Development Director | Virginia (Hybrid)

About This Opportunity

The Korean-American Scientists and Engineers Association (KSEA) is seeking an experienced and visionary Development Director to establish and lead our organization's fundraising efforts in the United States. This is a rare opportunity to build something from the ground up--as our inaugural Development Director, you will play a foundational role in creating KSEA's development infrastructure, cultivating a culture of philanthropy, and implementing sustainable fundraising strategies that will shape our organization's future for years to come.

During your first year, you will focus on establishing core development programs and relationships that will set the groundwork for long-term success in annual giving, major gifts, planned giving, corporate sponsorships, and donor stewardship. This position offers the unique opportunity to design systems, processes, and engagement strategies while working closely with KSEA's Executive Committee (EC) and Directors Committee (DC) to align our mission with impactful storytelling and donor engagement.

Overview

Reporting directly to the Executive Committee (EC), the Development Director will collaborate closely with KSEA's leadership to build a comprehensive fundraising operation from the ground up. This individual will be responsible for creating internal systems, establishing key relationships, and developing strategic fundraising initiatives that align with KSEA's mission and long-term strategic goals. The Director will serve as the architect of KSEA's philanthropic culture, focusing initially on annual giving while laying the foundation for major gifts, planned giving, and corporate sponsorship programs in subsequent years.

Key Responsibilities

Building the Foundation (Year 1 Focus)

  • Establish a comprehensive fundraising operation, including internal systems, processes, donor databases, and success metrics

  • Build a robust annual giving program to engage members and cultivate a pipeline of future major donors and corporate sponsors

  • Develop relationships with key stakeholders, including board members, general members, existing donors, and sponsors to foster buy-in and support for fundraising initiatives

  • Partner with the Executive Committee (EC) and Directors Committee (DC) to design impactful messaging and create compelling donor and sponsor engagement materials

  • Cultivate a culture of philanthropy within KSEA, with an emphasis on achieving 100% leadership participation in annual giving campaigns

Strategic Development & Planning

  • Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic fundraising plan aligned with KSEA's mission and long-term strategic goals to ensure sustainable growth and impact

  • Establish measurable annual and multi-year fundraising goals based on the KSEA Strategic Plan

  • Gradually expand the annual giving program to include major giving, planned giving, and sponsorship strategies in Years 2 and 3

  • Provide regular progress reports to the Council, utilizing data-driven insights to guide strategy and decision-making

Corporate Sponsorship Development

  • Identify, cultivate, and secure corporate sponsorships to support KSEA's events, programs, and initiatives

  • Develop and implement tailored sponsorship packages that align with the corporate social responsibility goals of potential sponsors

  • Collaborate with the Executive Committee (EC) and Directors Committee (DC) to recognize sponsors through strategic branding and visibility opportunities

  • Highlight the impact of sponsorships through strategic communication materials and events

Stakeholder Engagement & Stewardship

  • Serve as the staff liaison to the Fundraising Committee (to be established), supporting their efforts to champion KSEA's fundraising goals

  • Partner with Council members and major donors to strengthen their role as advocates and cultivate future opportunities for support

  • Develop meaningful relationships with KSEA members, creating pathways for increased engagement and philanthropic participation

  • Design and implement a comprehensive stewardship program to effectively recognize and appreciate current and prospective donors and sponsors

Communications & Impact Reporting

  • Collaborate with the Executive Committee (EC) and Directors Committee (DC) to produce compelling impact reports, donor and sponsor acknowledgments, and success stories that reinforce donor confidence and loyalty

  • Translate complex organizational initiatives into compelling narratives that resonate with diverse donor audiences

  • Ensure consistent, strategic messaging across all fundraising communications and materials

Qualifications Required

  • Education: Bachelor's degree (BA or BS)

  • Experience Level: Mid-career professional with proven experience in nonprofit fundraising

  • Strong track record of success in major gifts, planned giving, and annual giving campaigns

  • Exceptional relationship-building skills with demonstrated success in engaging members, donors, and board members

  • Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex ideas into compelling narratives for diverse audiences

  • Strong organizational and project management skills, with proven ability to set clear priorities, manage multiple initiatives simultaneously, and meet deadlines

  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with leadership teams and committees

Preferred

  • Advanced degree or CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) certification

  • Bilingual proficiency in Korean and English, or demonstrated understanding and appreciation of Korean American cultural values and traditions

  • Experience collaborating with communications teams to align messaging with donor outreach and engagement strategies • Familiarity with

  • fundraising software and CRM (Customer Relationship Management) tools

  • Experience building development programs from inception

  • Knowledge of the Korean American community and/or STEM professional associations

What We Offer

  • Competitive Compensation: Starting at $100,000+, commensurate with experience and qualifications

  • Flexible Work Environment: Hybrid work arrangement based in Virginia

  • Professional Growth: Unique opportunity to build and shape a development program from the ground up

  • Impactful Mission: Join an organization dedicated to advancing Korean American scientists and engineers

  • Collaborative Culture: Work closely with engaged leadership and a passionate community of professionals

Application Instructions

Interested candidates should submit the following materials:

  1. Cover Letter – Explain your interest in this position and how your experience aligns with KSEA's mission

  2. CV/Resume – Detailed professional experience and accomplishments

  3. Philosophy Statement – Share your personal philosophy on philanthropy and donor engagement (1-2 pages)

  4. References – Names and contact information for four (4) professional references • Note: The hiring manager will speak directly with references rather than requesting letters

Korean-American Scientists and Engineers Association (KSEA)
Location: Virginia (Hybrid) Contract Duration: 3 years
Travel Requirements: As needed, less than 50%
Salary Range: $100,000+ (commensurate with experience and qualifications)

Submit application materials to:

sejong@ksea.org
Phone: 703.748.1221

About KSEA

The Korean-American Scientists and Engineers Association (KSEA) is a premier professional organization dedicated to advancing the careers of Korean American scientists and engineers while promoting scientific and technological cooperation between the United States and Korea. Through networking, mentorship, professional development, and community engagement, KSEA empowers its members to achieve excellence in their fields while fostering the next generation of STEM leaders.

KSEA is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in our workforce. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds.