Properties WESCO International Hines HDR Elevance Health University of Miami Cushman & Wakefield

Top similar job titles to Director, Development

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Top cities hiring for Director, Development

New York, NY jobs San Francisco, CA jobs Los Angeles, CA jobs Washington, DC jobs Dallas, TX jobs Chicago, IL jobs Boston, MA jobs Houston, TX jobs Philadelphia, PA jobs Atlanta, GA jobs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does a Director of Development do?
A Director of Development leads an organization's fundraising strategy and activities. Responsibilities may include managing campaigns, cultivating donors, pursuing grants and sponsorships, overseeing development staff, and reporting on fundraising results.
What qualifications are needed for Director, Development jobs?
Qualifications vary, but employers often seek fundraising experience, a history of meeting revenue goals, excellent communication and relationship-building skills, strategic planning ability, and experience managing teams or development operations.
How much do Director, Development jobs pay?
Pay varies by employer, location, sector, and role scope. Ladders features vetted professional jobs paying $100,000 or more, including eligible Director, Development opportunities.
Where do Directors of Development work?
Directors of Development work across organizations that rely on fundraising or external support, including nonprofits, universities, healthcare systems, cultural institutions, foundations, and advocacy organizations.
What roles can follow a Director of Development position?
Experienced Directors of Development may advance to vice president of development, chief development officer, executive director, or other senior leadership roles, depending on the organization and their experience.