We're Hiring - Development Manager

Title: Development Manager (30 hours/week)

Summary: The Development Manager is an experienced and entrepreneurial professional with a passion for Rhode Island’s historic and unique places. They will work with the Executive Director to set development priorities, as well as to lead the execution of those strategies with the goal of substantially increasing the organization’s capacity, sustainability, and impact.

This position is responsible for overseeing the organization’s overall fundraising strategy, including membership, special events, planned giving, and annual fund, with a focus on building and strengthening relationships with individual donors, family foundations, and grantors. They will manage the multi-year development plan, with the support of board and staff, and oversee its implementation. This position will report to the Executive Director.

Responsibilities

• Execute the comprehensive strategic multi-year development plan and budget with clear benchmarks to expand philanthropic giving and ignite enthusiasm for Preserve RI.

• Grow revenues from individuals, Foundations (including Family Foundations), donor-advised funds, and events to increase general operating resources.

• Manage relationships with current donors, increasing engagement and retention; identify, cultivate, and build philanthropic relationships with prospective donors; identify and develop relationships with Foundations, corporations and grant funders; identify and request support from donor advised funds.

• Lead efforts to build a culture of philanthropy throughout Preserve RI.

• Manage all aspects of Preserve RI’s fundraising program, including donor relations, stewardship, and solicitations.

• Assess and enhance existing development infrastructure to support revenue growth, including making strategic improvements to Preserve RI’s donor stewardship program.

• Develop and promote a legacy giving program.

• Oversee annual the fundraising calendar for Preserve RI membership, annual fund, special events and Lippitt House Museum.

• Lead the development and growth of the Anchor Circle to expand Preserve RI’s group of major donors.

• Utilize our CRM software (currently using Bloomerang) to run reports, gain insight into donor giving, and plan mailings.

• Serve as staff liaison to the Development Committee and the Board of Trustees on fund development.

Snapshot of Preserve RI Philanthropy

Of Preserve RI’s annual budget of nearly $1 million, around 1/3 is generated through fundraising initiatives. Approximately 400 individuals are donors and members of Preserve RI. Our strategic plan calls for expanding individual donor giving to support and sustain our organization and increasing resources. 74% of our programs are funded by fundraising.

Salary/Compensation: Salary range: $52,000 - $55,000. This position is eligible for benefits, including a 401(3)b plan with employer match (after 1 year of service), health benefits, and paid time off (vacation, personal, and sick leave). A full list of benefits will be made available during the interview process.

Job Qualifications and Professional Skills: 

• 5+ years of experience in development or comparable field with a core competency in relationship building

• Excellent interpersonal skills

• Strong understanding of fundraising, particularly individual giving

• Experience developing, implementing, and analyzing results of a fundraising plan

• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with diverse groups of donors and volunteers

• Ability to work individually and in a team environment

• Excellent verbal and written communications skills

• Confidentiality

• Ability to manage multiple time-sensitive tasks

• Ability to develop and manage project budgets

• Competence with donor management software

Key Relationships

• Reports to the Executive Director and is a key member of Preserve RI leadership

• Works closely with the Manager of Communications and Events

To apply, please send a copy of your resume and a cover letter (addressed to Sheryl Hack, Executive Director) to jobs@preserveri.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to those submitted prior to April 27^th, 2026.