Development Manager

Portsmouth Historical Society invites a mission-driven, strategic fundraising leader to shape and grow the development program of this beloved cultural institution. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced development professional who values flexibility, autonomy, and impact. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Development Manager (40 hours/week, flexible schedule) will lead donor cultivation, oversee fundraising initiatives, and build lasting community relationships that support the organization’s growth and sustainability.

The ideal candidate will bring strong skills in donor cultivation, membership management, grant writing, and event-based fundraising, along with the ability to adapt to the evolving landscape of fundraising for local history organizations. This includes managing the annual fundraising calendar, coordinating donor communications, maintaining accurate donor records, and leading fundraising events and initiatives. The Development Manager will partner with the Executive Director and Board of Trustees to build a culture of philanthropy.
 

Fundraising, Membership, and Stewardship

• Lead the design and execution of our fundraising strategy aligned with organizational goals
• Manage individual giving, including appeals, campaigns, renewals, acknowledgments, and stewardship
• Oversee the membership program (approx. 400 members), including benefits, events, recruitment, and retention
• Conduct prospect research and implement strategies to convert visitors and contacts into donors and members
• Autonomy to innovate and implement new donor engagement methods
• Manage and expand the corporate sponsorship program, including outreach and fulfillment
• Maintain accurate donor records using Little Green Light; generate reports and donor communications
• Write and manage grant proposals, reports, and tracking
• Support the implementation of a planned giving program

Fundraising Events & Community Engagement

• Plan and execute key fundraising events, including the Preview Party & Silent Auction, Art in Bloom, and other donor/membership events
• Collaborate with the team to identify and implement giving opportunities during high-traffic public events
• Serve as staff liaison to the Development Committee and support Board engagement in fundraising efforts

General Support

• Support visitor engagement strategies that align with fundraising and membership goals
• Assist with general operations and visitor services, as needed, during peak periods or special events

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of professional experience in nonprofit fundraising and development
• Demonstrated success with donor cultivation, event planning, grant writing, and database management
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Availability on select nights and weekends, as needed for fundraisers, events, and donor meetings
• Strong organizational abilities and the capacity to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• A self-starter who thrives in a team environment and embraces a collaborative work culture
• Experience with Little Green Light or other donor CRM software preferred
• Enthusiasm for local history, arts, and community engagement

Benefits & Work Environment

• Salary range: $50,000-$52,000 per year
• Health benefits
• Paid holidays, vacation, and personal time
• Flexible schedule, including some remote work if desired
• Reduced winter schedule (January–March): 32-hour workweek at full salary
• Opportunities for professional development and deep community engagement
• A supportive, creative team in a values-driven workplace