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Development Director Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN (NOW HIRING)

Director of Development

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$47K - $73K/yr

In collaboration with the Director of Grant Development and Strategies strategize on funding opportunities to fund priorities established by campus leadership, faculty, and staff. * Coordinate ...

In collaboration with the Director of Grant Development and Strategies strategize on funding opportunities to fund priorities established by campus leadership, faculty, and staff. * Coordinate ...

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Development Director information

See Fort Wayne, IN salary details

$40K

$91.2K

$152.9K

How much do development director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for development director in Fort Wayne, IN is $91,152.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $107,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Development Director do?

A Development Director is responsible for overseeing fundraising and resource development efforts within an organization, typically a nonprofit. They create and implement strategies to secure financial support, manage donor relationships, lead fundraising campaigns, and often supervise development staff. Their goal is to ensure the organization has the funding needed to achieve its mission and objectives. Development Directors also work closely with executive leadership and the board of directors to align fundraising goals with the organization's overall strategy.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Development Directors in large organizations or corporations can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with bonuses, profit sharing, and extensive experience. High-level executive roles such as Chief Development Officer or similar senior leadership positions in nonprofit or corporate sectors also have the potential for such compensation, often requiring advanced skills, strategic planning, and a strong network.

How much money should a development director raise?

A development director's fundraising goals vary depending on the organization size and sector, but they typically aim to raise several million dollars annually for nonprofits or large projects. Success often depends on skills in donor relations, strategic planning, and use of fundraising tools. Setting realistic targets aligned with organizational needs is essential for effective performance.

What Does a Development Director Do?

A development director is responsible for fundraising strategies and initiatives to help promote the business and operations of nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and hospitals. As a development director, your job duties include reaching out to potential benefactors, maintaining relationships with existing donors, devising new strategies for fundraising, and organizing fundraising events. These events may consist of benefit concerts, dinners, parties, and special events. Collaborating with company management is also a regular part of your job. Depending on the organization, your exact duties may vary.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Development Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Development Director, you need expertise in fundraising strategy, donor relations, and nonprofit management, often supported by a relevant degree or CFRE certification. Familiarity with donor management systems (like Salesforce or Raiser’s Edge) and CRM platforms is typically required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills set top performers apart in this role. These abilities are crucial for driving organizational growth, securing funding, and building lasting partnerships essential to the nonprofit’s mission.

How does a Development Director typically collaborate with other departments to achieve organizational goals?

A Development Director frequently works cross-functionally with teams such as marketing, finance, and program management to align fundraising strategies with organizational objectives. This collaboration often involves coordinating on campaigns, sharing donor insights, and ensuring consistent messaging across platforms. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential, as the Development Director serves as a bridge between departments to maximize impact and foster a culture of philanthropy throughout the organization.

What does a Director of Development do?

A Director of Development oversees fundraising efforts, builds relationships with donors, and develops strategies to support an organization’s financial growth. They often manage a team, coordinate campaigns, and utilize tools like CRM systems to track progress, ensuring the organization meets its funding goals.

What is the difference between Development Director vs Fundraising Manager?

AspectDevelopment DirectorFundraising Manager
Primary FocusOversees overall fundraising strategies, donor relations, and development initiativesExecutes specific fundraising campaigns and manages donor outreach
ResponsibilitiesStrategic planning, team leadership, major gift cultivationEvent planning, donor communication, campaign execution
CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s in Nonprofit Management, Fundraising, or related fields; experience in leadership rolesBachelor’s degree; experience in fundraising or development roles often preferred
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, charities, educational institutionsNonprofit organizations, charities, fundraising agencies

The Development Director typically holds a strategic leadership role, overseeing the entire development department and long-term fundraising goals. In contrast, the Fundraising Manager focuses on executing specific campaigns and managing day-to-day donor activities. Both roles require similar credentials and work in similar environments, but the Development Director has broader responsibilities and higher-level oversight.

Is being a BDM a stressful job?

A Business Development Manager (BDM) role can be stressful due to targets, client negotiations, and workload management. Success often depends on strong communication, time management, and resilience, with some roles involving high-pressure environments and performance metrics.
What are the most commonly searched types of Development jobs in Fort Wayne, IN? The most popular types of Development jobs in Fort Wayne, IN are:
What are popular job titles related to Development Director jobs in Fort Wayne, IN? For Development Director jobs in Fort Wayne, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Fort Wayne, IN are hiring for Development Director jobs? Cities near Fort Wayne, IN with the most Development Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Development Director job openings in Fort Wayne, IN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,152 per year, or $43.8 per hour.

