Director of Development

Director of Development
Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (RMBL)
Crested Butte, Colorado

About RMBL

The Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (RMBL) is one of the nation’s leading independent field research stations, dedicated to advancing the understanding of biological processes in a rapidly changing environment. Located in the spectacular Elk Mountains near Crested Butte, Colorado, RMBL supports world‑class research, education, and community engagement focused on climate change, ecosystems, and alpine environments. This is a rare and exciting opportunity for an experienced development leader to combine meaningful work with an exceptional lifestyle—living and working in a vibrant mountain community while helping to shape the future of field science.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the overall development vision and campaign strategy, including planning and execution of RMBL’s Centennial Campaign
• Partner with the Executive Director, Board, along with the Development and Communications teams to shape and drive fundraising strategy, with a focus on major gifts and campaign priorities
• Identify and advance new funding opportunities across individual donors, foundations, and strategic partnerships
• Develop and guide campaign frameworks and fundraising initiatives aligned with RMBL’s long‑term goals
• Provide strategic oversight of annual fundraising efforts, including the Annual Appeal and year‑round giving strategy, with demonstrated ability to create a written strategic plan and execute it, for both annual and capital campaigns
• Set direction for fundraising events to ensure they are intentional, high‑impact, and aligned with donor engagement goals
• Oversee growth and strategy for the Explorer Program, strengthening donor engagement and progression across giving levels
• Establish and implement development best practices, systems, and standard operating procedures
• Ensure development is fully integrated into organizational planning, including finance, operations, and institutional priorities
• Collaborate across departments to align fundraising with RMBL’s science, education, and community initiatives
• Partner with communications to elevate RMBL’s storytelling, visibility, and national and global reach
• Oversee donor database strategy and infrastructure to ensure strong tracking, reporting, and long‑term engagement

• Partner closely with the Communications Manager and across departments to develop and implement strategic messaging that aligns with RMBL’s mission, priorities, and campaign goals
• Ensure consistency and clarity across all external communications, including donor materials, digital platforms, media, and campaign messaging
• Guide high‑level storytelling to elevate RMBL’s visibility, impact, and national presence
• Collaborate on integrated communications strategies that support fundraising, community engagement, and brand positioning
• Provide strategic oversight to ensure communications efforts effectively translate RMBL’s science and impact for diverse audiences

• Lead and support a small Development and Communications team in day‑to‑day fundraising operations and strategic communications, providing coaching and leading by example within a small team environment
• Provide clear direction, prioritization, and strategic guidance to ensure alignment with development goals
• Oversee performance tracking and analysis, including donor trends, campaign progress, and revenue outcomes
• Guide the development and management of donor pipelines across all giving levels
• Ensure effective execution of donor cultivation, stewardship, and engagement strategies
• Mentor and support team members, fostering professional development and growth along with strong cross‑functional coordination
• Promote alignment across events, database management, donor communications, and stewardship activities

• 5+ years of progressive experience in nonprofit fundraising, including major gifts and campaign leadership, with successful capital campaigns
• Demonstrated success leading complex fundraising strategies and achieving ambitious revenue goals
• Strong partnership skills…