Application Guide
How to Apply for Director of Development and External Engagement
at New American Leaders
🏢 About New American Leaders
New American Leaders (NAL) and its action fund are uniquely dedicated to preparing first and second-generation immigrants and refugees for political leadership, filling a critical gap in American democracy. Working here means being at the forefront of building an inclusive political landscape, with a direct impact on who gets elected and what policies are advanced. If you're passionate about immigrant rights and equitable governance, this is a place where your work translates into tangible change.
About This Role
As the Director of Development and External Engagement, you'll be a key strategist in growing NAL's financial resources and public presence, working closely with the Chief Advancement Officer. You'll lead major donor and institutional fundraising, cultivate partnerships, and oversee communications to elevate the organization's brand and amplify the voices of alumni elected officials. This role is pivotal in ensuring NAL has the funding and visibility to train and elect a new generation of diverse leaders.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might start with a virtual check-in with the CAO to align on priorities, followed by drafting a proposal for a foundation or preparing talking points for an alumni leader's op-ed. You might spend the afternoon on a donor call, then review a communications calendar to ensure social media and email campaigns are on message. Evenings could involve virtual networking events or board meetings, balancing strategic planning with hands-on execution.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who New American Leaders Is Looking For
- Proven experience in nonprofit fundraising, with a track record of securing major gifts and institutional grants, ideally in a political or advocacy context.
- Strategic thinker who can develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising and external engagement plan that aligns with both 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) goals.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire donors, build partnerships, and serve as a compelling spokesperson.
- Familiarity with immigrant communities and a passion for building inclusive democracy; experience working with elected officials or political campaigns is a plus.
📝 Tips for Applying to New American Leaders
Highlight any experience you have with both 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations, as this dual structure is central to NAL's work—mention how you've navigated different fundraising rules.
Showcase specific examples of how you've built relationships with major donors or foundations, including the size of gifts and how you stewarded those relationships.
Demonstrate your understanding of immigrant and refugee issues—mention any relevant volunteer work, language skills, or personal connection to the community.
In your cover letter, explicitly connect your fundraising philosophy to NAL's mission of preparing New Americans for office, showing you're not just a fundraiser but a mission-driven leader.
Since the role is remote, provide examples of how you've successfully managed remote teams or worked independently, and emphasize your ability to travel for donor meetings if indicated.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Your passion for NAL's mission and specific ideas for how you would expand its donor base and external engagement.", "Your experience in fundraising for both c3 and c4 entities, and how you've navigated the complexities of each.", "Your ability to leverage alumni elected officials as ambassadors to boost the organization's profile and attract funding.", 'Your strategic vision for integrating communications and development to tell a compelling story that resonates with donors and the public.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Familiarize yourself with NAL's programs (e.g., their training academies) and the backgrounds of their alumni—this shows genuine interest.
- → Read recent press releases or media coverage about NAL to understand their current campaigns and messaging.
- → Look into the leadership team, especially the Chief Advancement Officer, to understand their background and priorities.
- → Review their annual reports or donor materials to see how they currently communicate their impact and who their major funders might be.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't submit a generic cover letter—make it clear you've researched NAL and understand the unique intersection of immigrant rights and political leadership.
- Avoid focusing solely on fundraising numbers without connecting them to the mission; NAL wants someone who cares about the 'why' behind the dollars.
- Don't overlook the communications aspect—this role isn't just development; it's also about external engagement, so be prepared to discuss how you'd handle PR and messaging.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to New American Leaders!