Blue Alliance seeks a dynamic and experienced U.S. Director of Development to spearhead our fundraising efforts across the United States. This newly created role offers an exciting opportunity for a seasoned fundraising professional to make a meaningful impact on our mission.
We seek a results-driven, entrepreneurial individual with a proven track record in major gift fundraising. As the primary U.S. fundraiser, you will lead efforts to secure support from high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and foundations, aligning with Blue Alliance's global fundraising strategy to achieve ambitious income targets.
Reporting to the Executive Director and working closely with the Partnership & Fundraising management team, you will collaborate to craft compelling proposals, develop funding reports, and deliver exceptional donor stewardship.
Your key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
- Cultivate and solicit support from Blue Alliance's five current U.S. donors.
- Identify, research, and qualify at least 25 new donor prospects annually, building an active portfolio of 80–100 donors within three years.
- Develop and meet ambitious U.S. fundraising targets.
- Deliver personalized, creative donor stewardship and communication.
- Coordinate donor relationships with senior internal stakeholders.
- Plan and execute U.S.-based fundraising events and support colleagues at public events.
- Serve as the primary fundraising liaison for trustees in the United States.
- Prepare materials, proposals, and cases for support tailored to donor needs.
- Partner with external stakeholders, ambassadors, and volunteers to expand donor pipelines.
- Travel regularly within the United States, occasionally to France, and potentially MPAs.
We have a strong corporate culture whose key values are work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. We value autonomy, initiative, and the ability to innovate in a dynamic and fast-changing environment.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Proven success in securing five- and six-figure gifts, including multi-year commitments.
- Strong understanding of donor pipeline management and goal-oriented strategies.
- Expertise in developing strategic and operational plans to increase income significantly.
- Strong familiarity with the U.S. philanthropic landscape and ecosystem.
- Demonstrated ability to engage internal and external stakeholders to build networks, raise funds, and enhance organizational visibility.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with international teams.
- Proactive and solution-oriented and take on new responsibilities.
- A keen interest in developing countries and issues related to marine protected areas.