Director, Northeast
African Parks Foundation of America
Remote; East Coast (New York City/Tri-State Area preferred; approximately 40-60% domestic and international travel required)
Anticipated Start Date: Rolling
Description
The Director, Northeast will play a critical role in advancing APFA’s fundraising efforts in the Northeastern United States. A proven frontline fundraiser with extensive experience soliciting six- and seven-figure gifts, the Director will be responsible for identifying, qualifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding an annual portfolio of donors and will play a key role in the African Parks Foundation’s $1B global fundraising campaign which launched in January 2026.
Working closely with the US-based Executive Director and global development colleagues, the Director will develop a portfolio of donor prospects, build strong relationships, and generate appropriate proposals and asks that result in new and increased restricted and unrestricted support. The ideal candidate will be a self-directed, entrepreneurial fundraiser with an ambitious, no-fail attitude. They will bring creativity, energy, and passion to the role and have an obvious ability to generate enthusiasm for conservation and Africa’s future and make a compelling case for philanthropic support.
Frequently cited statistics show that women and people from underrepresented groups apply to jobs only if they think they meet 100% of the criteria. If you meet many but not all the criteria and feel you may be a good fit for the role, APFA encourages you to apply.
APFA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, national origin, ethnic origin, citizenship status, disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law in its employment policies. APFA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.
Responsibilities
Actively develop, grow, and maintain a portfolio of ~100-125 major donors and prospects in the Northeast region at the six- and seven-figure level.
As a key frontline fundraiser, serve as a compelling, energetic, and professional representative of APFA.
Manage relationships with potential donors and prospects to increase giving, moving them in an appropriate and timely fashion toward solicitation and closure.
Partner with the Executive Director and Director of Development Operations to identify and qualify new prospects in the broader Northeast region aligned with APFA’s mission.
Partner with the Executive Director to plan an annual New York City gala, anticipated to launch in 2027.
Create and deliver compelling proposals, presentations, and reports that communicate African Parks’ global impact and priorities.
Collaborate with African Parks’ Global Fundraising and Communications teams to advance fundraising goals and ensure strategic alignment and coordinated donor outreach.
Maintain accurate and timely records of donor interactions and progress in CRM systems (Salesforce).
Regularly travel to meet donors, attend events, and represent APFA at regional and national gatherings.
Contribute to the development of US fundraising strategies and provide insights on trends among New York City and Northeast area philanthropists and networks.
Participate in weekly team meetings, cross-functional planning sessions, and staff retreats.
Requirements
Experience – Required
8+ years of frontline fundraising experience
A proven, successful track record in growing a donor base at the five- and six-figure level and soliciting and closing major gifts; experience with corporate sponsorships a plus
Expertise in working with high-net worth individuals, including Board members
Strong understanding of donor cultivation and stewardship best practices
Goal orientation and the ability to work in a fast-paced, team environment across different time zones, carry out projects independently, manage multiple deadlines, and take initiative
Entrepreneurial spirit with a history of growing revenue through successful and meaningful prospecting efforts
Skilled in thinking creatively and entrepreneurially about ways to fundraise for APFA’s mission
Sound judgment in maintaining confidential donor information and ability to act with discretion, self-assurance, and diplomacy
Strong organizational skills and discipline in stewarding donor information and maintaining database records; proficiency with Microsoft Office and fundraising software
Personal Attributes
Passionate about conservation and its role in improving the planet
A natural relationship-builder who can galvanize board members, donors, and staff around APFA’s mission and fundraising goals
A creative approach to problem-solving and an entrepreneurial and strategic mindset, with the skills and experience necessary to build upon existing systems and create new ones as needed to broaden and improve the development function
Superior interpersonal skills and a high level of self-awareness, with a proven ability to successfully engage with a variety of audiences
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Willingness and desire to attend evening/weekend events and to travel regularly to cultivate/steward key donors and prospects; ability to travel to Africa approximately twice a year required
Salary Range and Employee Benefits
Competitive total compensation package with earnings potential of up to approximately $225K, including a base salary of $180K-$200K and a performance-based bonus of up to 12.5% of base salary, based on achievement of agreed-upon fundraising goals
Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, and generous paid time off
How to Apply for this Job
About the Organization
African Parks Foundation of America (APFA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and sustainable management of Africa’s national parks and protected areas. By partnering with African governments and local communities, APFA supports the work of African Parks, ensuring the long-term protection of wildlife, ecosystems, and livelihoods. With its partners, APFA manages 24 parks in 13 countries, covering over 20 million hectares, making African Parks the largest and most ecologically diverse conservation network on the continent.
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