Development Director

About HWCEC

HWCEC is a NAEYC-accredited early childhood education center serving children and families across Northwest Arkansas. We partner with families, donors, and community leaders to deliver high-quality early learning that prepares children for lifelong success.

The Role

The Director of Development leads a comprehensive fundraising and communications strategy to advance HWCEC’s mission. This leader will grow philanthropic revenue, deepen donor engagement, and elevate HWCEC’s visibility across the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and execute an annual development plan (major gifts, grants, corporate/foundation partnerships, campaigns, and events).
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors and prospects; maintain strong, personalized engagement.
• Lead grants lifecycle (prospecting, proposals, reporting) in collaboration with program and finance teams.
• Manage CRM (e.g., Salesforce): accurate gift entry, pipeline tracking, and reporting for ED/Board.
• Partner with the Board Development Committee; equip volunteers with tools and messaging.
• Drive donor-focused communications (impact stories, press, website/social content) aligned to strategy.
• Plan mission-centered tours, briefings, and community events that inspire giving and advocacy.
• Track budgets and KPIs; ensure development activities meet or exceed net revenue targets.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations or Marketing preferred or a related field, or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and education is required.
• 3–5 years of progressive fundraising experience (major gifts, grants, campaigns/events).
• Strong writer and storyteller; proven grant writing and donor communication skills.
• Relationship-builder with professionalism, discretion, and follow-through.
• Organized, data-savvy, and comfortable with CRM reporting (Salesforce experience a plus).
• Ability to work occasional evenings/weekends for donor events.
• Successful completion of required background checks.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus benefits.
• Collaborative, mission-driven culture with strong community partnerships.
• Professional development and leadership growth opportunities.

Work Environment and Schedule

This position is primarily performed in an office setting within a well-lit, climate-controlled environment with minimal to moderate noise levels. It is a full-time role, typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Work hours may vary based on organizational needs, and occasional evening or weekend hours may be required for special events, projects, or campaigns.

Additional Information

This job description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the position but is not an exhaustive list of all duties or requirements. The organization reserves the right to modify responsibilities and expectations as necessary. Helen R. Walton Children’s Enrichment Center is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, or federal law.

How to Apply

Email a resume and cover letter (optional: 1–2 brief writing samples such as a grant excerpt or donor letter) to acannon@hwccenter.org with subject line “Director of Development – [Your Name]”. Priority consideration by October 31, 2025. Position open until filled.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $60,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement

Work Location: In person