Director of Development

Development Director | Geneva Lake Conservancy | Walworth County, WI | Hybrid/On-site

Geneva Lake Conservancy is seeking a strategic, relationship-driven Development Director to lead and grow a comprehensive fundraising program at a pivotal moment for land and water conservation in the Geneva Lake region.

Since 1977, GLC has protected the glacial lakes, forests, wetlands, working farmlands, and scenic corridors of Walworth County. Today, we protect 3,745 acres through conservation easements, land ownership, and partnerships, while engaging the community through public nature preserves and programs such as Conservation@Home and Keep It Blue.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced fundraising leader to build lasting donor relationships, strengthen board and community engagement, and help scale annual contributed revenue from approximately $1 million toward $2–3 million over the next five years.

• Lead a multi-year fundraising strategy aligned with GLC’s mission, growth goals, and conservation priorities.
• Manage and grow a portfolio of major donors, including cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of five- and six-figure gifts.
• Partner with the Executive Director and Board members on donor strategy, prospect development, and fundraising committee engagement.
• Oversee grants, foundation and corporate partnerships, fundraising events, donor communications, and development operations.
• Supervise and support one full-time development staff member while helping foster a positive, accountable, mission-driven team culture.

• 5–7+ years of progressive nonprofit fundraising experience, with demonstrated success securing major gifts.
• Strong relationship-building skills and comfort working with donors, board members, volunteers, staff, and community partners.
• Experience developing fundraising plans, managing donor pipelines, writing grants, and using CRM systems to track progress and results.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills, sound judgment, and a collaborative leadership style.
• Interest in land conservation, environmental stewardship, community impact, or mission-driven nonprofit work.

Salary range is $85,000–$110,000, commensurate with experience.

• up to a 3% employer retirement match
• monthly healthcare stipend
• cell phone stipend
• paid time off
• professional development support

Geneva Lake Conservancy is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal and Wisconsin employment laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants.

Since 1977, Geneva Lake Conservancy has protected the glacial lakes, forests, wetlands, working farmlands, and scenic corridors of Walworth County. Today, GLC protects 3,745 acres through conservation easements, land ownership, and partnerships, and engages residents and visitors through six public nature preserves and community programs such as Conservation@Home and Keep It Blue. GLC was named the 2020 Land Trust of the Year by Gathering Waters Wisconsin.

• December 5 | Holly Ball — Holiday gala with dinner, dancing, and silent auction