Director of Development

For over 20 years, Minds Matter Boston has connected driven students from low-income families with the people, preparation, and possibilities to succeed in college and beyond. Now, with our expanded seven-year model, we support students from their sophomore year of high school through college graduation and into meaningful first jobs. Our new four-year strategic plan will double the number of students we serve and fuel long-term financial and economic mobility for Boston-area families.

The Director of Development (DoD) will make this vision possible. As the organization’s lead fundraiser and a senior leadership team member, the DoD will partner with the Executive Director, manage and grow a talented development team, and engage key stakeholders to raise the resources needed for growth. This is a unique opportunity for a dynamic development leader to bring their expertise in strategic fundraising, donor relations, and people management to a mission-driven organization with proven impact and ambitious plans for the future.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

Design, implement, and lead fundraising strategies that drive growth and sustainability

• In close partnership with the Executive Director and Board Development Committee, and in support of our recently launched four-year strategic plan, set and lead strategies to raise $1.8M in FY26 and increase revenue YOY to $2.6M by FY29.
• Manage and expand a portfolio of foundation, corporate, and individual funders, developing tailored cultivation and stewardship strategies and leveraging the ED and board in donor engagement.
• Expand multi-year funding across foundations and corporations, building new partnership pathways and strengthening existing relationships.
• Develop a “corporate engagement menu” offering sponsorships, volunteerism, and internships that connect partners to students’ career success.
• Activate and deepen the Board’s fundraising role, stewarding their philanthropy and networks while building a culture of accountability and engagement; partner with Executive Director to manage the Board Development Committee.
• Oversee the execution of annual fundraising campaigns and events, including the Spring Soiree and other signature activities, while empowering development staff to manage execution.
• Strengthen year-end campaigns and volunteer giving strategies, engaging volunteers and alumni as philanthropic partners.
• Oversee grant proposals and reporting with support from a part-time grant writer.
• Guide the creation of donor communications and marketing materials (appeals, reports, pitch decks, digital campaigns), ensuring messages are data-informed and student-centered.
• Partner with Minds Matter National on joint initiatives, including coordinated campaigns and coalition building.
• Ensure all fundraising strategies uplift the voices, backgrounds, and experiences of our community.

Serve as a senior leader, collaborative team member, and champion for Minds Matter’s mission and values

WHO YOU ARE