Director, Development

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR

The Director, Development will lead the strategy and execution of MusiCares’ major gift programs. You will focus on MusiCares’ efforts to grow, steward, and sustain high-level philanthropic support from individual donors, with a focus on gifts of $25,000 and above. You will be responsible for cultivating and managing a portfolio of high-net-worth donors and prospects, developing tailored engagement strategies, and closing major and planned gifts to support MusiCares’ programs and initiatives. You bring deep experience in major gifts fundraising, exceptional relationship-building skills, and a strong appreciation for MusiCares’ mission.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

Portfolio Development & Fundraising Execution

• Manage and grow a portfolio of major donors and prospects nationwide.
• Develop customized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies for each donor.
• Personally solicit major gifts ranging from $25,000 to $1,000,000 multi-year commitments.
• Work closely with the Sr. Managing Director of Development to engage in high-level donor meetings and strategy sessions.

Relationship Management & Stewardship

• Build deep, authentic relationships with donors that align their philanthropic goals with MusiCares’ priorities.
• Ensure personalized follow-up, reporting, and recognition for all major donors.
• Coordinate meaningful donor engagement and stewardship experiences, delivered both in-person and online.

Strategy & Management

• Design and implement strategies to broaden the donor base by engaging high-net-worth individuals and industries beyond the music sector.
• Identify and qualify new major gift prospects through research, networking, and leveraging existing relationships.
• Develop compelling proposals, pitches for support, and donor communications.
• Manage one team member, providing mentorship, feedback and guidance for the Development Manager overseeing annual giving.

Tracking & Reporting

• Maintain accurate records of donor interactions and pipeline activity in the Salesforce CRM.
• Regularly track, analyze, and report progress toward fundraising goals.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree required. CFRE certification a plus.
• 7 to 10 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising with multiple years focused on major gifts.
• A proven track record of closing gifts at the $25,000+ level with both six-and seven-figure successes.
• Salesforce experience preferred.
• A strong network and ability to connect with high-net-worth individuals.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to convey passion and urgency.
• A strategic thinker who is goal orientated.
• Exceptional relationship management and emotional intelligence.
• Ability to take a collaborative and team-oriented approach.
• A high level of discretion and confidentiality.
• Availability to travel and work evenings and weekends as needed.