At a time when the world faces unprecedented existential threats—from nuclear risk to biosecurity and climate instability—the mission of the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI) has never been more urgent. As global need for prevention, preparedness, and international cooperation increases, NTI is expanding its partnerships with foundations, governments, and corporations to meet the moment with bold solutions.
We are seeking an experienced and creative Director of Development to lead our institutional fundraising strategy and forge the partnerships that will power NTI’s next era of impact. Reporting directly to the Vice President of Development, this strategic leader will work closely with NTI’s executive team, program leads, and a dedicated development team to drive sustainable growth and deepen institutional support.
Primary duties and responsibilities
- Design and implement institutional funding strategies aligned with NTI’s priorities and evolving philanthropic trends.
- Contribute to broader development strategy, team leadership, and cross-functional collaboration.
- Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with foundation and government funders.
- Lead the development of high-quality proposals, concept notes, budgets, and reports—translating NTI’s complex programmatic work into compelling funding opportunities.
- Partner with program and finance teams to ensure alignment, accurate budgeting, compliance, and timely reporting.
- Manage the institutional giving pipeline in Salesforce, ensuring accurate tracking and analysis of prospects, proposals, and grants.
- Brief senior leadership and prepare materials for funder engagement and high-level meetings.
- Strengthen internal systems and processes to support efficient grants management and funder engagement.
The ideal candidate will drive a collaborative and strategic team approach to development and be able to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders. This person will be a relationship-builder comfortable engaging with high-level individuals and unafraid to engage in direct discussions around financial support. They are an exceptional written and oral communicator with the creativity and skills to develop a long-term institutional partnerships and development strategy. This candidate is a team player who is willing to pitch in as needed regardless of title or function.
Qualifications
- A bachelor’s degree.
- At least 8 years of experience in institutional fundraising, with a strong record of securing and managing six- and seven-figure grants.
- Exceptional skills in proposal writing, editing, and grants management.
- Experience with CRM systems, preferably Salesforce.
- Excellent relationship management, communication, and organizational skills.
- You have a deep understanding of the foundation and government funding landscape, particularly in global security, public health, and/or technology.
- You exhibit high integrity and sound independent judgment.
- You have demonstrated familiarity with donor stewardship and cultivation, and retention strategies.
- You are extremely curious and embrace constant learning.
- You build internal, cross-functional relationships.
DRiWaterstone is proud to lead this search on behalf of NTI.
