Senior Foundation Development Specialist

Sanford Health is one of the largest and fastest-growing not-for-profit health systems in the United States. We’re proud to offer many development and advancement opportunities to our nearly 50,000 members of the Sanford Family who are dedicated to the work of health and healing across our broad footprint. 

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Department Details

Summary

Job Description

The Senior Development Specialist supports the Sanford Health Foundation Sioux Falls team by providing elevated administrative and donor engagement support that advances major, elite & transformational fundraising efforts. This role focuses on stewardship strategy execution, donor communications for top donors, research, reporting, and leadership of select donor programs and events.

This position works closely with philanthropy officers and Foundation leadership to prepare donor meeting materials, including customized packets, giving histories, and reports. The Senior Development Specialist assists with maintaining individual fundraiser stewardship plans, ensuring timely follow-up, tracking of donor touchpoints, and preparation of meaningful donor communications.

The role also supports donor acquisition efforts by researching and qualifying prospective donors and assisting with outreach and new donor calls based on giving levels and engagement strategies.

The Senior Development Specialist plays a key role in creating high-quality donor-facing materials, including stewardship reports, proposals, and presentations. This includes creatively enhancing materials using tools such as Canva to clearly communicate impact, gratitude, and alignment with donor interests. The role also supports the preparation and coordination of holiday, birthday, and special occasion gifts for elite and major donors, as well as select recognition and honors.

In addition to donor support, the Senior Development Specialist leads or coordinates several Foundation initiatives and programs. These may include donor-funded scholarships, employee recognition awards, women’s giving initiatives, legacy-focused events such as the Legacy Luncheon, and donor cultivation or VIP stewardship gatherings. The role may also coordinate asset-based stewardship opportunities, such as tickets, suites, and special experiences, ensuring appropriate donor alignment and tracking.

The Senior Development Specialist provides support for executive and board-level engagement by assisting with preparation of executive briefings, board and committee packets, financial summaries, and calendar coordination as needed. This role also supports the management of select grant or funding request processes and assists with internal tracking and documentation.

Successful candidates are highly organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable working with senior donors, volunteers, and leadership. The Senior Development Specialist must exercise sound judgment, discretion, and professionalism when handling confidential donor information and sensitive communications. Strong communication skills, creativity, initiative, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment are essential for success.

Qualifications

Sanford is an EEO/AA Employer M/F/Disability/Vet. 

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request an accommodation for help with your online application, please call 1-877-673-0854 or send an email to talent@sanfordhealth.org.