Director of Development

ACTIVE SEARCH   |   LOUISIANA (STATEWIDE)   |   FULL-TIME

Build a fundraising engine from the ground up for Louisiana’s wildlife, fisheries, and wild places.

COMPENSATION	LOCATION	REPORTS TO	TRAVEL
$115K–$130K	Anywhere in Louisiana	ED & Board	Extensive, in-state

About the Foundation

The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation (LAWFF) exists to enhance and encourage public enjoyment and responsible use of the state’s wildlife and fisheries resources. The Foundation advances the work of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries through youth recruitment, environmental education and training, and habitat conservation.

It is a small, nimble organization with an outsized mission. To date, fundraising has centered on events and grassroots efforts; the Foundation is now ready to build a real, modern development program — and this role will lead that build.

Why This Role Is Worth a Look

This is a rare greenfield opportunity: the first true development leader at LAWFF, with the mandate to design the fundraising strategy, launch a major gifts program, and grow corporate and individual support across Louisiana. The Board is engaged and willing to open doors and make introductions — this leader brings the strategy and the relationships to turn those doors into lasting support.

For someone who loves the outdoors and believes in conserving Louisiana’s natural heritage, it is a chance to be the face and voice of the mission — and to build something that lasts. There is real room to grow with the Foundation over time.

What You’ll Do

• Build and lead the Foundation’s fundraising program — strategy, structure, and execution.
• Develop and manage a robust pipeline of individual, corporate, and institutional donors.
• Launch and expand a major gifts program in partnership with Board members and key stakeholders.
• Collaborate on events and campaigns to maximize revenue and donor engagement.
• Raise awareness, visibility, and support for LAWFF across the state as its chief ambassador.
• Serve as a strategic partner to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
• Track, measure, and report on fundraising performance and growth.

The Profile

More than a fundraiser — the chief ambassador, storyteller, and advocate for the Foundation. We’re open to seasoned development leaders and to strong relationship-builders from adjacent fields (corporate partnerships, business development, sales) who bring genuine fundraising instincts and a real passion for conservation.

What You Bring (Required)

Nice to Have (Preferred)

• 4+ years in fundraising, development, or a related field, with demonstrated major-gifts success. • Proven ability to build relationships and influence diverse stakeholders — and to make the ask. • Excellent written and verbal communication; presence and credibility with donors and partners. • Highly resourceful, self-directed, and results-oriented. • Genuine passion for conservation, wildlife, and the outdoors. Bachelor’s degree; willingness to travel extensively within Louisiana.

• 10+ years in development, ideally having built or scaled a program from the ground up. • Major gifts, planned giving, and comprehensive campaign experience. • Knowledge of Louisiana’s philanthropic landscape and donor community. • Corporate sponsorship and partnership development. • Comfort as the public face — speaking to audiences large and small. Background in conservation, outdoor, or sportsmen’s organizations.

Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.

INTERESTED — OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO SHOULD BE?

Katherine Gahl  |  Mountaintop Search  |  [email protected]

All conversations are confidential. Happy to share more before you decide if it’s worth a deeper look.