Charity Development Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of philanthropy, the role of a Charity Development Manager has never been more crucial.

As societal needs evolve and the desire for impactful giving rises, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals who can effectively navigate, expand, and protect our charitable landscape.

But let’s break this down: What’s truly expected from a Charity Development Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply interested in the inner workings of charity development,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Charity Development Manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Charity Development Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Charity Development Managers are primarily involved in the strategic planning and implementation of fundraising initiatives to support the charity’s objectives.

They liaise with donors and stakeholders, manage budgets, and ensure the mission of the charity is effectively communicated.

The daily duties and responsibilities of a Charity Development Manager include:

• Creating and implementing fundraising strategies to increase the charity’s financial support
• Identifying and establishing relationships with potential donors, sponsors, and partners
• Coordinating fundraising events and campaigns
• Preparing and presenting proposals to prospective donors and partners
• Managing the charity’s fundraising budget to ensure efficient use of resources
• Monitoring and reporting on fundraising activities and performance
• Maintaining accurate records of donors and ensuring all fundraising activities comply with legal requirements
• Communicating the charity’s mission, objectives, and achievements to the public, donors, and other stakeholders
• Training and supervising fundraising volunteers and staff
• Keeping abreast of trends in charitable giving and the not-for-profit sector

 

Charity Development Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for an experienced and dedicated Charity Development Manager to join our team.

This role will be responsible for developing strategies to enhance fundraising efforts, increase donor engagement and manage relationships with stakeholders.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in non-profit management, excellent leadership skills and a passion for making a difference in our community.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement fundraising strategies to increase donations and financial support
• Identify and build relationships with potential donors, including individuals, corporations, and foundations
• Coordinate events and campaigns to raise awareness and funds
• Prepare reports on fundraising efforts and donor engagement
• Manage and mentor development staff and volunteers
• Ensure compliance with laws and regulations related to fundraising and non-profit management
• Create and manage the development budget
• Promote the organization’s mission and initiatives to the public

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in non-profit management or fundraising
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with donors and stakeholders
• Knowledge of fundraising strategies and donor relations
• Understanding of non-profit laws and regulations
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Relations, or relevant field

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Charity Development Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional travel for meetings and events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of the organization.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Charity Development Manager Do?

A Charity Development Manager is a key figure in nonprofit organizations.

Their primary responsibility is to raise funds and increase the financial contributions to their organization, enabling it to achieve its mission and goals.

They develop and implement strategic plans to raise funds for their organization in a cost-effective and time-efficient manner.

This includes organizing and coordinating fundraising events, applying for grants, developing relationships with donors, and identifying new potential donors.

Charity Development Managers also work closely with the charity’s board of directors and senior staff to identify new funding opportunities and to review the effectiveness of the current fundraising strategies.

They may also work with marketing and public relations teams to promote the charity and its work to the public, enhancing its public image and increasing its visibility to potential donors.

In addition to fundraising, a Charity Development Manager may also be involved in the charity’s financial planning and budgeting processes to ensure that funds are being used effectively to benefit the charity’s cause.

Charity Development Managers are also often responsible for managing relationships with existing donors and stakeholders, maintaining a strong network of support for the charity.

Overall, the role of a Charity Development Manager is essential in ensuring the financial sustainability and growth of a charity or nonprofit organization.

 

Charity Development Manager Qualifications and Skills

A competent Charity Development Manager should have the skills and qualifications that match your job description, such as:

• Excellent strategic thinking abilities to develop and implement growth strategies for the charity.
• Strong leadership and management skills to lead a team and manage multiple projects at the same time.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills to establish and maintain relationships with donors, volunteers, staff and the community.
• Ability to effectively communicate the mission and goals of the charity to a variety of audiences.
• Superb fundraising skills to generate the necessary resources to support the charity’s programs and initiatives.
• Strong financial acumen to manage budgets and ensure effective use of resources.
• Knowledge and understanding of the non-profit sector, including compliance and regulatory requirements.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and overcome challenges that may hinder the charity’s growth or operations.
• Experience in using digital and social media platforms for marketing and fundraising purposes.
• Proven ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

 

Charity Development Manager Experience Requirements

To qualify for the role of a Charity Development Manager, candidates are typically expected to have a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in fundraising, community outreach, or a related field.

