Development Director

Overview

Position Title
:
Development Director
Reports to
:
Executive Director
Expected hours per week
: 30-40 hours, depending on the selected candidate and skill set.
Location
:
Hybrid. NWLT’s office is based in Walker, MN. We are open to the position being remote, though regular travel throughout northern Minnesota will be required.
Salary
:
The minimum annual salary for the full-time, exempt position will be $82,000. This would be prorated for less than full-time.

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About Northern Waters Land Trust
NWLT is a private nonprofit organization committed to conserving north-central Minnesota’s vital natural lands and waters. For more than 30 years, NWLT has acquired and protected land to provide enduring benefits to wildlife habitat, clean water, and outdoor recreation. We primarily operate within six major watersheds in north-central Minnesota, supported by grants, donations, and public and private partnerships.

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.

• 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.

Qualifica