Business Development Executive

Job Description: Development Manager

Position Summary

The Development Manager leads and oversees fundraising, donor relations, and development strategy to support the organization’s mission and financial sustainability. This role manages fundraising campaigns, cultivates donor relationships, writes grant proposals, and collaborates with leadership to set and achieve revenue goals. The Development Manager also supervises development staff and ensures the effectiveness of all fundraising systems, processes, and events.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy & Execution

Develop and implement annual fundraising plans to meet organizational revenue goals.

Identify, cultivate, and steward donors across individual, corporate, and foundation sectors.

Manage major gift initiatives, annual giving programs, recurring donor programs, and capital campaigns.

Oversee development marketing materials, including appeal letters, fundraising content, and impact reports.

Grant Management

Research grant opportunities and maintain a robust grant pipeline.

Write and submit high-quality grant proposals and ensure timely reporting and compliance.

Track grant deliverables, metrics, and deadlines.

Donor Relations & Stewardship

Build and maintain strong relationships with donors and prospects.

Ensure all gifts are acknowledged promptly and donor information is maintained accurately in the CRM.

Create and execute donor stewardship plans, recognition programs, and impact communication.

Events & Campaigns

Plan, coordinate, and execute fundraising events (galas, auctions, virtual events, etc.).

Oversee digital fundraising campaigns and social giving initiatives.

Management & Collaboration

Supervise development staff, interns, or volunteers (if applicable).

Collaborate with executive leadership and department heads to align fundraising with organizational priorities.

Report regularly on fundraising progress, analytics, and revenue forecasts.

Systems & Data Management

Maintain and optimize the donor database (CRM).

Ensure compliance with fundraising laws and ethical standards.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in communications, nonprofit management, business, or a related field (Master’s preferred).

Proven track record of meeting fundraising goals and managing donor relationships.

Experience with grant writing and fundraising CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce, Raiser’s Edge, DonorPerfect).

Skills & Competencies

Strong communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills.

Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines efficiently.

Strategic thinker with problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.

Leadership and team-management skills.

Proficiency with data analysis, budgeting, and reporting.

Work Environment

Full-time, hybrid or in-office depending on organizational needs.

Occasional evenings or weekends for events or donor meetings.

Sample Job Titles Covered

Development Manager

Development & Communications Manager