Development Manager

Development Manager Job Description

The Development Manager will oversee and implement LA Compost’s fundraising efforts to support its mission and vision. Reporting to the Executive Director, this role will collaborate with the Board of Directors and the Executive Director to craft and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy. Key responsibilities include developing messaging documents, preparing regular reports, and providing strategic foresight for the development department—all aligned with LA Compost’s ethos and organizational goals.

To achieve these objectives, the Development Manager will create systems, research prospective donors, and maintain accurate records in the organization’s CRM, EveryAction. They will work with the Executive Director to cultivate prospective donors, steward existing donors, and manage the administration and tracking of all donations. The Development Manager will also act as a liaison with the Board of Directors, ensuring they are equipped with the tools and training needed to engage effectively in fundraising.

Responsibilities:

The Development Manager will play a pivotal role in advancing LA Compost’s mission by driving fundraising efforts and fostering relationships that support the organization’s $2 million annual fundraising goal.

Fundraising Strategy & Planning

• Develop and implement an annual fundraising plan in partnership with the Executive Director (ED) and Board of Directors.
• Track progress toward fundraising goals and adjust strategies as needed.

Grants and Foundations

• Identify, research, cultivate, and steward relationships with foundation funders.
• Write, submit, and manage grant proposals and reports to secure and sustain foundation funding with support from the Development Coordinator.
• Monitor and report grant outcomes to ensure compliance and maintain funder relationships.

Individual Giving

• Design and execute donor acquisition campaigns to attract new individual donors.
• Develop strategies to upgrade existing donors to higher giving levels or recurring donation tiers.
• Steward individual donors with timely acknowledgment, updates, and tailored engagement.
• Coordinate end-of-year and seasonal giving campaigns.
• Collaborate with the Senior Communications Manager on external donor campaigns and messaging.

Corporate Sponsorships

• Build and maintain relationships with corporate partners to secure sponsorships and in-kind support.
• Collaborate with corporate sponsors to align giving opportunities with organizational priorities.

Fundraising Events

• Plan, organize, and execute 1–3 annual fundraising events, including one large-scale signature event.
• Collaborate with the Senior Communications Manager to promote events and maximize engagement.
• Secure event sponsorships, partnerships, and in-kind donations.
• Lead internal team coordination for event planning and day-of support.

Data and Donor Management

• Oversee donor data management using EveryAction CRM, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records.
• Process donations, generate acknowledgment letters, and maintain meticulous records for stewardship and audits.
• Track donor trends, metrics, and outcomes to refine development strategies.
• Complete and submit all funder reports with support from the Development Coordinator.

Leadership and Collaboration

• Supervise a part-time Development Coordinator, including setting work plans, conducting weekly check-ins, and assigning tasks.
• Represent LA Compost at external events, such as foundation meetings, corporate networking events, and community fundraisers.
• Integrate LA Compost staff members into fundraising efforts when appropriate.
• Attend quarterly Executive Board meetings to provide updates on fundraising initiatives and outcomes.
• Lead monthly Fundraising Committee meetings with the Board Member, Executive Director, and Senior Communications Manager.
• Meet monthly with the Senior Communications Manager to ensure synergy between fundraising and communications efforts.
• Participate in weekly administrative team meetings to align fundraising efforts with organizational goals.

Profile of the Ideal Candidate:

• 3–5 years of professional experience in nonprofit development or fundraising roles.
• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field of study.
• Proven success in securing major gifts, corporate sponsorships, and foundation grants.
• Strong writing, storytelling, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Confidence in public speaking and experience leading meetings or presentations.
• Demonstrated experience managing direct reports and fostering collaboration.
• Proficiency with CRM systems (e.g., EveryAction, Salesforce) and donor data analysis.
• Event planning and project management experience.
• Ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders, including donors, community members, and board members.
• Passion for environmental sustainability and community-driven initiatives.

To Apply:

Complete the application and upload a cover letter, resume, and an optional writing sample. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.

» Click here for application.

About LA Compost

LA Compost cultivates spaces for people to connect through compost access and soil education. Through its programs, LA Compost makes composting accessible to everyone, regardless of income, knowledge, or access to healthy food.