Associate Director of Development

About the Role

The Associate Director of Development is accountable for growing, cultivating, and managing a portfolio of qualified donors who help fund the organization’s conservation priorities. The role centers on building strong long-term donor relationships, shaping engagement strategies, and securing major gifts from both global and local prospects. It also involves close coordination with conservation teams so donor conversations reflect program updates and impact.

This position works across the Oceania and Asia-Pacific region and collaborates with colleagues at the Worldwide Office. The incumbent will keep relevant teams informed about developments, issues, and concerns, while directing questions to the right internal contacts. The role also includes regular use of the donor CRM, support for proposals, plans, and reports, possible prospect research, volunteer engagement in formal or informal networks, and the organization of strategic donor events.

Key Responsibilities

The role carries significant fundraising, portfolio management, relationship management, and stewardship responsibilities. It may also require independent decision-making, coordination of peers, and handling of sensitive negotiations.

• Oversee a portfolio of 75 to 125 donors, including individuals capable of contributing more than $1,000,000.
• Drive donor engagement through activation activity, targeting 125 visits and 275 moves each year.
• Keep donor and prospect information current and accurate in the CRM system.
• Deliver an annual fundraising result of at least $1,000,000.
• Work autonomously when required and use sound judgment to identify and resolve issues.
• Make decisions with organization-wide financial or legal implications when necessary.
• Handle confidential information carefully and in line with best practices.
• Follow internal policies, procedures, and all relevant external fundraising, legal, and IRS requirements.
• Manage work within budget while meeting fundraising targets and financial obligations.
• Collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders in a values-driven manner.
• Lead assigned initiatives, coordinate peer contributions, and deliver against deadlines.
• Take part in complex or sensitive negotiations when needed.
• Supervise administrative or support staff where assigned.
• Communicate the organization’s mission convincingly to varied audiences.
• Travel often and at short notice, including to remote locations, and work flexible and extended hours as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree plus 5 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent mix of education and experience.
• Proven ability to build and sustain long-term relationships with fundraising stakeholders.
• Track record of securing and closing gifts of $25,000 or more.
• Experience managing and monitoring multiple donors and prospects at once.
• Background working across functional teams.
• Training, coursework, or practical experience in fundraising principles and methods.

Working Conditions

The work environment involves only occasional exposure to unpleasant conditions and minimal physical effort or strain.

Compensation

The salary range for this role is $130,000 to $145,000 plus superannuation.

About the Organization

The Nature Conservancy works to safeguard the lands and waters that sustain all life. As a science-driven organization, it develops practical solutions to major environmental challenges with the goal of creating a world where people and nature can thrive. The organization values respect for people, communities, and cultures, and seeks to build an inclusive workplace where different experiences and perspectives are welcomed and valued.

Benefits and Work Environment

Benefits vary by country and may include medical coverage, retirement plans, parental leave, paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance support, and other wellbeing benefits. A flexible work environment is offered to support employee health and wellbeing.

Application and Hiring Notes

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early interest is encouraged. Once a strong pool of candidates is identified, the opening may be closed before the listed timeline. Applicants must submit their application through the employer’s internal job portal. The successful candidate must pass the organization’s background screening process.

Equal Opportunity and Accommodation

The organization is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and identities. It also provides accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans during the application process.

If accommodation is needed, a request may be sent to the designated recruitment email with the subject line indicating a request for accommodation.