Senior Development Manager, Education Programs

Are you a visionary leader with a proven track record in fundraising, strategic partnerships, and scaling mission-driven initiatives? Do you thrive at the intersection of sustainability and education, leveraging your network to drive transformative impact?

SEI is seeking an exceptional Senior Development Manager to lead and expand our fundraising efforts for our education programs, Energize Schools, Energize Colleges, and Climate Corps Education Outside. This role is ideal for a seasoned fundraising professional with deep connections in philanthropy, government, and corporate partnerships who can drive large-scale funding initiatives and program growth. As a key member of SEI’s leadership team, you will set ambitious development goals, cultivate high-impact partnerships, and position SEI as a national leader in sustainability education. This is an opportunity to shape the future of innovative climate and education programs while working alongside a dedicated team committed to sustainability and equity.

This position offers flexibility, with remote work available for candidates anywhere in the U.S. For those based in the San Francisco Bay Area, we offer a hybrid schedule (2 days in-office, 3 days remote) to support both collaboration and work-life balance.

If you’re a strategic, results-driven development leader ready to make a lasting impact, we want to hear from you. Apply today and help us scale our mission.

The Impact You’ll Make

• Led efforts to reach fundraising targets for SEI’s education departments (Energize Schools, Energize Colleges, and Climate Corps Education Outside), including re-engaging existing funders, expanding current contracts, and responding to fundraising opportunities.
• Develop strategic relationships and partnerships to grow the program’s portfolio of work.
• Work with leadership to advance SEI’s mission and impact, including collaborating with program department heads to set overall program vision and goals for 1, 3, and 5 years.
• Set and oversee development, partnership, and fundraising goals for all education programs.
• Partner with Marcom to grow SEI’s reputation as a leading force in our industry.
• Identify, prepare for, and participate in conferences and events to support network building, partnership development, and organizational reach.
• Maintain and develop partner and funder relationships. Represent SEI on a state and national level.
• Coordinate with Education Department Heads to ensure program infrastructure is in place for all new projects or growth opportunities.
• Oversee progress toward goals and budgeting related to fundraising targets. Contribute to annual and quarterly Education Program budgets and all associated project budgets in collaboration with Education Department Heads, Accounting team, and Strategy team.
• Support contracting and related negotiations for new engagements.
• Ensure relevant staff appropriately utilize all applicable tools and technologies to support program success.
• Equip staff members with roles and responsibilities that contribute to development efforts.
• Support staff members in identifying and escalating development issues and growing their capacity to support fundraising, development, and partnership building.
• Collaborate with the Education Department Heads on program growth initiatives such as expansion into new regions, and work across the organization to design, build, and implement new engagements.

What You Bring

We encourage anyone interested in this position to apply, even if they do not meet all of the qualifications. We recognize that a unique perspective and background can enhance a role when many, if not all, of the listed qualifications are met.

• A background or degree in climate, sustainability, education, or nonprofit.
• Extensive experience in fundraising, development, and strategic planning, with a proven ability to drive large-scale initiatives and build partnerships in the education sector.
• Significant experience in a leadership role overseeing projects or programs, preferably in the nonprofit or sustainability sectors.
• Strong track record in program design, strategy development, and scaling initiatives to expand impact.
• Strong leadership skills with a commitment to transparency, mentorship, and accountability for team success.
• Advanced communication and collaboration skills, including active listening, empathy, and clarity, fostering productive relationships and partnerships.
• Skilled at networking, public speaking, and leading group presentations, with a track record of building and maintaining strong external relationships.
• Exceptional organizational, analytical, and creative problem-solving abilities, focusing on goal-setting, meeting deadlines, and accountability.
• Familiarity with Salesforce. Comfortable learning and using other SEI digital tools, including but not limited to Google Workspace and Asana project management software.
• Able to manage a regularly changing work environment and collaborate with geographically dispersed team members.
• Commitment to a fair workplace that honors the experiences, voices, viewpoints, and values of all individuals.
• Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and a commitment to SEI’s mission and values.

What We Provide

• Greater work-life balance and better personal well-being. The flexibility to work remotely for candidates anywhere in the U.S. For those based in the San Francisco Bay Area, we offer a hybrid schedule (2 days in-office, 3 days remote) to support both collaboration and work-life balance.
• The annual starting salary ranges from $90,000 to $96,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Generous paid time off, including 2 weeks vacation, 14 paid holidays, and sick time.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, with substantial employer contributions for both employees and their dependents.
• 403(b) Retirement Plan.
• The chance to excel in your strengths, working in areas where you're naturally talented and professionally trained.
• A fair and inclusive workplace dedicated to making real and meaningful changes.

Who Are We?

SEI is a teams-based, non-profit organization dedicated to building leaders who accelerate climate solutions. Through our Education and Workforce programs, we partner with schools, communities, and businesses to develop inclusive and just sustainability leadership pathways from elementary school to early career. Our team is collaborative, creative, and united by a shared purpose. Join us in making a significant impact as we drive our mission forward!

Our Hiring Values

SEI is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to uplifting the experiences, voices, viewpoints, and values of all individuals. We believe that a wide array of perspectives contributes to creative climate solutions where all communities can thrive. We strive for a workforce that reflects the communities we partner with and serve, especially those most impacted by climate change and environmental, social, and economic injustice. We welcome candidates who share SEI’s commitment to cultivating a people-centered work environment. Individuals from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.