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Director Of Development Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Director of Development

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$90K - $95K/yr

Director of Development * Reports to: Chief Executive Officer * Schedule: M-F, Full-time Exempt; some evenings, and weekends required. * Pay Rate: $90,000-$95,000 commensurate with experience JOB ...

Director of Development

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$90K - $95K/yr

Director of Development * Reports to: Chief Executive Officer * Schedule: M-F, Full-time Exempt; some evenings, and weekends required. * Pay Rate: $90,000-$95,000 commensurate with experience JOB ...

Manager of Development

Greenfield, WI · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

This position reports to the Director of Marketing and Community Engagement . Key Responsibilities ... and other development initiatives as assigned. Qualifications Required Education - Bachelor ...

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Director Of Development information

See Wisconsin salary details

$40.9K

$93.3K

$156.5K

How much do director of development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of development in Wisconsin is $93,250.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,700.00 and $109,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of development, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Development, you need expertise in fundraising strategy, donor relations, and nonprofit management, often supported by a relevant degree and substantial experience in development roles. Familiarity with donor management systems (such as Raiser’s Edge or Salesforce), grant writing, and data analysis tools is typically required. Outstanding communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills help cultivate donor trust and inspire teams. These capabilities are crucial for meeting fundraising goals, sustaining organizational growth, and advancing the nonprofit’s mission.

What are some common challenges faced by a director of development when managing fundraising initiatives?

Directors of Development often face challenges such as balancing short-term fundraising goals with long-term relationship building, motivating and aligning diverse teams, and adapting strategies to shifting donor priorities. They must also ensure effective communication across departments and with external stakeholders. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong leadership, data-driven decision making, and the ability to inspire both staff and donors toward the organization's mission.

What is the difference between Director Of Development vs Development Manager?

AspectDirector Of DevelopmentDevelopment Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees overall development strategy, manages teams, and aligns projects with organizational goals.Manages specific development projects, coordinates teams, and ensures project delivery.
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, often advanced degrees, and experience in leadership roles.Bachelor's degree in relevant field, experience in project management or development.
Work EnvironmentExecutive-level, strategic planning, often in office settings.Operational, project-focused, collaborative team environment.

The main difference is that the Director Of Development focuses on strategic oversight and leadership, while the Development Manager handles day-to-day project management. Both roles require relevant experience and collaboration, but the director has a broader scope and higher-level responsibilities.

What does a director of development do?

A Director of Development is responsible for overseeing an organization's fundraising and development strategies. They manage donor relationships, create fundraising campaigns, and coordinate with staff to achieve financial goals. This role often involves working with nonprofits or educational institutions to secure grants, cultivate major donors, and ensure the sustainability of funding. The Director of Development also analyzes fundraising data and trends to improve future efforts and typically reports to executive leadership.
What are the most commonly searched types of Of Development jobs in Wisconsin? The most popular types of Of Development jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Director Of Development jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Director Of Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Director Of Development job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,250 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Director of Development

MRA Recruiting Services

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Director of Development | War Memorial Center | Milwaukee, WI

Salary: $76,000-$85,000+ 

The War Memorial Center is a living tribute dedicated to honoring those who served while strengthening our community through education, remembrance, and civic engagement. Guided by our mission, Honor the Dead. Serve the Living., we are committed to preserving the legacy of our nation's veterans while inspiring future generations.

We are seeking an accomplished and relationship-driven Director of Development to lead the organization's fundraising strategy and philanthropic growth. Reporting directly to the President & CEO, this position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of one of Milwaukee's most respected nonprofit institutions.

The Director of Development will cultivate meaningful relationships with donors, foundations, corporations, community leaders, and Board members while building sustainable support for the War Memorial Center's mission and long-term success.

Position Overview

The Director of Development is responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy that advances the organization's mission, strengthens donor engagement, and supports future growth.

This role provides leadership across all areas of philanthropy, including major gifts, annual giving, foundation and corporate partnerships, planned giving, stewardship, and donor communications. The Director will also partner closely with the President & CEO, Board of Trustees, volunteers, and staff to expand philanthropic support and deepen community engagement.

Qualifications

Qualified candidates will possess:

  • Bachelor's degree required
  • Five or more years of progressive nonprofit fundraising and development experience

  • Demonstrated success securing major gifts, cultivating donor relationships, and managing fundraising initiatives

  • Experience working with foundations, corporate partners, and individual donors

  • Strong strategic planning, communication, and relationship-building skills

  • Experience with Raiser's Edge or comparable donor management systems

  • Ability to engage and inspire donors, volunteers, Board members, and community stakeholders

  • CFRE or similar professional fundraising certification preferred

Why Join the War Memorial Center?

This is more than a fundraising leadership position. It is an opportunity to steward an important community institution, strengthen support for veterans and their families, and help ensure the War Memorial Center's mission continues to thrive for generations to come.

You will join a dedicated team committed to service, stewardship, collaboration, and community impact while playing a key role in shaping the organization's future. If you are passionate about building meaningful relationships, advancing mission-driven work, and creating lasting community impact, we encourage you to apply and become part of the War Memorial Center's next chapter.

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As one of the largest employer associations in the nation, MRA helps its member organizations thrive by offering the most comprehensive assortment of HR services, information, education, and resources to help build successful workplaces and a powerful workforce.

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