The Question I Get Asked Most Often
“Nonprofits are messy. Not enough money. Too many cooks. An abundance of passion.”
The question I get asked most often is, “Why can't I find a good Development Director?”
Or its close cousin, “Why can’t I keep a Development Director?”
Nonprofit leaders often struggle to find and retain strong fundraising professionals. It's a common frustration, and understanding the reasons behind it can help you navigate this challenge effectively.
Common Challenges in Hiring a Development Director
Defining the Role
Many nonprofits lack a clear job description. This leads to confusion about expectations and attracts candidates who might not be the right fit. Or, they define the role so specifically that highly qualified staff won’t even apply.
Compensation
Nonprofit salaries may not always be competitive with the for-profit sector, making it difficult to attract experienced development professionals. When you are hiring the person or people who are going to be responsible for raising all the resources for the organization, you have to compensate them accordingly. And remember, that compensation doesn’t always mean money. Flexible hours, remote/hybrid work arrangements, paid time off, professional development opportunities can all help attract and retain fundraising staff.
Organizational Culture
A chaotic or under-resourced environment can deter qualified candidates. Development directors need support and resources to succeed. They also need respect and leadership opportunities–if direct service or program staff are the only people at the leadership table, you’ll have trouble retaining development staff.
Recruitment Process
An inefficient or prolonged hiring process can cause good candidates to lose interest. When you are writing your job description (see above), you should also clearly define the interview and hiring process. Make sure all of your interviewers have set aside time to devote to the process, and understand their role/what areas they should focus on. Document when/how you will communicate with candidates to provide feedback.
Key Strategies for Success
Networking
Leverage your network to find potential candidates. Attend industry events and connect with professionals in the field.
Targeted Outreach
Use specialized job boards and platforms that cater to development professionals. Local chapters of the Association of Fundraising Professionals often have their own job boards. Also check your local community foundation to see if they offer this service.
Invest in Training
Consider hiring a promising candidate and investing in their training and development.
Retain Talent
Once you find a good development director, focus on retention. Provide opportunities for growth, recognition, and a positive work environment.
Finding a good development director can be challenging, but by addressing common issues and implementing effective strategies, you can improve your chances of success. Your efforts will pay off with increased resources for your organization, a better working environment for you and your team, and stronger ties to your donors.