This experience should ideally be in the non-profit sector, and demonstrate a successful track record in income generation, project management and stakeholder engagement.

Entry-level candidates may have gained experience through internships or part-time roles within charitable organizations, often in roles such as fundraising assistant, community coordinator or project officer.

Experience in planning and executing fundraising campaigns, managing volunteers, or coordinating community events would be highly valuable.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience often have developed strategic skills and knowledge in managing and developing fundraising programs, donor relationship management, and strategic planning.

They may also have experience in managing teams and working closely with senior leadership and board members.

For those with over 7 years of experience, they may be ready for a senior managerial position, overseeing multiple fundraising programs, and setting the strategic direction for the charity’s development efforts.

At this level, candidates should demonstrate a deep understanding of the non-profit sector, have excellent leadership skills, and be adept at building partnerships and collaborations.

Apart from work experience, a degree in business management, social work, public relations or a related field can be beneficial.

Fundraising or non-profit management certifications can also be an added advantage.

 

Charity Development Manager Education and Training Requirements

Charity Development Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in fundraising management, business administration, public relations, marketing, or a related field.

They also need to have a strong understanding of the nonprofit sector and principles of fundraising.

Knowledge of project management and strategic planning is also beneficial.

Some positions, especially those in larger or international charities, may require Charity Development Managers with a master’s degree in nonprofit management, public administration or related fields.

Continuing education in the form of workshops, conferences, and courses can help Charity Development Managers stay updated on latest trends, techniques, and regulations in fundraising and charity management.

Some candidates may also pursue certification in fundraising or nonprofit management.

This could include the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential, which signifies a commitment to professional standards and continuing education in the field.

Having a master’s degree and/or certification may indicate a candidate’s leadership potential, a high level of commitment to the profession, and a dedication to ongoing learning.

 

Charity Development Manager Salary Expectations

A Charity Development Manager earns an average salary of $61,287 (USD) per year.

However, this can vary widely depending on years of experience, size and funding of the charity, as well as the geographical location of the organization.

 

Charity Development Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Charity Development Manager need?

A Charity Development Manager should possess strong leadership and management skills to effectively guide the organization towards its fundraising goals.

They should also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills for dealing with donors, volunteers and staff members.

Additionally, knowledge of strategic planning, project management and budgeting is vital.

A strong understanding of marketing and public relations is beneficial too, as this helps to promote the organization and its causes.

 

Do Charity Development Managers need a degree?

While not always required, many employers prefer Charity Development Managers to have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as business management, marketing, or nonprofit management.

Work experience in a similar role or in the nonprofit sector can sometimes substitute for formal education.

 

What should you look for in a Charity Development Manager resume?

A Charity Development Manager’s resume should highlight their experience in fundraising and development.

Look for a proven track record of successful fundraising campaigns and strategic planning.

Leadership experience, particularly in a nonprofit setting, is also crucial.

Strong communication skills and experience managing relationships with donors, volunteers, and staff should be evident.

 

What qualities make a good Charity Development Manager?

A good Charity Development Manager should be mission-driven and passionate about the cause they represent.

They should be strategic thinkers, capable of developing and implementing effective fundraising plans.

Strong leadership skills, excellent communication, and the ability to build and maintain relationships are also key qualities.

They should also be adaptable, able to respond to changing circumstances and find new opportunities for funding.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Charity Development Manager?

Hiring a Charity Development Manager can be challenging, as the role requires a unique blend of skills, including fundraising, leadership, strategic planning, and relationship building.

Additionally, it’s crucial to find a candidate who is genuinely passionate about your organization’s cause.

To attract the right candidate, you should offer competitive salaries and benefits and emphasize the meaningfulness and impact of the work.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unpacked the true essence of what it means to be a Charity Development Manager.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about collecting donations.

It’s about shaping a better world, one charitable project at a time.

Equipped with our prime Charity Development Manager job description template and real-world instances, you’re poised to make a difference.

But why pause there?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously curated job listings or refining your resume to absolute perfection.

Remember:

Every charitable project contributes to a bigger purpose.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become a Charity Development Manager (Complete Guide)

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