Development Director, Little Rock

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. You matter, and so does the impact you can make with us.

We are hiring a Development Director in Little Rock, AR. This role will focus on implementing the educational, fundraising Sweetheart’s campaign in Little Rock (Central AR) and Hot Springs while creating awareness and spreading the mission of the American Heart Association.

The Sweetheart’s program educates high school sophomore woman about heart health, philanthropy and volunteering. This position focuses on building ongoing relationships with high school sophomores, parents, hospitals, schools, and community leaders of the Central Arkansas community.

This is an office-based position that offers a hybrid schedule in a fast-paced environment.

We have a fast-paced sales type of environment with the main responsibility of driving revenue in support of our mission.  We offer a base salary with the potential to earn an incentive up to 25% of your base pay. The potential incentive is based on achieving certain revenue targets and triggers. 

The Association offers many resources to help you maintain work-life harmonization through your changing needs and life situations. To help you be successful, you will have access to Heart U, our award-winning corporate university, as well as additional training and support, locally.

#TheAHALife is more than a company culture; it is our way of life. It embodies our commitment to work-life harmonization and is guided by our core values where our employees can thrive both personally and professionally. Discover why you will Be Seen. Be Heard. Be Valued at the American Heart Association by following us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X, and at heart.jobs.

• →Implement the Sweetheart’s campaign to raise funds through the educational fundraising program with high school students in Little Rock (Central AR) and Hot Springs.
• →Recruit and engage high school sophomore women in the Sweetheart’s program to educate and fundraise for the American Heart Association. This includes building and maintaining relationships with high school students, parents, schools, and others to promote the program.
• →Recruit and manage volunteer leaders and volunteer committees.
• →Engage hospitals, corporations, and other community leaders to build out a robust educational program for students. Includes planning and implementing regular member engagement events.
• →Achieve income and recruitment goals through prospecting, recruiting, and cultivating relationships in the community.
• →Handle event management, including but not limited to planning, logistics, implementation, and post-event evaluation for continuous improvement.
• →Work with Communications Director to support and promote program communication plans.

Want to move your resume to the top so that you can become a “Relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives?” Here are some of the requirements:

• 3 years of relevant experience in fundraising, sales, or other related experience
• University/College degree or equivalent experience
• Ability to do daily local travel up to 75% and some overnight trips as needed; requires access to reliable transportation at all times on an immediate basis
• Ability to lift and/or move large objects (such as boxes) with the expectation that heavier items would be broken down into smaller components or requesting additional assistance may be required before lifting and/or moving
• Must have at least basic knowledge and skill/proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Knowledge and understanding of special event fundraising is helpful.
• Solid understanding of how to engage and work with philanthropic communities.
• Ability to travel daily within the Central AR and Hot Springs areas; requires access to reliable transportation at all times.

• Experience managing and cultivating high-level leaders at the C-Suite level
• Knowledge of corporate and community networks

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. The greatest discoveries in health must reach everyone where they are.

In accordance with local and state laws where applicable, qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment.

EOE/Protected Veterans/Persons with Disabilities