LAWFF CAREERS

ABOUT US

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

Director of Development

The Director of Development is a pivotal leadership role responsible for building and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy to grow the Foundation’s impact across Louisiana. This individual will establish and lead the Foundation’s development function, serving as a key partner to the Foundation leadership, the Board, and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

Key Responsibilities

  • Build and lead the Foundation’s fundraising program, including 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 with event/fundraising teams to maximize revenue and donor engagement

  • Increase awareness, visibility, and support for LAWFF across Louisiana

  • Serve as a strategic partner to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries

  • Track, measure, and report on fundraising performance and growth

Qualifications

  • Minimum of four years of experience in fundraising, development, or a related field, with demonstrated success in major gifts

  • Bachelor’s degree required

  • Proven ability to build relationships and influence diverse stakeholders

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

  • Strong organizational, planning, and execution capabilities

  • Proficiency in standard business and donor management tools

  • Highly resourceful, self-directed, and results-oriented

Experience & Attributes

  • Experience building or expanding a development function or program

  • Familiarity with planned giving and comprehensive fundraising campaigns

  • Knowledge of Louisiana’s philanthropic landscape and donor community

  • Passion for conservation, wildlife, and outdoor recreation

  • Willingness and ability to travel extensively within the state

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is more than a fundraiser—they are the chief ambassador, storyteller, and advocate for the Foundation.

This individual brings presence, credibility, energy, and the ability to represent LAWFF externally at the highest levels and inspire others to invest in its mission. They are a natural relationship-builder who thrives in front of donors, partners, and stakeholders, translating the Foundation’s work into compelling opportunities for impact.

They are articulate and charismatic, equally comfortable engaging one-on-one with major donors or speaking to large audiences. With a deep passion for conservation and for the role of wildlife and fisheries in Louisiana’s heritage and future, they connect emotionally and authentically with diverse audiences.

The ideal candidate demonstrates:

  • A strong executive presence and polished communication style

  • The ability to act as the public face and leading voice of the Foundation

  • A genuine passion for the mission, coupled with enthusiasm for its long-term potential

  • Strategic thinking alongside a hands-on, roll-up-your-sleeves mentality

  • The confidence to build something from the ground up and scale it over time

  • Above all, this leader will play a critical role in shaping the Foundation's future, driving the relationships, resources, and visibility needed to expand its impact across the state.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

  • Compensation will reflect the successful candidate's experience, skills, and ability to contribute to the Foundation's mission.

  • Travel reimbursement

  • Paid time off

  • Hybrid work environment

WHY WORK WITH LAWFF?

  • We are the official nonprofit partner of LDWF

  • Statewide impact

  • Strong conservation mission

  • Flexible work environment

DOWNLOAD JOB DESCRIPTION