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Development Director Resume Examples & Tips for 2025

The Development Director is responsible for leading and executing comprehensive fundraising strategies, including major gifts cultivation, grant writing, annual campaigns, and donor stewardship programs to ensure sustainable funding for the organization's mission. This senior leadership position requires a bachelor's degree (master's preferred), 7+ years of progressive fundraising experience, exceptional relationship-building abilities, and a proven track record of securing six-figure gifts and managing successful development teams. As a key member of the executive team, the Development Director plays a crucial role in advancing the organization's mission by building and maintaining strong relationships with donors, foundations, and community partners while developing innovative approaches to expand the organization's funding base and overall impact.

$75,000
Starting Salary
7% annually
Growth Rate
6+
Key Skills
Senior Level
Experience
Development Director Resume Example

What Makes This Development Director Resume Great

Resume Writing Tips

  • Highlight specific fundraising campaign results with dollar amounts raised
  • Showcase experience managing donor relationships and stewardship programs
  • Detail grant writing success rates and total funding secured
  • Emphasize leadership experience and team development achievements

Key Achievements to Highlight

  • Secured $2.5M in major gifts through strategic donor cultivation
  • Increased annual fundraising revenue by 45% over three years
  • Developed and implemented donor retention program resulting in 85% retention rate

Technical Skills

Raiser's EdgeSalesforce NPSPDonorPerfectGrant Management SoftwareCRM DatabasesFinancial Planning SoftwareGoogle Analytics

Soft Skills

Relationship BuildingStrategic PlanningPublic SpeakingEmotional Intelligence

Relevant Certifications

  • Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE)
  • Certificate in Nonprofit Management

2025 Development Director Market Insights

Salary Range

$75,000 - $130,000

Experience Level Impact

Entry Level:$75,000+
Mid Level:$97,500+
Senior Level:$120,000+

Growth Rate

7% annually

Industry Growth Trend

Market Demand

high Demand

Strong demand driven by growing nonprofit sector and increased focus on sustainable funding

Top Employers Hiring Development Directors

United Way
American Red Cross
Salvation Army
World Wildlife Fund

Skills Analysis & Career Paths

Skills Breakdown

Technical Skills7
Soft Skills4
Certifications2

Related Career Paths

Development Director

Development Director Career Timeline

1

Entry Level

Development Coordinator

0-2 years

Learning & Foundation

2

Mid Level

Development Manager

3-7 years

Specialization & Growth

3

Senior Level

Development Director

8+ years

Leadership & Strategy

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