Fundraising Development

Position: Development Manager
Organization: Oldman Watershed Council
Location: Hybrid position: Fully virtual or local candidates are all welcome to apply. Some travel to OWC office in Lethbridge will be required.

About us:
The Oldman Watershed Council (OWC) is a collaborative forum for all voices, dedicated to promoting watershed health through education, action, and stewardship. Our work is unique in the environmental sector, driven by a commitment to innovation and community engagement.

Position Overview:

Are you ready to step into a unique role that requires strategic leadership and the ability to think big? The OWC is looking for a Development Manager who thrives on creating new programs and finding innovative solutions to complex challenges. This opportunity is ideal for someone seeking a career change or a new challenge within the environmental sector in Alberta.

Work Environment:

• Flexible hours, negotiable up to 36.25 hours per week.
• Option to work remotely with periodic travel to the watershed, or at our office in Lethbridge.
• Join a small, friendly team of seven staff members who will work closely with you to achieve our goals.

Compensation:

• $80,000 per year (36.25 hours/week)
• 3 weeks paid vacation
• Health benefits

What We're Looking For:

• Experience: 5+ years in grant management, donor relations, or related fields, with a proven track record of securing grants and/or donations.
• Communication: Exceptional writing skills, particularly in crafting compelling stories and environmental grant applications.
• Knowledge: A solid understanding of environmental science, sector-specific language, and Southern Alberta culture, with the ability to effectively communicate with residents.
• Relationship Building: Strong diplomatic skills with the ability to build and maintain positive relationships with donors, grantors, and partners.
• Tech Savvy: Proficiency in MS Office, Google Apps, and ideally eTapestry.
• Organizational Skills: Highly organized with excellent time management and the ability to meet deadlines.
• Flexibility: Willingness to work evenings and weekends as required.
• Other Requirements: A valid driver’s license and the ability to travel throughout the watershed.

Candidates with less experience or qualifications may be considered at a lower compensation rate.

Key Responsibilities:

Grant Management (30%):

• Collaborate with the project lead and accountant to write compelling grant applications and reports.
• Maintain positive relationships with grantors, organizing tours or events to showcase achievements.
• Coordinate with partners to secure deliverables, letters of support, and in-kind donations.

Donor Relationships (25%):

• Engage with current and past donors on a quarterly basis, sharing accomplishments and inviting them to events.
• Write inspiring stories for newsletters and emails to encourage donations.
• Design 1-2 creative donation campaigns annually in coordination with the Communications Manager.
• Ensure proper donor recognition and stewardship, maintaining accountability and database management with the Office Manager.
• Be comfortable asking for gifts in person and making cold calls.

Government Relations (15%):

• Assist the Executive Director in advocating for watershed issues and securing funding for natural infrastructure restoration programs.
• Organize tours, meetings, and events to build relationships with and influence elected officials.

Building Partnerships (15%):

• Identify and engage with potential partners, such as post-secondary institutions, to collaborate on project components like monitoring or research.
• Develop Memorandums of Understanding between partners.

Developing New Funding Models (15%):

• Research innovative funding models, including carbon/biodiversity credits and conservation finance.
• Recommend and assist in implementing strategies to diversify OWC’s funding sources.

Why Join OWC?

This is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to be part of something truly unique. At OWC, we’re building capacity, thinking big, and leading innovative efforts to protect our watershed. If you’re ready to take on a unique role that challenges you and makes a real difference, we’d love to hear from you.

Please submit your cover letter and resume as a single PDF file, titled “OWC Development Manager YOUR NAME,” to Shannon Frank, OWC’s Executive Director, at Shannon@oldmanwatershed.ca .

Please indicate you saw this posting at GoodWork.ca.

For more information about this opportunity, visit our website at http://www.oldmanwatershed.ca. We appreciate all applications, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Thank you for your interest in joining our team!