Development Associate

The development associate plays a key role in supporting Hudson Institute’s fundraising operations through donor database management, prospect research, and coordination of development activities. The position is responsible for maintaining the accuracy and effectiveness of Salesforce as Hudson’s donor database, including gift processing, donor records, contact tracking, and reporting.

In addition, the development Associate works closely with the development team to support fundraising efforts through donor and prospect research, preparation of donor profiles and briefing materials, and coordination of outreach, follow-up, and fundraising timelines. The position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with fundraisers to ensure development activities are well-coordinated and effectively tracked.

This is a full-time position based in Hudson Institute’s Washington, DC office, reporting to the development team leads. Some travel is required.

About Hudson Institute

Hudson Institute is a research-focused public policy think tank headquartered in Washington, DC, dedicated to promoting American leadership for a secure, free, and prosperous future. For more than half a century, Hudson Institute has been challenging conventional thinking by developing new ideas and practical solutions to shape critical foreign and domestic policy decisions.

Responsibilities

Development Research and Fundraising Support (50%)

• Work closely with fundraisers to support donor identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship across all donor sectors.
• Research current and prospective donors, including philanthropic interests, giving histories, affiliations, and potential opportunities for engagement.
• Prepare donor profiles, prospect research summaries, and briefing materials to support fundraising meetings and outreach.
• Assist with prospect identification, qualification, and targeted outreach efforts.
• Track donor engagement, cultivation plans, follow-up activities, and fundraising timelines to ensure coordinated and timely outreach.
• Support the preparation of donor correspondence, proposals, meeting materials, and other development communications.
• Assist with development events, donor meetings, and other research and project coordination needs.

Database Management and Gift Administration (50%)

• Manage and maintain Hudson Institute’s Salesforce donor database, ensuring accurate and up-to-date donor records, giving histories, contact information, and interactions.
• Process and record donations, coordinating with accounting and development colleagues to ensure accurate gift entry and reconciliation.
• Prepare donor acknowledgments, tax receipts, and other gift-related correspondence.
• Create and maintain donor and prospect lists for fundraising outreach, events, and mailings.
• Track donor communications, meetings, and next steps in Salesforce to support fundraising activities.
• Develop reports and dashboards, maintain database procedures, and assist development staff with effective Salesforce usage.

Requirements

• Commitment to Hudson Institute’s mission and supporting the work of the Institute’s scholars and staff.
• Demonstrated interest in public policy and Hudson’s research areas.
• Bachelor’s degree.
• Technologically savvy. Salesforce and excel experience preferred.
• Excellent time and project management skills.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, including professional and tactful demeanor.
• Ability to work closely and effectively with others—including Hudson’s senior management, experts, and staff.
• Creative and entrepreneurial mindset.
• Acute attention to detail.
• Commitment to acting with integrity and the utmost professionalism.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary: $60,000 – $65,000 per year
• Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision coverage)
• Retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions after one year with Hudson
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Life and disability insurance
• Paid parental and family leave
• Commuter benefits

Application Instructions

• Please submit a personal resume and cover letter. The cover letter should be written by the applicant—not by generative AI.