Hybrid Director of Development at Urban Pathways

About Urban Pathways

Since 1975, Urban Pathways has engaged New York City’s most vulnerable residents, people on the streets or in areas unfit for human habitation, “lighting the path home, one person at a time.” Urban Pathways is a catalyst for transformative change in the lives of unhoused adults, empowering them to discover their inherent strengths and abilities. We provide essential support and foster an environment where individuals can redefine their narratives and become their best selves.

Job Summary

Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, the Director of Development is a key leader responsible for executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy to grow private revenue in support of Urban Pathways’ mission. This role oversees the annual campaign, individual leadership giving, corporate and foundation relations, and development operations, managing a high-performing team to meet annual and long-term revenue goals. The Director works closely with senior leadership and board members to strengthen donor relationships and expand philanthropic support. 

Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions

• Design and implement an annual and multi-year fundraising plan with the Chief Development and Communications Officer, focusing on growth in major and leadership-level giving.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of leadership donors and prospects, securing gifts in the five- to six-figure range.
• Lead segmentation and moves management strategies to strengthen the donor pipeline and ensure personalized donor engagement.
• Work in collaboration with the CEO, CDCO, and Board of Directors to support leadership and major donor engagement and solicitation.
• Directly manage the Development Manager and Corporate and Foundation Relations Manager; provide clear goals, feedback, and professional development opportunities while fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability.
• Promote close coordination with the Communications team to align messaging and leverage storytelling for donor engagement.
• Oversee the planning and execution of all fundraising events, including the annual gala, ensuring they meet both revenue and cultivation goals.
• Support board development efforts by equipping members with tools, training, and assignments to serve as fundraisers and ambassadors.
• Oversee donor reporting and analytics in partnership with the Development Manager; review revenue dashboards and advise on course correction as needed.
• Collaborate with Program and Finance teams to develop compelling funding proposals and ensure donor reporting aligns with impact metrics and program delivery.
• Contribute to organization-wide strategy discussions as a member of the senior leadership team.
• Represent Urban Pathways at donor events, site visits, and external fundraising engagements.
• Mentor junior staff and create a culture of professional development, feedback, and continuous improvement within the fundraising team.

Qualifications, Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree required; advanced degree or CFRE preferred.
• 6-8 years of progressively responsible fundraising experience with a track record of securing major gifts from individuals.
• Strong knowledge of donor lifecycle strategies, stewardship best practices, and moves management.
• Demonstrated ability to manage and mentor a high-performing team.

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Highly organized and results-oriented, with strong project management skills and attention to detail.
• Proven ability to build and manage relationships with high-net-worth individuals, board members, and institutional stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate high-level goals into actionable plans.
• Adept at balancing multiple priorities and shifting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfortable working with data and CRM systems to track performance and inform strategy; Raiser’s Edge NXT proficiency strongly preferred. 

Capabilities

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, push, pull, lift (up to 25 lbs.).
• Desire to perform the essential functions of this job.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Comfortable with using public transportation to travel to and from various programs sites.

Urban Pathways offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of our employees. 

These benefits include:

• Healthcare Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to keep you and your family in good health.
• Retirement Savings: A 403(b) plan and a 401(a) with employer annual contribution to help you plan for a secure financial future.
• Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and personal days.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Work-life balance is important to us, and we offer flexible work arrangements to accommodate your needs.
• Wellness Programs: Employee wellness programs, including fitness initiatives and mental health support.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal or work-related issues.
• Employee Recognition: Recognition programs to celebrate and reward outstanding contributions.