Head of Development

Accountabilities: Design, lead, and execute a comprehensive multi-year national development strategy aimed at raising more than $20 million annually. Cultivate, manage, and strengthen relationships with major individual donors, family foundations, institutional funders, and strategic partners, securing significant multi-year commitments. Develop and oversee fundraising campaigns, philanthropic initiatives, and engagement strategies that increase organizational visibility and expand national reach. Lead, mentor, and grow the Development team, including the Director of Partnerships and Development Manager, establishing clear performance objectives and fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and excellence. Represent the organization as a senior ambassador in donor meetings, public events, strategic partnerships, and other external engagements. Build and optimize donor relationship management systems, including CRM infrastructure, donor segmentation, automation, reporting, and performance tracking. Work closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams, including Finance, Marketing, Operations, and Programs, to align fundraising priorities with organizational objectives and operational needs. Oversee donor communications and impact reporting, ensuring contributions are clearly connected to measurable food rescue, distribution, and community outcomes. Partner with the CEO and senior leadership team on long-term financial planning, fundraising forecasts, growth opportunities, and organizational sustainability. Monitor and analyze fundraising performance indicators, identify opportunities for improvement, adapt strategies based on data, and communicate progress to leadership and the Board of Directors. Requirements 5–7 years of fundraising and development experience, with a demonstrated track record of securing major six- and seven-figure donations. Proven experience building, managing, and developing high-performing fundraising or development teams. Strong organizational, strategic planning, and execution skills, with the ability to consistently achieve ambitious fundraising targets. Demonstrated experience partnering with a CEO, Executive Director, or senior leadership team to advance fundraising strategies and cultivate high-value relationships. Extensive experience managing major individual donors, institutional funders, and foundation partnerships. Exceptional interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence, with the ability to establish authentic, meaningful, and long-term relationships with donors and stakeholders. Strong knowledge of donor management systems and CRM platforms, including database structure, segmentation, automation, reporting, and relationship tracking. Ability to define, monitor, and interpret key fundraising metrics to inform strategic decisions and improve performance. Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to translate organizational impact into compelling stories that inspire donor engagement and investment. Entrepreneurial mindset, initiative, adaptability, and a hands-on approach to problem-solving in a fast-paced, evolving environment. Strong organizational abilities, sound judgment, and the capacity to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a high level of execution. Genuine commitment to social impact, community development, food security, and reducing food waste. Additional assets: Previous experience working in a startup, high-growth organization, or culturally recognized brand. Familiarity with marketing, communications, and brand-building strategies, particularly how fundraising initiatives connect with broader organizational visibility. Experience developing compelling impact narratives and donor-facing communications that strengthen philanthropic engagement. Key success factors: Ability to communicate with clarity, confidence, warmth, and authenticity while representing the organization externally. Comfort working with ambitious, mission-driven teams in an entrepreneurial environment. A proactive, solutions-oriented approach, with the ability to identify opportunities and turn ideas into actionable initiatives. Resilience and adaptability when priorities shift, combined with strong organizational discipline and follow-through. A strong sense of ownership, responsibility, and commitment to creating meaningful outcomes for underserved communities. Creativity, strategic thinking, and the confidence to take on new challenges and build innovative fundraising approaches. Benefits Annual Salary: $140,000–$185,000, depending on experience and qualifications. Unlimited paid time off (PTO). Fully covered medical, dental, and vision insurance, with 100% of premiums paid by the employer. 401(k) retirement plan with company matching. Paid family leave. Flexible work-from-home arrangements. Employee stipends. Wellness stipend to support health and fitness expenses. Technology reimbursements, including cell phone and internet expenses. Professional development and learning opportunities. Onsite team retreats and gatherings. Branded merchandise and additional team perks. Remote working environment with national travel as needed.