Development Director: Lead Donor Strategy & Growth

Water's Edge Ministries (formerly Green Lake Lutheran Ministries); Spicer (MN); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Water's Edge Ministries (WEM) in Minnesota seeks a Director of Development to lead and grow our fundraising operations, partnering with the Executive Director to advance the ministry's mission. You will design a comprehensive development strategy, manage a donor portfolio of 100+, supervise staff, strengthen systems, and build long-term capacity through training and engagement.

This hands-on role requires travel throughout the region, a Christian faith commitment, and a proven ability to inspire

Qualifications

• Christian faith and the ability to authentically represent WEM and its mission.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to inspire donors and partners.
• Strategic, analytical, and operational ability to set goals, manage budgets, and evaluate results.
• Strong leadership to build and mentor a growing development team.
• Willingness to travel frequently by car; occasional air travel may be required.

Responsibilities

• Lead staff in interpreting the life-changing work of Water's Edge Ministries to inspire generosity.
• Lead a comprehensive fundraising strategy including annual, monthly, major gifts, campaigns, grants, and foundation and corporate support.
• Alongside the Executive Director, establish annual, increasing revenue and performance goals aligned with WEM's mission and strategic plan.
• Manage an active portfolio of 100 or more qualified donors and prospective donors; allocate ~75% of work time to engagement and visits.
• Oversee donor cultivation, solicitation, stewardship, acknowledgment, and reporting.
• Recruit, supervise, mentor, and develop the development team as the program grows.
• Partner with the Executive Director and Board on fundraising strategy, campaigns, donor engagement, and solicitation.
• Oversee fundraising revenue forecasts, the development budget, donor data and CRM practices, and performance dashboards.

Skills

Donor management

Fundraising leadership

Strategic planning

Staff supervision

Travel willingness

Job description

Water's Edge Ministries (WEM) in Minnesota seeks a Director of Development to lead and grow our fundraising operations, partnering with the Executive Director to advance the ministry's mission. You will design a comprehensive development strategy, manage a donor portfolio of 100+, supervise staff, strengthen systems, and build long-term capacity through training and engagement.

This hands-on role requires travel throughout the region, a Christian faith commitment, and a proven ability to inspire