Development Manager

Development Manager

Mississippi Park Connection is seeking an experienced Development Manager to lead the implementation of an ambitious vision for philanthropy. MPC recently completed a comprehensive development plan that provides a roadmap for strengthening individual giving, corporate partnerships, foundation support, donor stewardship, and long-term organizational sustainability. Working closely with the Executive Director, the Development Manager will lead implementation of this plan while providing leadership for MPC's growing development team.

They will directly supervise the Development Specialist and will play a key role in shaping the future growth and structure of MPC's development team.

This position is ideal for a fundraiser who enjoys both strategy and execution. The Development Manager will build meaningful relationships with donors, foundations, corporations, and community partners while translating MPC's development strategy into measurable philanthropic growth, sustainable fundraising systems, and a strong culture of philanthropy. This is an opportunity to join an organization where fundraising is viewed not simply as revenue generation, but as building a community of people committed to protecting and connecting others to the Mississippi River.

Priority Final date to receive applications is August 3, 2026, with rolling applications accepted until the position is filled. The anticipated start date for this position is September 7, 2026.

Development Leadership & Strategy

Provide leadership for Mississippi Park Connection's growing development program while implementing the organization's comprehensive development plan.

• Translate MPC's comprehensive development plan into annual priorities, fundraising initiatives, and measurable outcomes.
• Supervise, coach, and support development staff, including the Development Specialist.
• Establish annual fundraising priorities, work plans, and goals.
• Monitor fundraising performance and recommend strategic adjustments.
• Prepare reports and updates for the Executive Director, Development Committee, and Board of Directors.
• Help strengthen the development team through continuous improvement of fundraising systems, processes and practices.

Individual Giving & Major Gifts

Grow and strengthen MPC's individual giving program by cultivating meaningful donor relationships and expanding annual, leadership, and major giving opportunities.

• Develop and implement annual giving, membership, and major gift strategies.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward individual donors.
• Partner with the Executive Director on major donor cultivation and solicitation.
• Coordinate annual fundraising campaigns and donor appeals.
• Support the development of planned giving initiatives.
• Manage donor portfolios, moves management activities, and prospect strategies.

Corporate & Foundation Partnerships

Expand philanthropic support through corporate partnerships, foundation relationships, grants, and sponsorship opportunities.

• Cultivate and steward corporate and foundation relationships.
• Research and pursue institutional funding opportunities.
• Provide strategic oversight for grant writing and grant stewardship in partnership with the Development Specialist, communications team, and program staff.
• Develop sponsorship opportunities for organizational events and initiatives.
• Build long-term partnerships that advance both mission and fundraising goals.

Events, Donor Stewardship & Engagement

Lead fundraising events and create meaningful experiences that inspire lasting relationships with Mississippi Park Connection and the Mississippi River.

• Provide leadership for MPC's fundraising events, including planning, sponsorship, and donor engagement.
• Coordinate fundraising events in collaboration with staff, volunteers, vendors, and community partners.
• Design and implement donor stewardship and recognition strategies.
• Partner with communications staff to share compelling stories of impact.
• Support Board engagement in fundraising and donor stewardship.
• Ensure timely acknowledgement and recognition of donor contributions.

Development Systems & Operations

Develop and strengthen the systems, processes, and…