Senior Director of Development

Senior Director of Development (Full-Time)

Founded in 1988, Pioneer Institute is a Boston-based think tank dedicated to generating innovative ideas that foster prosperity and vibrant civic life across the country. Our work promotes excellence in education, healthcare, and economic opportunity, while advancing civil discourse and accountable government. In partnership with the Pioneer New England Legal Foundation, our researchers amplify their impact, driving significant change throughout the organization. The Foundation works to uphold liberties rooted in the constitutions and civil rights laws of the United States. By providing free legal services to citizens, Pioneer New England Legal Foundation aligns its efforts with Pioneer's institutional priorities and has achieved meaningful victories in the U.S. Supreme Court, federal, and state levels through litigation, Freedom of Information Act requests, and amicus briefs.

As Pioneer and the Foundation pursue the next phase of their strategic plans, we are seeking a Senior Director of Development. Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, the Senior Director will lead and expand the fundraising efforts of both the Institute and the Foundation. This pivotal role will involve strategic leadership for the Foundation's fundraising, including the active management and recruitment of its Board of Directors, identifying and cultivating new major gift prospects, and collaborating with the Development and Communications teams to engage corporations, foundations, and event sponsors to meet ambitious fundraising goals.

Additionally, the Senior Director will partner with the Development Team to further expand the major donor pipeline for the Institute, fostering long-term relationships that support sustainable growth.

This role offers a unique opportunity for a development professional who is passionate about building and sustaining a high-impact fundraising program. If you are eager to join a dynamic team of researchers and legal professionals committed to evidence-based solutions, the free exchange of ideas, individual liberty, personal responsibility, and free enterprise, we encourage you to apply.

Responsibilities

Pioneer Institute (40%)

• Help lead expansion of efforts to identify and engage major gift prospects.
• Play a key role in the recruitment of new members for the National Leaders Forum.
• Partner with Development and Communications teams to develop and execute high level events intended to strengthen relations with current supporters and attract new prospective contributors.

Pioneer New England Legal Foundation (60%)

• Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies for Pioneer New England Legal Foundation to achieve revenue goals.
• Establish principal and major giving programs, with a focus on identifying, cultivating, and stewarding prospective donors.
• Serve as a strategic advisor to the Foundation President, enhancing their role in development efforts.
• Partner with the Foundation Board of Directors to recruit new board members, engage principal and major donors, and ensure the success of the Foundation's Annual Gala, meeting both revenue and participation targets.

Qualifications

• Minimum of ten years of development experience, with proven success in securing six-figure commitments; experience with the legal sector is a plus.
• Experience and comfort with building and growing a network of supporters. Strong networking skills and ability to build connections with previously unaffiliated donors is essential.
• Proven ability to engage and collaborate with senior-level volunteers and committees.
• Exceptional written and oral communication and presentation skills.
• Strong judgment and decision-making skills to prioritize competing objectives effectively.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a knack for translating ideas into actionable plans.
• Outstanding organizational skills, with the ability to multitask effectively.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Bachelor's degree preferred, though extensive experience will be considered in lieu of formal education.

Work Hours & Benefits

• Hybrid work schedule based in Boston, MA (3-4 days in office)
• Competitive salary
• Health insurance, dental insurance, long-term disability, and a generous 401K plan
• Generous flextime policy

How to Apply

Send your resume and cover letter to Andrew Horgan at with the subject line: "Senior Director of Development." To learn more about Pioneer Institute and Pioneer New England Legal Foundation, please visit our website.

Pioneer Institute is an equal opportunity employer.