The Development Manager is responsible for overseeing the organization’s development strategy, cultivating major gifts, managing grant writing, coordinating fundraising efforts, and fostering relationships with key financial partners and donors. This person will play a key role in donor-related communications, public relations, data management, research, and special events. The Manager will also direct the organization’s broader communications activities, including publications, public/press relations, maintenance of the website, and production of the annual report.

Essential Functions

• Develop and execute an annual development plan, including strategies for major gifts, grants, and fundraising campaigns along with metrics for measuring success.
• Identify, cultivate, and solicit major gift prospects to secure significant contributions.
• Build and maintain a donor/donor prospect database with a focus on donor stewardship.
• Establish and achieve annual donor and fundraising goals.
• Manage grant writing and submission processes, including identifying funding opportunities and developing proposals.
• Interact with donors to encourage ongoing contributions and deepen relationships.
• Plan and manage key fundraising events, including annual campaigns such as Give DeKalb County and the Annual Appeal, along with OH Signature Events.
• Develop consistent donor communication plans, including newsletters, thank-you campaigns, and impact reports.
• Manage the OH website in terms of necessary content changes with primary responsibility for the donor services elements of the website.
• Establish and implement policies and practices to develop a consistent marketing strategy across all channels.
• Serve as the primary contact with local organizations, businesses, and community groups to foster partnerships and expand donor networks.
• Draft, forecast, and oversee the department’s operating budget.
• Manage or monitor social media activities.
• Evaluate and manage donor software.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Expertise in fundraising strategies, major gifts cultivation, and donor stewardship.
• Strong grant-writing, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication.
• Good judgment/discretion, ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Solid organizational ability, including attention to detail, ability to multi-task, and ability to perform well under time pressure and time restraints.
• Demonstrated skills, knowledge and experience in the design and execution of marketing, communications and public relations activities.
• Commitment to the organization’s mission.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of marketing and development experience with non-profit agencies.
• Grant writing experience.
• Proficiency in donor management software and the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience with platforms including Bloomerang, Constant Contact, Canva, and Word Press helpful.