Development Director

The Opportunity

We’re looking for a Development Director to build, scale, and diversify our philanthropic revenue. This is a rare opportunity to join a thriving and values-driven organization at a pivotal moment of growth. The Development Director will lead multi-channel fundraising, deepen relationships with major donors, and foster a strong culture of philanthropy across our global team. You’ll work directly with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to design an ambitious path forward and then deliver on it.

This is AIA’s first dedicated development hire. The role will initially focus on both strategic leadership and hands-on execution across multiple fundraising streams, with the opportunity to shape and grow a team as resources allow.

What You’ll Do

• Design and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy across major donors, foundations, recurring givers, campaigns, and new revenue streams (legacy, stock, endowment).
• Personally manage and cultivate a portfolio of major donors, with a goal of growing and strengthening six-figure and above giving.
• Build systems for scale, optimize donor CRM usage, create dashboards and KPIs, and track the full donor journey.
• Explore and expand funding pipelines, including corporate partnerships, foundations, grassroots campaigns, a National Council, and our Scholarship Society (monthly recurring donors).
• Equip staff and Board with tools, training, and confidence to support fundraising efforts.
• Support strong stewardship and donor communications through personal outreach, events, impact reports, and more.
• Domestic travel as needed for donor meetings, events, and fundraising opportunities (20% of your time)

In Your First Year, Success Will Look Like:

• Designing and launching a clear multi-year fundraising strategy.
• Building and managing a robust major donor portfolio.
• Establishing strong fundraising systems and KPIs to track progress.
• Growing overall revenue significantly and sustainably (targets to be set collaboratively with the ED).

Who You Are

You are both visionary and tactical—equally comfortable building a strategic fundraising plan and making donor calls. You thrive in fast-paced, mission-driven environments and take initiative to get things done. You’re collaborative, ambitious, and deeply respectful of the communities we serve.

We’re Looking for Someone Who

• Has a proven track record of securing significant (six- and seven-figure) gifts
• Brings a strategic mindset and a drive to grow revenue sustainably
• Is an exceptional relationship-builder, storyteller, and communicator
• Leads with humility, humor, and integrity
• Is comfortable with CRM systems, data dashboards, and tracking outcomes
• Thrives in fast-moving, growing organization
• Is excited to help shape the future of a global nonprofit with an unconventional edge

Bonus Points For

• Experience fundraising in global development, education, or East Africa
• Familiarity with Bloomerang, FundraiseUp, and Monday.com
• Prior experience at a startup nonprofit or during a major growth phase
• Experience coaching or mentoring others in fundraising