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Developmental Director Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

The Development Director will work closely with the Principal/Head of Schools and an engaged Board of Directors to expand the organization's philanthropic base and advance its mission. About the ...

The Development Director will work closely with the Principal/Head of Schools and an engaged Board of Directors to expand the organization's philanthropic base and advance its mission. About the ...

The Development Director will work closely with the Principal/Head of Schools and an engaged Board of Directors to expand the organization's philanthropic base and advance its mission. About the ...

Development Director

Washington, DC · On-site

$129.60 - $158.40/hr

Development Director (Remote) About Empower Project Empower Project organizes to improve people's lives using the power of relational organizing. Together with our partners, we've helped boost voter ...

The Development Director is also supported by the Business Manager and Program Manager and will collaborate with a passionate, involved and experienced Board of Directors and Executive Committee. As ...

The Development Director is also supported by the Business Manager and Program Manager and will collaborate with a passionate, involved and experienced Board of Directors and Executive Committee. As ...

Role Profile Business Development Director is responsible for leading the strategy and executing the plan in a specific vertical market (or markets) and/or geographical area to prospect identified ...

Role Profile Business Development Director is responsible for leading the strategy and executing the plan in a specific vertical market (or markets) and/or geographical area to prospect identified ...

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Developmental Director information

What does a developmental director do?

A Developmental Director is responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing fundraising initiatives for an organization, often within non-profits or educational institutions. They work to build relationships with donors, create fundraising strategies, and manage donor databases. Their goal is to secure financial support to advance the organization's mission, often by organizing events, writing grant proposals, and coordinating with staff and volunteers. Developmental Directors play a key role in ensuring the financial sustainability and growth of their organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a developmental 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 bachelor’s degree and experience in development or philanthropy. Familiarity with donor management systems (such as Raiser's Edge or Salesforce), grant writing, and event planning tools is typically required. Strong communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills help set outstanding professionals apart. These skills are vital for securing funding, sustaining organizational growth, and building lasting partnerships within the nonprofit sector.

What is the difference between Developmental Director vs Program Coordinator?

AspectDevelopmental DirectorProgram Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Education, Social Work, or related field; experience in program developmentBachelor's degree often required; experience in program support or administration
Work EnvironmentLeadership role overseeing program development teams, strategic planningSupports program activities, manages logistics, assists in implementation
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, educational institutions, healthcare organizationsNonprofits, community organizations, educational programs
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership and development roles in programsSupporting and coordinating program activities

The Developmental Director typically leads program development efforts, requiring strategic planning and leadership skills, while the Program Coordinator focuses on supporting and executing program activities. Both roles are essential in organizations but differ mainly in scope and responsibility.

What are some typical challenges a developmental director faces in nonprofit fundraising, and how can they be addressed?

Developmental Directors often encounter challenges such as donor fatigue, limited resources, and increased competition for funding. To address these issues, they develop creative engagement strategies, nurture long-term donor relationships, and leverage data-driven approaches to target fundraising efforts effectively. Collaborating closely with board members, staff, and volunteers also helps in expanding the organization's network and achieving fundraising goals. Staying adaptable and continuously learning about new fundraising trends are essential for success in this role.
What are popular job titles related to Developmental Director jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Developmental Director jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Developmental Director jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Developmental Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Developmental Director job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Development Director

JLM HR Consulting

Washington, DC • On-site

$110K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Duke Ellington School of the Arts (DESA) & The Ellington Fund
Washington, DC (On-Site)

Overview

Duke Ellington School of the Arts (DESA), in partnership with The Ellington Fund, seeks an accomplished and entrepreneurial Development Director to lead its fundraising strategy and execution at a critical stage of institutional growth.

This is a high-visibility leadership role with direct accountability for philanthropic revenue generation, donor engagement, and long-term development infrastructure. The Development Director will work closely with the Principal/Head of Schools and an engaged Board of Directors to expand the organization's philanthropic base and advance its mission.

About the Organization

Duke Ellington School of the Arts (DESA) is a nationally recognized public high school that integrates rigorous academics with intensive arts training.

The Ellington Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, serves as the primary fundraising partner supporting DESA's programs, student opportunities, and institutional priorities.

Together, these entities operate in close alignment to ensure sustainable growth and continued excellence.

The Role

The Development Director will design and execute a comprehensive, integrated fundraising strategy, with a focus on:

  • Generating new philanthropic revenue
  • Expanding and diversifying the donor base
  • Strengthening major gifts and institutional funding
  • Building scalable development systems and processes

This leader will combine strategic vision with hands-on execution, operating as both a senior advisor and a frontline fundraiser.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy & Revenue Growth

  • Develop and implement a multi-year fundraising strategy aligned with institutional priorities
  • Establish annual goals, KPIs, and revenue targets
  • Identify and pursue diversified funding streams

Major Gifts Leadership

  • Build and manage a portfolio of major donors and prospects
  • Lead cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies
  • Partner with senior leadership and Board members on key donor relationships

Institutional Funding

  • Oversee grant strategy and pipeline development
  • Secure foundation, corporate, and government funding

Board & Executive Partnership

  • Serve as a trusted advisor to the Principal/Head of Schools
  • Support Board engagement in fundraising efforts
  • Provide regular performance reporting and strategic insight

Infrastructure & Team Development

  • Strengthen development operations, systems, and data utilization
  • Build a culture of accountability and performance within the function
  • Supervise staff and external partners

Performance Expectations

This is a performance-driven role with clear accountability:

  • Deliver a minimum of $250,000 in new philanthropic revenue annually, directly attributable to individual efforts
  • Build and maintain a donor pipeline of at least 3x annual revenue targets
  • Meet defined quarterly revenue benchmarks
  • Maintain strong donor engagement and retention outcomes

Performance is evaluated on a quarterly and annual basis, with direct alignment to compensation.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will be a results-oriented fundraising leader with a demonstrated ability to generate revenue, build relationships, and operate effectively in a mission-driven environment.

Professional Experience

  • 710+ years of progressive fundraising and development experience
  • Proven track record of securing major gifts and institutional funding
  • Experience working closely with executive leadership and Boards
  • Demonstrated ability to build and manage donor pipelines

Ideal Leadership Traits

Top-tier candidates will bring the following attributes:

1. Revenue Ownership & Accountability

Takes full ownership of fundraising outcomes, with a clear track record of meeting or exceeding revenue targets.

2. Relationship-Driven Influence

Builds trust quickly with donors, Board members, and stakeholders; able to influence without authority and navigate complex relationships.

3. Strategic Agility

Balances long-term vision with near-term execution; able to pivot strategies based on data, feedback, and opportunity.

4. Execution Discipline

Demonstrates strong follow-through, organization, and pipeline management; consistently converts strategy into measurable outcomes.

5. Executive Presence

Communicates with confidence and clarity; represents the organization effectively with high-level donors and partners.

6. Mission Alignment

Displays a genuine commitment to arts education, youth development, and equity in access to opportunity.

7. Builder Mindset

Comfortable operating in a growth environment; able to build systems, processes, and structure where needed.

Compensation

  • Base Salary: $110,000 (aligned with and supported by new revenue generation)
  • Performance Bonus: 10%20%
  • Additional incentive opportunities for exceeding targets
  • Competitive benefits package

Work Environment

  • On-site role in Washington, DC (remote work not available)
  • Occasional evening and weekend commitments required

Equal Opportunity

Duke Ellington School of the Arts and The Ellington Fund are equal opportunity employers committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment.

Search Process

DESA and The Ellington Fund are conducting a national search for this role. Interested candidates should submit a resume and a brief statement of interest outlining relevant experience and alignment with the mission.