Director of Development - Charlottesville, VA

Director of Development
The Salvation Army | Charlottesville, VA

Salary Range: $90,000–$100,000

The Salvation Army of Charlottesville is seeking an experienced, strategic Director of Development to lead a comprehensive fundraising program during a period of significant growth, including a transformative $28 million capital campaign that will expand services and deepen impact across the community.
This role is ideal for a seasoned fundraising professional — driven by purpose and integrity — who excels at revenue growth, donor stewardship, and leadership in a mission-focused organization serving its local community.

WHO THIS ROLE IS FOR
This role is designed for an experienced fundraising leader who brings a proven track record in managing comprehensive development programs. The ideal candidate is comfortable stepping into an existing operation and leading strategy and execution from day one. Success in this role requires comfort working within a well-defined organizational structure, including approval processes, policies, and reporting requirements, while still driving strong fundraising results.

WHY THIS ROLE
The Salvation Army is one of the most trusted nonprofit organizations in the world. For 114 years, The Salvation Army of Charlottesville has served the community by directly supporting individuals and families in need. Its work includes emergency assistance to help people remain housed, shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness as they work toward stable housing, food access, utility assistance, case management, and other programs that help community members not only survive but thrive. The current capital campaign—now more than 50% toward its goal—represents a pivotal investment in the future of these essential services and the community they serve.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Fundraising Leadership

• Create and implement a comprehensive annual development plan in partnership with the Corps Officer and Divisional Development Director, setting clear revenue goals and strategies
• Increase overall fundraising revenue annually in alignment with approved plans and campaign priorities
• Manage and grow a personal portfolio of 20 to 30 corporate, foundation, and individual major gift prospects using moves management best practices
• Meet or exceed an annual personal major gift goal approved by leadership
• Develop and manage timelines for fundraising initiatives to ensure timely execution
• Coordinate and secure in-kind donations

Capital Campaign & Major Gifts

• Partner with campaign consultants and leadership to bring the $28 million capital campaign to a successful close
• Cultivate and steward major donors with thoughtful engagement strategies
• Record and track all donor interactions and gifts in Blackbaud CRM in a timely and accurate manner

Grants & Corporate Giving

• Identify and pursue grant opportunities in collaboration with regional leadership
• Prepare and submit grant proposals, United Way applications, and required reports
• Maintain positive relationships with funders and community partners

Direct Mail & Annual Giving

• Provide oversight of the direct mail program, including calendar planning, vendor coordination, review of appeals, and performance analysis
• Ensure timely and accurate acknowledgments and donor communications
• Monitor fundraising trends and adjust strategies to improve performance
• Participate in divisional collaboration to strengthen program effectiveness

Donor Care & Stewardship

• Lead a comprehensive donor care strategy to increase retention and long-term engagement
• Ensure timely receipting, acknowledgments, and pledge reminders
• Maintain the integrity, confidentiality, and hygiene of donor records in Blackbaud CRM
• Respond promptly and professionally to donor inquiries

Marketing & Communications

• Develop and implement a marketing and communications plan that elevates awareness of fundraising initiatives and campaign progress
• Produce newsletters, press releases, and an annual report
• Manage website and social media updates related to development
• Represent The Salvation Army at civic, church, and community events

Events & Community Engagement

• Oversee planning and execution of special events and seasonal campaigns
• Engage volunteers in development-related initiatives
• Support Advisory Board committees related to development, marketing, and community relations

Leadership & Administration

• Supervise and develop one to three staff members
• Prepare and manage the annual development budget
• Monitor revenue and expense reports and provide regular updates to leadership and the Advisory Board
• Ensure compliance with Salvation Army policies and ethical fundraising standards

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in business or a related field
• Five years of progressively responsible experience in a comprehensive development program
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Valid driver’s license required
• CFRE preferred

BENEFITS

• Paid Time Off
• Retirement savings plan available
• Health insurance
• Voluntary life insurance and additional benefits

READY TO APPLY?
Apply today to become part of an inspiring organization where your work truly matters.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until March  27, 2026. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply at their earliest convenience.

Arthur Alley Search Solutions is managing this search; all questions and nominations can be directed to Claire (at) ArthurAlley (dot) com.