Development Director
Position Overview
Leatherstocking Council, Scouting America is seeking a dynamic and mission-driven Development Director to lead and grow the Council’s comprehensive fundraising efforts across our multi-county service area in Central New York. This position provides leadership, strategy, and execution for all development initiatives, including Friends of Scouting, special events, major gifts, corporate partnerships, and foundation support.
The Development Director plays a critical role in ensuring that every youth has access to the life-changing programs of Scouting by securing the financial resources needed to sustain and expand our impact.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement a comprehensive annual development plan that supports the Council’s strategic objectives, including Friends of Scouting, special events, grants, and major gifts.
- Cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with individual donors, community leaders, corporate partners, and foundations throughout the Leatherstocking Council territory.
- Partner with the Scout Executive, Board of Directors, and key volunteers to identify, engage, and solicit prospective donors and community champions.
- Manage and grow a portfolio of donors, ensuring meaningful engagement, recognition, and long-term relationship development.
- Lead the planning and execution of fundraising events, including Friends of Scouting presentations, community events, and other revenue-generating activities.
- Identify and pursue new funding opportunities, including grants and corporate sponsorships, to broaden the Council’s funding base.
- Prepare compelling proposals, presentations, and reports to communicate the impact of Scouting and inspire philanthropic support.
- Track and analyze fundraising performance, providing regular reports and recommendations to improve results and achieve goals.
- Recruit, support, and guide volunteer fundraising leadership, including campaign chairs and committee members.
- Stay current on fundraising trends and best practices, bringing innovative strategies to strengthen the Council’s development efforts.
Education
Bachelor’s degree in a related field, or equivalent experience.
Qualifications
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in fundraising, development, or nonprofit advancement (experience within youth-serving or mission-based organizations preferred).
- Proven success in securing major gifts, managing donor relationships, and executing fundraising campaigns.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage volunteers, donors, and community stakeholders.
- Experience coordinating events and working collaboratively with volunteers and boards.
- Highly organized and self-motivated, with the ability to manage multiple priorities across a geographically diverse council.
- Proficiency in donor management systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
- A passion for youth development and a commitment to the mission and values of Scouting America.
Benefits
All councils are equal opportunity employers and offer a competitive salary, based on the council’s geographic location. Professional Scouting offers benefits to include major medical, prescription coverage, dental, vision, life insurance, long-term disability, accidental death, retirement plan, plus compensation for authorized and approved business-related expenses, including phone and mileage reimbursement. We also offer a generous vacation policy and holiday observances.
Joining Leatherstocking Council means becoming part of a passionate team dedicated to building character, leadership, and lifelong skills in youth across our communities. This role offers the opportunity to make a direct and lasting impact while working alongside committed volunteers, alumni, and community partners who believe in the power of Scouting.
Salary or Salary Range: $65-75,000 with performance based bonuses available
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Refer to this link for BSA career information: https://www.scouting.org/careers/working-with-us
