Director of Development

The salary range is based on several factors, including, but not limited to, overall experience, relevant experience, education level, certifications, applicable skills, and expertise.

About Urban Pathways

Since 1975, Urban Pathways has engaged New York City’s most vulnerable residents, people on the streets or in areas unfit for human habitation, “lighting the path home, one person at a time.” Urban Pathways is a catalyst for transformative change in the lives of unhoused adults, empowering them to discover their inherent strengths and abilities. We provide essential support and foster an environment where individuals can redefine their narratives and become their best selves.

Job Summary

Reporting to the Chief Development and Communications Officer (CDCO), the Director of Development is a senior leader responsible for designing, implementing, and managing Urban Pathways’ comprehensive fundraising strategy. This role provides strategic direction, revenue accountability, and team leadership to ensure sustainable philanthropic growth in support of the organization’s mission and long-term goals.

The Director of Development serves as a key partner to the Board of Directors, executive leadership, and the Director of Marketing & Communications, ensuring alignment between fundraising strategy, organizational messaging, and external engagement.

Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions

Strategy & Leadership

• Develop and lead an annual and multi-year fundraising strategy aligned with organizational priorities, growth goals, and financial sustainability.

• Establish clear KPIs and proactively recommend adjustments to KPIs and overall strategy to the Chief Development & Communications Officer (CD&CO) as needed.

• Serve as a strategic advisor to the CEO and CDCO on philanthropic strategy, donor engagement, and revenue diversification.
• Participate in contributing to organization-wide planning, budgeting, and decision-making.

Fundraising Programs & Revenue Generation

• Oversee all fundraising programs, including major gifts, annual giving, corporate partnerships, foundation grants, and special events.
• Establish revenue goals and track progress across all giving streams.
• Lead cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies to grow and sustain donor support.

Donor & Board Engagement

• Partner with the Board of Directors and senior volunteers to advance fundraising priorities and deepen donor relationships.
• Develop and support board fundraising strategies, including training, tools, and individualized engagement plans.
• Manage a portfolio of key donors and prospects, with an emphasis on major and leadership gifts.

Team Leadership & Infrastructure

• Directly manage and mentor development staff, providing clear goals, performance feedback, and professional development support.
• Build scalable fundraising systems, processes, and infrastructure to support organizational growth.
• Ensure strong collaboration between development, marketing & communications, and program teams.

Data, Analytics & Accountability

• Oversee fundraising analytics, dashboards, and reporting to monitor performance and inform strategy.
• Use data to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement.
• Ensure accurate and timely reporting to leadership, the board, and funders.

Qualifications, Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree required; advanced degree or CFRE preferred.
• 7-10 years of progressively responsible fundraising experience with a track record of securing major gifts from individuals.
• Strong knowledge of donor lifecycle strategies, stewardship best practices, and moves management.
• Demonstrated ability to manage and mentor a high-performing team.

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Highly organized and results-oriented, with strong project management skills and attention to detail.
• Proven ability to build and manage relationships with high-net-worth individuals, board members, and institutional stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate high-level goals into actionable plans.
• Adept at balancing multiple priorities and shifting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfortable working with data and CRM systems to track performance and inform strategy; Raiser’s Edge NXT proficiency strongly preferred.

Capabilities

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, push, pull, lift (up to 25 lbs.).
• Desire to perform the essential functions of this job.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Comfortable with using public transportation to travel to and from various programs sites