The Director of Development leads Challenger Center’s efforts to secure philanthropic support and strategic partnerships in alignment with the organization’s mission and strategic priorities. The Director works closely with the President/Executive Director and collaborates with senior leaders across Education, Center Relations, Communications, and Finance to advance sustainable funding strategies that support Challenger Center and the global network of Challenger Learning Centers.
This role combines strategic leadership with direct execution. The Director will strengthen and rebuild the Development function during a period of transition and growth. The incumbent will assess current fundraising systems and revenue performance and implement disciplined processes and infrastructure. They will identify, pursue, and manage federal, foundation, and corporate grant opportunities. The Director is responsible for the effective management of Challenger Center’s donor CRM system (Bloomerang), ensuring data integrity, accurate reporting, disciplined pipeline tracking, and actionable fundraising analytics.
The Director will rebuild core development systems and workflows, establishing clear accountability for pipeline management, grant compliance, and donor stewardship. They are expected to engage directly in proposal development, donor cultivation, institutional funding advancement, gift structuring, and system implementation while building the foundation for long-term sustainability.
The Director serves as a front-line point of contact for donors and partners, ensuring timely communication and follow-through.
Planning and Development Strategy
Core Fundraising Accountability Areas
A. Institutional Giving (Federal and Non-Federal Grants)
B. Contributions and Sponsorships (Individual and Corporate Giving)
C. In-Kind Contributions
D. Planned Giving (Program Development)
Restricted Gifts and Gift Agreements
Management and Infrastructure
Leadership
Assessment and Planning
Operational Infrastructure
Revenue Advancement
Team and Capacity
The position is based in Washington, DC, and follows a hybrid schedule (2 days per week in the office). For an exceptionally qualified candidate, Challenger Center may consider a fully remote work arrangement. The incumbent must be able to travel to Washington, DC for key in-person meetings, leadership convenings, and other on-site needs at the request of the President/Executive Director.
Evening and weekend hours may occasionally be required for donor cultivation or special events.
This position includes occasional travel for donor relationships, visits, and meetings (Annual meeting, board meetings, special events, etc.)
We value our employees’ time, talent, and dedication to our mission. Our competitive compensation and benefits package is designed to support your career growth, financial well-being, and work-life balance.
Challenger Center is committed to creating a workplace where employees feel empowered, supported, and connected to a meaningful mission. Collaboration and innovation are at the heart of our culture, and we encourage team members to share ideas, contribute to strategic planning, and actively participate in decision-making. Our teams work together across departments to advance STEM education and inspire students to explore the possibilities of science and space. Employees are valued for their expertise, creativity, and commitment to building a future where curiosity, exploration, and discovery drive progress.
We are an equal opportunity employer that welcomes and encourages diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories for employment.