Director of Development

Ivy Tech

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

$47K - $73K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

This position is responsible for pursuing fundraising opportunities through major gifts, grassroots, and annual fundraising initiatives through solicitation, cultivation and stewardship of donors and prospective donors to ensure a strong base of ongoing financial support for the College. This position will also be responsible for the planning and execution of special events for the Ivy Tech Foundation and other signature events for the College.
Salary: $47,807 to $73,940 Compensation will be commensurate with the requirements of the position and the candidate's relevant experience and education
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising portfolio by identifying and cultivating major gift prospects, Foundations, and industry partners that will build strong, long-term relationships that align donor interests with College and Foundation priorities.
  • Plan and execute friend-raising and fundraising events that engage donors and raise funds for the College. Activities will include Ivy Tech Day, the annual culinary event A Reason to Taste, the annual Chancellors' Merit Scholarship luncheon, and the faculty/staff giving campaign.
  • Reimagine and host Scholarship donor recognition event.
  • In collaboration with the Director of Grant Development and Strategies strategize on funding opportunities to fund priorities established by campus leadership, faculty, and staff.
  • Coordinate stewardship plans to strengthen donor engagement and retention.
  • Maintain accurate donor records in the Foundation's CRM system and ensure compliance with Foundation policies, IRS regulations, and best practices in fundraising.
  • Participate actively in statewide Foundation initiatives and share best practices with peers across campuses to enhance overall fundraising effectiveness.

The above list of duties is not to be construed as an exhaustive list. Other duties logically associated with the position may be assigned.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree required
  • A minimum of 3-5 years of experience in fundraising, securing gifts and sponsorship, prospect development related to donor research, and event planning.
  • Proven experience in cultivating and managing relationships with executive leaders, donors, and community partners.
  • Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
  • Excellent writing and editing skills with a keen eye for detail.
  • Proficient with CRM/database management systems.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and Teams.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while working independently with minimal daily direct supervision related to assigned tasks.
  • Manage strategic fundraising events and initiatives that may require attendance at events, meetings, etc. outside of normal business hours, which may include evenings and weekends.
  • Ability to travel as needed, including evening and weekend work, throughout the Fort Wayne service area. Occasional travel to Indianapolis and other campuses around the state of Indiana may be required.
  • Physically able to climb ladders, lift up to 30 pounds repeatedly, and support event logistics.
  • Demonstrated commitment to promoting an environment where every individual feels respected and valued.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
Selected candidate for employment will be subject to pre-employment background checks, including criminal history checks, and any offer of employment will be contingent upon that outcome.
Ivy Tech is committed to supporting the well-being, growth, and financial security of our full-time faculty and staff. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:
Health & Wellness
  • Multiple medical plan options paired with a Health Savings Account with a generous employer contribution
  • Dental plan with no-cost preventive services and coverage for orthodontia
  • Vision plan with low-cost exams and allowances for glasses or contact lenses
  • Employee Assistance Program offering no-cost confidential counseling sessions, legal consultations, financial planning consultations, and other resources
  • Wellness program with opportunities to earn $250 in Wellness Rewards
  • Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare (limited purpose) and dependent care

Retirement & Financial Security
  • 10% employer retirement contribution, fully vested after two years
  • Basic life insurance equal to annual salary paid by the College, with optional supplemental coverage
  • Short-term and long-term disability benefits

Educational Benefits
  • Fee remission for employees, spouses, and dependent children
  • Tuition assistance for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs
  • Paid professional development opportunities

Work-Life Balance
  • Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, holidays, and winter recess
  • Flexible work arrangements where available
  • Paid childbirth recovery leave (8 weeks)
  • Paid parental leave (4 weeks)

Additional Perks
  • Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness
  • Additional discounts on gym memberships, transportation, and various retail services

Ivy Tech is proud to offer benefits that support your health, your family, and your future-because when our employees thrive, our students and communities thrive too. For more information on Ivy Tech Benefits, visit https://careers.ivytech.edu/benefits.
Note: Employees who re-hire with the College within 180 days of leaving a full-time position with the College may be eligible for additional benefits depending on their bridged seniority date.
Ivy Tech Community College is an accredited, equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, marital status, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age or veteran status. As required by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Ivy Tech Community College does not discriminate on the basis of sex, including sexual harassment in its educational programs and activities, including employment and admissions. Questions specific to Title IX may be referred to the College's Title IX Coordinator or to the US Department of Education Office of Civil Rights.