Development Manager - Engage! Cleveland
Engage! Cleveland
Position Title: Development Manager
Job Type: Full-time
Office Environment: Hybrid – 50% in-office (3135 Euclid Ave., Suite 103, Cleveland, OH 44115) and 50% remote (subject to change). Includes participation in offsite programs and events.
Job Summary
The Development Manager will lead efforts to grow and maintain revenue streams and strategic relationships for the organization. This role combines fundraising, membership development, sponsorship acquisition, and relationship management to ensure organizational sustainability and member engagement. The individual will manage employer memberships, sponsorships, grants, fundraising campaigns, and in-kind partnerships while fostering strong connections with members, sponsors, and partners. Responsibilities include CRM oversight and committee support. This position requires a proactive, detail-oriented professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and can balance multiple priorities.
Primary Responsibilities
Membership Development & Retention
- Develop and manage a pipeline of membership prospects from for-profit and nonprofit sectors.
- Sell memberships, onboard new members, and ensure smooth transition to events and marketing teams.
- Coordinate and lead employer membership meetings; maintain regular contact to ensure engagement and retention.
- Host multiple touchpoint meetings throughout the year and create annual “Year-in-Review” reports for employer members.
- Manage membership renewals and implement strategies to increase retention and engagement.
- Research and secure in-kind membership trades and ensure proper reporting.
Sponsorship Acquisition & Stewardship
- Lead sponsorship sales cycle: prospect, secure, and transition to events/marketing for execution.
- Develop sponsorship materials and collaborate with Marketing on design.
- Build and maintain sponsor relationships through consistent communication and check-ins.
- Track all sponsorship activities in CRM and coordinate tax receipts with accounting.
Committee & Council Support
- Manage and support Development Committee, Employer Relations Committee and Leadership Council.
- Prepare agendas, materials, presentations, and follow-up notes for meetings.
- Encourage board and committee involvement in fundraising and relationship-building.
- Onboard and engage Leadership Council members.
CRM Oversight
- Maintain accurate records of all outreach, engagement, and financial transactions in CRM.
- Log meeting notes, manage follow-ups, and run reports to support development activities.
Fundraising & Grant Management
- Research, draft, and submit grant proposals to philanthropic and corporate organizations.
- Develop and execute fundraising campaigns, including scholarship initiatives.
- Cultivate relationships with the philanthropic community through meetings and outreach.
Event Support
- Provide day-of event assistance, including logistics and registration.
- Deliver brief remarks and thank sponsors during events.
- Review post-event data and use towards prospecting and for sponsorship thank yous.
Required Skills & Abilities
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills; strong public speaking ability.
- Exceptional organizational and time-management skills with attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong interpersonal skills to engage and influence diverse stakeholders.
- Proficiency in CRM systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and Google Docs.
- Collaborative team player with problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work occasional evenings/weekends and travel locally for events.
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business, sales, or related field.
- 2–5 years of experience in development, fundraising, or membership management.
- Nonprofit experience highly preferred.
Physical Requirements
- Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Ability to transport self and materials to offsite events; physical stamina for multi-day events.
Salary Range: Commensurate with experience. Please include salary requirements in your cover letter.
To Apply: Please submit your cover letter, resume, and salary requirements to Michael@engagecleveland.org with the subject “Development Manager.” Resumes will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, and applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
*Our organization offers a stipend for health benefits, which can be purchased independently.*