Director of Development

Company: ion Philanthropy LLC
Location: Hackensack
Posted on: February 18, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Position Summary ion Philanthropy is seeking a highly skilled and motivated fundraising professional to be dedicated exclusively to its partnership with Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) Athletics. This individual will be a key partner for both the FDU Athletics and University Advancement teams, responsible for leading all philanthropic endeavors, with a strong focus on major gift acquisition and long-term donor relationship management. The ideal candidate will be an employee of ion Philanthropy and will play a critical role in developing a sustainable fundraising pipeline to support the athletics master plan at FDU. Key Responsibilities Cultivating Relationships Work with FDU Athletics and University Advancement leadership to identify and research high-potential prospects, including individuals, corporations, and foundations. Develop and implement personalized cultivation strategies for a portfolio of major gift prospects. Proactively engage with prospects through various communication methods and in-person meetings to build strong, meaningful relationships. Engage prospects in exclusive ways, such as inviting them to events, practices, or meetings with coaches and student-athletes, to demonstrate the impact of philanthropic support. Uncover prospects' philanthropic interests, motivations, and capacity through strategic questioning and active listening. Collaborate with FDU Athletics staff, coaches, and University Advancement to identify connections and facilitate introductions to potential donors. Securing Major Gift Support Create compelling, customized gift proposals and presentations that align with donor interests and FDU Athletics' priorities. Strategize and execute direct solicitations for major gifts, preparing thoroughly for each ask. Present funding opportunities to prospects confidently and articulately. Navigate discussions around gift amounts, timing, and recognition, ensuring mutual agreement and donor comfort. Guide prospects through the commitment process and ensure all documentation is completed accurately and in a timely manner. Ensure proper recording and tracking of all pledges and gifts in the database. Stewarding Donors Ensure timely and meaningful acknowledgment of all gifts, expressing gratitude and reflecting the donor's impact. Develop strategies for securing renewed and upgraded gifts. Regularly communicate the impact of donor contributions through personalized updates, reports, and testimonials. Maintain continuous engagement with donors beyond the initial gift by inviting them to exclusive events and offering behind-the-scenes access. Oversee appropriate donor recognition activities and ensure recognition preferences are honored. Actively seek feedback from donors to understand their satisfaction and identify areas for improvement. Qualifications 8 years of experience in major gift acquisition and long-term relationship management. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with a diverse range of donors and stakeholders. Ability to collaborate effectively with FDU Athletics and University Advancement. Experience in developing compelling gift proposals and presentations. Ability to manage the commitment process and ensure accurate documentation. Knowledge of best practices in donor cultivation, ask strategies, and stewardship. Location This position is located on-site at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, New Jersey Compensation & Benefits Competitive salary commensurate with experience Full benefits including health, dental and vision, and 401K About ion Philanthropy ion Philanthropy is a dynamic fundraising consulting firm founded on the principle of disrupting the status quo and driving transformative impact across the nonprofit sector. We believe in moving beyond traditional fundraising methods to forge meaningful connections between organizations and their audiences, ultimately fueling sustainable growth and mission fulfillment. At ion Philanthropy, we understand that nonprofits are the catalysts for positive change in our world. That's why we partner with organizations to develop innovative and tailored fundraising strategies that resonate with their unique missions and values. We don't just raise funds; we cultivate lasting relationships, build engaged communities, and empower our partners to achieve their most ambitious goals. Learn more at https://ionphilanthropy.com/. ion Philanthropy is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and all other protected classes under federal or state laws.

Keywords: ion Philanthropy LLC, Freeport , Director of Development, PR / Public Relations , Hackensack, New York