Vice President of Development

Purpose of Position

Further the mission of Make-A-Wish by leading and overseeing all statewide resource development, fundraising, and outreach efforts in close partnership with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This role provides strategic and operational leadership to build and sustain individual, major gifts, foundation, corporate, grants and event-related giving opportunities with a strong emphasis on relationship-based fundraising.

This position is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive fundraising strategies aligned with organizational marketing initiatives and driving growth through innovative approaches. The role directs day-to-day development activities, ensures achievement of annual fundraising goals, and leads the Development team to successfully advance the organization’s mission and impact.

At Make-A-Wish Arizona, everyone is different and valued. We believe that people of any race, color, ethnicity, sex, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, faith, religion, age, physical and mental ability, neurodiversity, socioeconomic status, nationality, cultural background, military status, or any other aspect which makes them unique are welcome and important. Together, we continue to build a community that fosters so that we can grant the wish of every eligible child.

At Make-A-Wish Arizona, we strive to communicate openly and honestly while speaking our truth. We encourage all to do the same, and we acknowledge that these conversations can be difficult and uncomfortable. All viewpoints are welcome unless they spread misinformation or diminish or dehumanize others. Our commitment to this work enriches our organization and makes us all stronger together.

Define and manage organizational fundraising and outreach programs for individual, corporate, and annual giving with special attention to expanding the chapter’s major gifts program. Set financial benchmarks and ensure successful implementation of activities to meet revenue goals.

Steward and promote the organization’s planned giving program.

Lead efforts to strategize and assign major donor portfolios. Work closely with CEO to ensure excellence in relationship management, including ongoing cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship for current and prospective donors.

Oversee the execution of a series of signature events designed to increase revenue and exposure for our chapter. Events include the annual AZ Wish Ball, Trees of Joy, and southern Arizona community breakfast among others.

Effective leader in Development activities for the entire organization, elevating the importance of philanthropy.

Lead departmental development of annual fundraising plan; responsible for implementation of all associated activities.

Lead activities to ensure a “donor-centered” culture of philanthropy is built into all programs, activities, and organizational communications.

Evaluate all campaigns and event ROI annually; identify opportunities for growth. Assign incoming prospects to appropriate staff members.

Manage and support direct reports in the establishment and achievement of their annual goals and guide their career growth (Independent Development Plans).

Provide collaborative leadership, representing development department initiatives, goals, and progress.

Ability to work in a hybrid environment and maintain motivation and creativity.

Assist CEO in working closely with recruitment, training, development, and support for current Board members to realize their annual goals and objectives to support chapter.

Prepare regular reports and presentations on development trends and metrics.

Attend all Board of Director meetings; attend committee meetings as appropriate.

Work closely with the CEO to support board members’ giving.

Act as a productive, open, and supportive member of the Senior Leadership Team in conjunction with the CEO and Chief Administrative Officer.

Collaborate with the VP of Mission Delivery to ensure the Mission and Development teams are working in support of each other.

Collaborate with the Senior Director of Marketing and Public Relations on any external…