Development DirectorDuke Ellington School of the Arts (DESA), in partnership with The Ellington Fund, seeks an accomplished and entrepreneurial Development Director to lead its fundraising strategy and execution at a critical stage of institutional growth.This is a high-visibility leadership role with direct accountability for philanthropic revenue generation, donor engagement, and long-term development infrastructure. The Development Director will work closely with the Principal/Head of Schools and an engaged Board of Directors to expand the organization's philanthropic base and advance its mission.Duke Ellington School of the Arts (DESA) is a nationally recognized public high school that integrates rigorous academics with intensive arts training.The Ellington Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, serves as the primary fundraising partner supporting DESA's programs, student opportunities, and institutional priorities.Together, these entities operate in close alignment to ensure sustainable growth and continued excellence.The RoleThe Development Director will design and execute a comprehensive, integrated fundraising strategy, with a focus on:Generating new philanthropic revenueExpanding and diversifying the donor baseStrengthening major gifts and institutional fundingBuilding scalable development systems and processesThis leader will combine strategic vision with hands-on execution, operating as both a senior advisor and a frontline fundraiser.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategy & Revenue GrowthDevelop and implement a multi-year fundraising strategy aligned with institutional prioritiesEstablish annual goals, KPIs, and revenue targetsIdentify and pursue diversified funding streamsMajor Gifts LeadershipBuild and manage a portfolio of major donors and prospectsLead cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategiesPartner with senior leadership and Board members on key donor relationshipsInstitutional FundingOversee grant strategy and pipeline developmentSecure foundation, corporate, and government fundingBoard & Executive PartnershipServe as a trusted advisor to the Principal/Head of SchoolsSupport Board engagement in fundraising effortsProvide regular performance reporting and strategic insightInfrastructure & Team DevelopmentStrengthen development operations, systems, and data utilizationBuild a culture of accountability and performance within the functionSupervise staff and external partnersPerformance ExpectationsThis is a performance-driven role with clear accountability:Deliver a minimum of $250,000 in new philanthropic revenue annually, directly attributable to individual effortsBuild and maintain a donor pipeline of at least 3x annual revenue targetsMeet defined quarterly revenue benchmarksMaintain strong donor engagement and retention outcomesPerformance is evaluated on a quarterly and annual basis, with direct alignment to compensation.Candidate ProfileThe ideal candidate will be a results-oriented fundraising leader with a demonstrated ability to generate revenue, build relationships, and operate effectively in a mission-driven environment.Professional Experience7–10+ years of progressive fundraising and development experienceProven track record of securing major gifts and institutional fundingExperience working closely with executive leadership and BoardsDemonstrated ability to build and manage donor pipelinesIdeal Leadership TraitsTop-tier candidates will bring the following attributes:1. Revenue Ownership & AccountabilityTakes full ownership of fundraising outcomes, with a clear track record of meeting or exceeding revenue targets.2.
Relationship-Driven InfluenceBuilds trust quickly with donors, Board members, and stakeholders; able to influence without authority and navigate complex relationships.3. Strategic AgilityBalances long-term vision with near-term execution; able to pivot strategies based on data, feedback, and opportunity.4. Execution DisciplineDemonstrates strong follow-through, organization, and pipeline management; consistently converts strategy into measurable outcomes.5.
Executive PresenceCommunicates with confidence and clarity; represents the organization effectively with high-level donors and partners.6. Mission AlignmentDisplays a genuine commitment to arts education, youth development, and equity in access to opportunity.7. Builder MindsetComfortable operating in a growth environment; able to build systems, processes, and structure where needed.CompensationBase Salary: $110,000 (aligned with and supported by new revenue generation)Performance Bonus: 10%–20%Additional incentive opportunities for exceeding targetsCompetitive benefits packageWork EnvironmentOn-site role in Washington, DC (remote work not available)Occasional evening and weekend commitments requiredEqual OpportunityDuke Ellington School of the Arts and The Ellington Fund are equal opportunity employers committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment.Search ProcessDESA and The Ellington Fund are conducting a national search for this role.
Interested candidates should submit a resume and a brief statement of interest outlining relevant experience and alignment with the mission.