Development Manager

Development Manager — Howe Library Corporation

The Howe Library Corporation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supporting the Howe Library in Hanover, New Hampshire, is seeking a Development Manager to lead its fundraising and donor engagement programs. This is an exciting opportunity to join a beloved public library and make a meaningful impact on library services, community engagement, and future capital development.

About the Role
The Development Manager plays a key role in shaping and advancing our fundraising strategy, overseeing a comprehensive program that includes individual and corporate giving, institutional support, sponsorships, annual campaigns, capital campaign projects, and cultivation and fundraising events. This role also leads donor stewardship efforts—identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding gifts—ensuring meaningful relationships and lasting impact across all giving initiatives. Working closely with library staff and the Board of Trustees, the Development Manager will design and execute development strategies that reflect and advance the Howe Library’s mission and strategic goals.

Position Details

• Status: In-Person Full-time salaried 
• Salary: Starting at $60,000, commensurate with experience
• Benefits: Paid leave and a stipend to support health insurance and related benefits

This position will remain open until filled.

JOB DESCRIPTION-Howe Library Corporation Development Manager Position

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

The responsibilities of the Development Manager require demonstrated success in generating contributed revenue for organizational initiatives through individual, corporate, government, and foundation giving. Regular development contact (written and verbal) with donors, Trustees, staff, and the community requires that the incumbent have excellent written and oral communications and interpersonal skills. A bachelor’s degree (graduate degree or equivalent experience preferred)

The successful candidate will bring:

• A strong appreciation for the mission and values of public libraries
• Positive energy, creativity, and a sense of humor
• Leadership experience and a collaborative approach to decision-making
• Strong relationship-building skills with funders, partners, and stakeholders
• Proven success in fundraising strategy and donor engagement
• Experience managing complex projects and meeting deadlines
• The ability to align development efforts with organizational goals
• Comfort with technology and donor databases
• A service-oriented mindset and professional presence

In addition, the following are desirable:

• Experience working in a nonprofit environment
• Experience organizing fundraising and cultivation events
• Experience with capital campaigns 

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position is performed in a busy public library setting and requires regular use of technology. The role also requires the ability to work independently and manage time effectively.

NATURE & SCOPE

Critical responsibilities of the Development Manager include those outlined below:

• Lead and manage The Howe Library’s development efforts and long-range development strategy.
• Prepare annual fundraising goals, plans, and budgets in consultation with the Library Director and Development Chair.
• Design, implement, and manage all fundraising activities including two annual giving campaigns, sponsorship opportunities and processes, major donor strategy.
• Serve as a leadership thought partner with the Library Director and Board leadership teams to identify, cultivate, and solicit individual, foundation, government, and corporate support for targeted library initiatives, programs, exhibits, and campaigns that serve the needs of Hanover community.
• Manage all strategies and activities for donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Work collaboratively with the development committee on funder communications, including annual appeals, fundraising collateral, and proposals.
• Perform detailed record management for donors and funders.
• Provide reports to the Library Director and Board of Trustees, including annual and monthly fundraising goals and progress.

The Director of Development will:

• Work to directly cultivate and steward authentic and strong relationships with a broad range of people in the community, staff, and the Board of Trustees.
• Maintain a high degree of accountability and confidentiality regarding donor prospect and stewardship activity, and library patron records. The Development Manager shall adhere to the principles stated in Donor Bill of Rights established by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights.
• Keeps current in the professional field and pursues professional development opportunities related to development and advancement within libraries or non-profits as appropriate.
• Participates in maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for fellow staff and library users.