PROJECT SAGE IS HIRING
Development Manager
Location: Lakeville, CT | Full-time, Exempt (37.5 hrs/week, on-site)
JOB DESCRIPTION
Who We Are
Project SAGE is a domestic violence prevention education agency in northwest Connecticut. Our mission is to create social change by challenging attitudes and beliefs about power, control, and gender norms. We envision a world where everyone can be themselves, have healthy relationships, and live free from interpersonal relationship violence. We are a compassionate, committed team working toward a safer, more just future.
At Project SAGE, every role contributes to building healthy relationships—both internally and externally in our community. As a small team, all staff members are expected to contribute to the overall functioning and wellbeing of the agency. Our core principles are: cooperation and mutual respect, collaboration and communication, and strength in diversity.
Who You Are
As the Development Manager, you are the lynchpin of the development department, weaving it all together. You embody a unique blend of project management acumen and relationship building skills. You naturally see how all pieces of a project interconnect and can anticipate ripple effects from changes or delays. You revel in creating comprehensive project plans while also embracing flexibility when reality doesn’t match the plan. You are a proactive problem solver. You maintain composure, communicate changes clearly and are steady under pressure. You delight in using your extensive project managing skills to keep complex initiatives on track. You are meticulous about tracking and data. You dig into metrics to understand what’s resonating. You use data to refine approaches. You maintain comprehensive reports and your goal is to never let important touchpoints fall through the cracks. You maintain optimism and can reframe setbacks as learning opportunities. You value working collaboratively with colleagues to ensure accurate gift processing and aligned focus on strategic priorities. You have a sophisticated blend of social intelligence and genuine confidence and are comfortable in a variety of settings, from a foundation boardroom to a casual donor tea to a special access fundraiser. You are an enthusiastic storyteller who is passionate about using narrative to make connections and share information. You are a natural collaborator who loves to engage with other staff members and volunteers. You are committed to being in service together to share the mission and vision of Project SAGE.
What You Will Do
Reporting to the Executive Director, you will be responsible for project managing and implementing the comprehensive fundraising plan as visioned by the Executive Director and Board of Directors.
Program Planning Implementation and Administration: (50%-60%) Project manage the creation and implementation of the annual development plan and calendar. Fundraising initiatives included in the plan are individual giving (including major gifts) , corporate sponsorships, grants and foundation giving, planned giving, special events, (including our annual signature fundraiser, Trade Secrets) and completion of our capital campaign for our building renovation project.
Staff Supervision/Consultant Oversight: (25%-35%) Supervises development associate and oversees consultants in ways that promote quality delivery of programs, fulfill contractual requirements, encourage professional development of staff and create a collaborative environment. The development team includes a grants consultant, a Trade Secrets coordinator, a database consultant and a development associate who focuses on donor engagement.
Agency Requirements (5-10%): You will collaborate with each department as necessary and participate in agency-wide meetings, events, and trainings
What You Will Bring
We are looking for someone who:
Has a flexible, problem-solving mindset and enjoys taking on new challenges
Keeps projects on track and is deadline driven
Maintains a warm, compassionate and professional demeanor, contributing to a positive office atmosphere
Exercises discretion and integrity, managing sensitive and confidential information appropriately
Is enthusiastic about and committed to Project SAGE’s mission and values
Prioritizes clarity and accuracy in all communications
Is diligent in follow-through with a growth mindset
Is tactical and execution-focused
Pays meticulous attention to detail with superb organizational skills
Has a high level of mental agility in processing and retaining information
Prioritizes clarity and accuracy in all communications
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree, professional designation as a Certified Fundraising Executive a plus, or equivalent life experience
4+ years experience as a development professional
Demonstrated history of success as an efficient project manager
Systems thinker with hands on experience with donor database software, Microsoft Office suite and Google Workspace.
Preferred Qualifications
Demonstrated history of success as an effective supervisor
Experience in grant research and writing proposals
Experience in overseeing budgets and ensuring on-time, on-budget implementation
Special Requirements
Willingness to answer and direct agency hotline calls when advocates are unavailable (training provided)
Willingness to drive for agency-related reasons which requires a valid driver’s license and insurance. Agency vehicle may be available for use or mileage will be reimbursed
Flexibility to work outside normal hours as needed
Physical Expectations
Ability to sit or stand at a desk for extended periods, lift up to 20 pounds occasionally and move around the office (including using stairs).
We are happy to make reasonable accommodations for qualified candidates with disabilities.
We Offer
Compensation: The salary range for this position is $65,000-$70,000. The successful candidate’s starting salary will be determined commensurate with experience, competencies, and skillset
Schedule: Full-time, exempt, 37.5 hours/week on-site at our Lakeville, CT office, with opportunity for WFH eligibility
Benefits: Up to 20 days of paid time off per year, 11 federal paid holidays, 12 Sick and Wellness days, health and dental insurance, flexible spending account, retirement plan with 4% employer match, and life insurance
Meaningful Work: An opportunity to help survivors rebuild their lives and contribute to lasting change in the community
Supportive Culture: A workplace rooted in compassion, collaboration, inclusion, and courage — where your work is valued, and your growth is supported
How to Apply
Please send your resume and a brief cover letter to careers@project-sage.org with the subject: Development Manager
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every single qualification. If you’re enthusiastic about the role and our mission, we want to hear from you!
Project SAGE is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.