Position Overview
The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy is a non-profit organization that leads the conservation and protection of the Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a 31,000-acre Sonoran Desert preserve in Scottsdale, Arizona. The Director of Development (DoD) leads the Conservancy’s efforts to generate private support, designing and managing all fundraising strategies to advance the organization’s mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all fundraising revenue targets, including membership, major giving, and fundraising events.
• Develops creative strategies to overcome challenges.
• Implement and maintain the Strategic Development Plan.
• Ensure accurate fundraising forecasts and steady growth through transparent monthly reporting.
• Share fundraising progress updates in meetings with the Leadership Team, staff, Board of Directors, and committees as required.
• Work with the CEO and Board to identify, prioritize, and cultivate donors, with an emphasis on major gifts over $10,000.
• Collaborate with leadership to create actionable strategies for major giving prospects.
• Lead prospect tracking meetings to review donor cultivation and next steps.
• Support the CEO and Board in engaging prospects and donors, arranging meetings, tours, and preparing reports, promotional materials, proposals, and presentations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with major individual, corporate, and foundation donors.
• Expand the planned giving program, focusing on “blended gifts” that combine current and planned contributions.
• Support Development Managers in growing annual fundraising, grant programs, and sponsorships.
• Train and encourage board committee members to reach revenue goals, providing the necessary administrative support.
• Participate in regular Leadership Team meetings to stay informed, align messaging, optimize resources, and contribute to long-term planning.

Personnel Management

• Lead the Development team, including recruiting, onboarding, and professional growth.
• Set annual goals for direct reports and monitor performance through clear metrics.

Fund Development

• Ensure the development of compelling electronic and print materials for fundraising priorities.
• Work with staff to review partnerships and pursue joint funding opportunities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Minimum of 3 years as a non-profit Development Director, or 5 years as a senior development manager with a $1 million+ portfolio.
• Strong multitasking, organizational, and prioritization skills with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines.
• Positive attitude under pressure.
• Experience working with a broad range of individuals including partners, volunteers, staff, board members, and donors.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent written communication skills.
• Ability to pass a standard background check.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience with Virtuous or similar CRM systems.
• Proven record of collaborating with volunteers.
• Appreciation of the natural world.

Working Conditions

• Work is primarily virtual or in an office setting, with some duties performed offsite or outdoors.
• Local travel may be required for site visits, conferences, or partner meetings, with mileage reimbursed according to federal rates.
• All staff members are expected to foster a culture of respect, teamwork, and collaboration.
• Adaptability, creativity, and passion for the environment and the Conservancy are essential.