Job Description

Executive Director, Development – Drive Strategy. Lead People. Power Mission.

Are you a seasoned leader in development operations who thrives in complex, high-performing environments?

Engage Partners is seeking an accomplished Executive Director of Development for one of our mission-driven clients. This is a full-time, hybrid leadership role requiring 3 days per week onsite in the Greater Boston area. This is a rare opportunity to build strategy, guide operations, and shape a dynamic team—while making a lasting impact.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, the Executive Director will provide strategic and operational leadership for key areas of the development team, including events, operations, prospect management, and communications. This position will directly oversee approximately 40% of the development staff and play a pivotal role in driving systems, performance, and integration efforts.

The ideal candidate is a dynamic and proactive development leader with strategic vision, financial acumen, philanthropic expertise, and operational know-how.

Experienced in a matrixed organization, excelling in collaboration, communication, and managing priorities. A strong commitment to social justice, inclusion, and continuous learning within large social impact and healthcare organizations is essential.

You'll be part of a senior leadership team driving strategy and operational excellence in philanthropy.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement strategies that align with institutional fundraising goals
• Lead annual planning, performance measurement, and team goal setting
• Monitor industry trends to drive innovation and excellence in development operations

Operational Oversight

• Direct system-wide support services including CRM and donor platforms
• Ensure compliance with policies related to gift processing, data integrity, and reporting
• Leverage analytics and dashboards to inform decision-making and optimize resources

Team & Culture

• Lead a team of 20+ professionals across multiple development functions
• Promote a culture of accountability, learning, and collaboration
• Support integration of development operations across new organizational units

What You’ll Bring

• 15+ years in development and operations in large, complex organizations
• At least 10 years in senior leadership overseeing performance, systems, and staff
• Proven success managing cross-functional teams and technology platforms (e.g., Raiser's Edge, donor tech tools)
• Strong financial acumen and experience using data to shape strategy and outcomes
• Passion for mission-driven work, with a background in nonprofit or service-centered organizations

You will be working alongside top physicians, scientists, and leaders, our team drives meaningful impact. Employees enjoy comprehensive benefits, competitive pay, and extensive well-being resources, including a highly subsidized healthcare plan.

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