Development & Operations Director - Donor Relations & Events

The Little Light House Central Kentucky, Inc.; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate is seeking an experienced, mission-driven professional to support development, events, communications, and day-to-day operations. This individual will work closely with the Executive Director and other key stakeholders to advance Ashland’s mission, strengthen donor and community relationships, and support the organization’s long‑term sustainability.

The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator, an organized project manager, and a collaborative leader who is

Qualifications

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience in fundraising, donor development, sponsorship procurement, or nonprofit advancement.
• Experience planning and coordinating events.
• Working knowledge of budgeting and financial oversight.
• Familiarity with donor-management or constituent relationship management software.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and project-management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with professionalism and attention to detail.
• Experience working with public officials, government organizations, advocacy groups, or political campaigns is a plus.
• An interest in Kentucky history, historic preservation, education, tourism, or community engagement is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support the Executive Director in advancing the organization’s mission, strategic priorities, and daily operations.
• Develop clear and compelling written communications for donors, members, community partners, board members, and other stakeholders.
• Cultivate relationships with individual donors, corporate partners, foundations, and community organizations.
• Identify and pursue donations, sponsorships, grants, and other fundraising opportunities.
• Maintain donor records and oversee the effective use of donor-management software.
• Assist with donor acknowledgment, stewardship, reporting, and ongoing engagement.
• Plan and coordinate fundraising events, community programs, and special events held at the Estate.
• Manage event logistics, timelines, vendors, budgets, sponsorships, and communications.
• Assist with developing and monitoring organizational and program budgets.
• Work collaboratively with staff, board members, volunteers, public officials, and community partners.
• Gradually assume additional organizational leadership and decision-making responsibilities.

Skills

Communication

Fundraising

Event planning

Budgeting

Project management

Collaboration

Nonprofit experience

Donor relations

Tools

Donor management software

Job description

Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate is seeking an experienced, mission-driven professional to support development, events, communications, and day-to-day operations. This individual will work closely with the Executive Director and other key stakeholders to advance Ashland’s mission, strengthen donor and community relationships, and support the organization’s long‑term sustainability.

The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator, an organized project manager, and a collaborative leader who is