Director of Development

About PowerLines

PowerLines is a national nonprofit dedicated to reforming the utility regulatory framework in the United States to reduce consumers' energy costs and stimulate economic growth. The organization focuses on state public utilities commissions (PUCs), which influence utility expenses, energy investments, and project deployments. These commissions oversee over $200 billion annually and significantly impact the future energy infrastructure.

Organizational Context

In 2025, utility companies requested unprecedented $31 billion rate increases while millions of Americans face difficulties paying bills amid rising electricity demand driven by AI and manufacturing expansion. PowerLines has become a nationally respected, nonpartisan authority featured in numerous major media outlets and partnered with bipartisan policy entities.

Position Overview

PowerLines seeks a full-time Director of Development—the first fundraising professional onboard—to establish and lead a robust major donor fundraising program aiming to secure $5-$10 million yearly from family foundations, family offices, donor advised funds, and high-net-worth individuals. Reporting to the Founder and Executive Director, this remote role requires up to 30% travel and offers a unique opportunity to create the organization's fundraising strategy and financial base during a growth phase.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy targeting key philanthropic sources.
• Work with leadership to ensure fundraising aligns with organizational goals and budgeting.
• Maintain and cultivate institutional funder relationships.
• Identify, research, and develop prospective donors and maintain a healthy donor pipeline.
• Support leadership in fundraising meetings, pitches, and the creation of briefing materials.
• Convert organizational achievements in policy and media presence into fundraising prospects.
• Plan and manage fundraising events like dinners and gatherings.
• Attend relevant conferences and events to network with potential donors.
• Steward existing donors through engagement, communications, thank-you efforts, and renewal initiatives.
• Manage grant proposal development, submissions, tracking, and renewals in coordination with leadership.
• Create and maintain development infrastructures including databases and CRM systems for effective donor management.
• Support onboarding and mentoring of future development staff.

Candidate Profile

• Minimum of 8 years of experience achieving six- and seven-figure gifts, preferably with family foundations, family offices, donor advised funds, or high-net-worth individuals.
• Proven donor portfolio management expertise and strong comfort with direct solicitation.
• Exceptional communication and strategic thinking skills, with ability to align fundraising with PowerLines’ mission and donor values.
• Experience in crafting impactful pitch materials and managing grants lifecycle.
• High emotional intelligence and adaptability, thriving in startup environments with rapid growth and shifting priorities.
• Passion for consumer advocacy in energy affordability and regulatory modernization.

Unique Opportunity

• Engage with a critical and growing national issue of utility affordability amid rising inflation pressures.
• Become a foundational team member shaping the fundraising function within a pioneering, rapidly expanding organization.
• Influence national policies and support economic outcomes via scalable philanthropic partnerships.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range of $150,000 to $225,000, adjusted based on qualifications and location.
• Benefits package includes unlimited paid time off, paid holidays, health insurance, 401k employer match, sick leave, and wellness benefits.