Development Director, School Engagement

Development Director, School Engagement
American Heart Association
Tempe, AZ | Hybrid | Full-Time
Requisition ID: 2026-17147 | Posted: 2/27/2026

OVERVIEW

Since our founding in 1924, we've cut cardiovascular disease deaths in half, but there is still so much more to do. To overcome today's biggest health challenges and accelerate this progress, we need passionate individuals like you. Join our movement, be part of the progress, and help ensure a healthier future for all.

We are currently hiring a Development Director, School Engagement. This is a full time, field-based position that requires extensive travel across the Greater Phoenix area. Flexibility in working hours, including early mornings and evenings, is essential to accommodate the needs of schools and events.

In this fast-paced fundraising/sales position, you will engage K-12 students with the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge, working with hundreds of schools to promote physical activity and learning. The role also involves extensive data management, continuously updating account information in our CRM databases and Microsoft Office products.

RESPONSIBILITIES

This position is directly responsible for meeting an overall fundraising goal of $309,000 (participant income and corporate sponsorship) through exceptional volunteer recruitment and engagement, customer service and account management.

- Recruit and engage students through schools and districts in life-saving initiatives including Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge programs.
- Implement strategies and initiatives to fully engage students through classroom challenges, activities and student assemblies (in-person and digital experiences).
- Develop and cultivate relationships on an ongoing basis with teachers, principals and district superintendents.
- Establish and maintain outstanding customer service with volunteers and other collaborators, including detailed planning and kick-off meetings to set schools up for success.
- Manage and continuously update account information within CRM databases and Microsoft products.
- High volume account management regularly involving 5-10 schools each day, in-person where possible or online/by phone.

QUALIFICATIONS

- 3 years of relevant experience in fundraising, sales, or other related experience.
- Ability to do daily local travel; requires access to reliable transportation at all times.
- University/College degree or equivalent experience.
- Ability to work productively from a home office and in the field consistent with the Association's flexible work arrangements policy.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and communicate proactively.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ability to efficiently manage and report data using CRMs.
- Ability to lift and/or move large objects as needed.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including early mornings and evenings.

PREFERRED SKILLS
- Experience managing and cultivating volunteer relationships.
- Knowledge of corporate and community networks.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

- Competitive base salary with regular market reviews; this position is incentive eligible based on achieving certain targets.
- Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
- Robust retirement program with employer match and automatic contribution.
- Employee assistance program, wellness program, and telemedicine.
- Paid Time Off: minimum 16 days/year for new employees, plus 12 paid holidays.
- Tuition Assistance Program.
- Access to Heart U, the Association's award-winning online university with 100,000+ resources.
- Employee Resource Groups (ERG) and professional mentoring program.

ABOUT THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

The American Heart Association's 2028 Goal: Building on over 100 years of trusted leadership in cardiovascular and brain health, by 2028 the Association will drive breakthroughs and implement proven solutions in science, policy, and care for healthier people and communities.

Our mission: to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, religion, age, language, sexual orientation, national origin and physical or cognitive abilities.

EOE/Protected Veterans/Persons with Disabilities