Northern Waters Land Trust | Walker, MN
Salary Range: $82,000
Position Summary:
NWLT is seeking a senior-level Development Director to take the organization to the next level. The Development Director will lead and implement NWLT’s fundraising efforts. This position will be responsible for building relationships with donors and generating sustainable revenue streams through individual giving, private grants, major gifts, corporate sponsors, and donor stewardship. The ideal candidate should be able to bring demonstrated success in securing five-figure or larger gifts and lasting donor relationships. This is a key position on a small team, best suited for a self-starter with experience in nonprofit fundraising who is motivated to grow NWLT’s fundraising and visibility.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Fundraising and Donor Development
Competencies: Fundraising, Strategic Thinking, Relationship Building, Communication
- Develop and implement an annual fundraising plan that aligns with NWLT’s strategic goals.
- Cultivate and manage a portfolio of individual, foundation, and business donors.
- Build relationships with key funders and prospective donors, with a focus on securing sustainable and long-term gifts.
- Build a corporate sponsorship program
- Solicit gifts directly and prepare leadership and board members to do so as well.
- Coordinate and manage appeals, campaigns, and donor recognition efforts.
- Work closely with staff to identify fundraising opportunities tied to land protection projects and organizational priorities.
- Collaborate with contractors or staff managing communications to develop compelling donor messaging and impact reporting.
- Plan and support donor engagement events, both virtual and in-person.
Fundraising Operations and Reporting
Competencies: Project Management, Attention to Detail, Data Tracking
- Track and analyze fundraising metrics to inform strategy and decision-making.
- Manage and maintain donor records and ensure compliance with donor intent, ethical fundraising practices, and gift acknowledgment protocols.
- Assist in preparing grant reports and proposals, as needed.
- Prepare regular fundraising updates and reports for the Executive Director, Development & Outreach Committee, and NWLT Board.
Board and Committee Engagement
Competencies: Collaboration, Facilitation, Communication
- Staff and coordinate the Development & Outreach Committee, including preparing meeting materials, facilitating discussions, and following up on action items.
- Work with the Executive Director and Development & Outreach Committee to engage board members in fundraising.
- Support board members in making personal asks and stewarding relationships.
- Prepare development materials and updates for committee and board meetings.
Qualifications
Essential
- Demonstrated success in nonprofit fundraising, including securing and stewarding individual gifts (including five-figure gifts)
- Ability to develop and execute strategic fundraising plans.
- Proven communication and relationship-building skills.
- Experience with donor databases or CRM systems is preferred.
- Self-directed, organized, and able to work independently and collaboratively.
Preferred
- Knowledge of land and water conservation.
- Ties to northern Minnesota
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
This position can be remote or hybrid, with periodic in-person meetings, donor visits, and events throughout north-central Minnesota area (with primary focus on Aitkin, Cass, Crow Wing, and Hubbard counties) and the Minnesota Metro. Work involves standard office activities such as computer use, attending meetings, and phone/video conferencing.
Compensation and Benefits
Competitive Salary: The minimum annual salary for the full-time, exempt position will be $82,000. This would be prorated for less than full-time.
Health Insurance: NWLT provides a health insurance package for eligible employees.
Paid Time Off: Includes 10-20 days of vacation (dependent on experience), 6 days of sick leave, 11 holidays, and bereavement leave.
Expense Reimbursement: Mileage, cell phone use, other travel expenses, and internet expenses are reimbursed to support remote work and related activities.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional reference contacts to:
Northern Waters Land Trust
Attn: Annie Knight, Executive Director
Subject Line: Development Director Application, [First & Last Name]
Email: AnnieK@nwlt-mn.org
Questions may be directed to:
Annie Knight, Executive Director Email: AnnieK@nwlt-mn.org Phone: (218) 547-4510