Director of Philanthropy

Position Overview

The Director of Specialized Philanthropic Programs plays a key leadership role in advancing Scouting America’s mission by strengthening and expanding national fundraising initiatives. Reporting to the Executive Vice President for Development, this position provides strategic oversight of specialized fundraising units—including Gift Planning, Annual Giving, and Corporate & Foundation Relations—while fostering strong partnerships with local councils, national development staff, and volunteers.

This role drives a coordinated, donor-centered fundraising strategy aligned with organizational priorities and serves as a member of the senior leadership team guiding Scouting America’s comprehensive campaign. The Director is responsible for cultivating and securing transformational philanthropic commitments of $1M+, ensuring sustainable growth in philanthropy, and helping secure the resources necessary to prepare young people for life.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage central fundraising units (Gift Planning, Annual Giving, Corporate & Foundation Relations), ensuring alignment with organizational priorities.
• Partner with local councils and national fundraising staff to develop and implement coordinated strategies that achieve ambitious campaign goals.
• Design and oversee fundraising priorities, staffing models, and budgets to maximize resources and outcomes.
• Engage and support volunteer fundraising boards to strengthen donor engagement and campaign success.
• Develop and monitor metrics, reporting, and analysis to measure impact and drive continuous improvement.
• Personally cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of high-capacity prospects with the ability to make $1M+ commitments.
• Serve as a member of the senior leadership team within the Office of Development, contributing to strategy, goal setting, and the successful launch of Scouting America’s comprehensive fundraising campaign.
• Foster a culture of philanthropy across the organization, modeling collaboration, accountability, and donor-centered practices.

Competencies

• Knowledge of:The philanthropic sector, including industry best practices and emerging trends. Demonstrated experience leading and developing diverse teams to secure gifts across multiple giving levels and vehicles.
• Skill in:Relationship-building, with the ability to engage, inspire, and motivate diverse stakeholders. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex information clearly, concisely, and persuasively. Developing and executing effective solicitation strategies that enhance the donor experience. Managing multiple priorities and deadlines in an effective and organized manner.
• Ability to:Build and sustain strong, personal relationships with donors, senior leaders at the National office and local councils, and passionate volunteers. Work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Think strategically and develop long-term cultivation and stewardship plans for donors across all giving levels.

Qualifications

• A minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible development experience, including at least five years in a management or leadership role.
• Preferred background includes direct experience overseeing gift planning, annual giving, or corporate and foundation relations programs.
• Proven track record in major gift fundraising, with demonstrated success securing gifts at the $1M+ level.
• Leadership experience managing central fundraising programs or specialized units within a complex nonprofit or higher education environment.
• Strong strategic, analytical, and organizational skills, with the ability to manage budgets, staffing models, and performance metrics.
• Exceptional ability to build relationships with donors, volunteers, board members, and colleagues at all levels.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Scouting America and enthusiasm for advancing youth-serving initiatives at a national scale.
• Must pass a criminal history background check.

Any work-related experience resulting in acceptable proficiency levels in the above Minimum Qualifications is an acceptable substitute for the above-specified education and experience requirements.

Preference

• Interest in philanthropy and the non-profit community.
• Experience in a campaign environment is desirable.
• Strong supervisory, coaching, and mentoring skills.
• Excellent writing and interpersonal skills. Excellent analytical and organizational skills.