Development Manager

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Development Manager at Saving Our Sharks Foundation (SOSF) plays a critical role in advancing
our mission to protect and conserve sharks in Mexico and around the world. As a key member of our
dynamic team, the Development Manager is responsible for driving innovative fundraising strategies,
managing donor relations, developing impactful communication initiatives, and supporting strategic
partnerships to enhance the visibility and financial sustainability of SOSF. This role requires a creative
and adaptable individual with a strong entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to work independently in a
fast-paced environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Fundraising and Donor Relations: Develop and implement innovative fundraising mechanisms
  and campaigns (e.g., Adopt a Shark, raffles, auctions), cultivate relationships with donors,
  manage a prospect portfolio, and draft personalized communications with donors (thank you
  letters, reports).
• Grant Research & Writing: Research grant opportunities and maintain an up-to-date database
  of potential funding sources. Draft compelling proposals, and manage the grant application
  process, including reporting and follow-ups to secure funding for SOSF initiatives.
• Strategic Partnerships and Networking: Identify and secure new partnerships with individuals,
  corporations, and foundations; maintain relationships with current partners, including Shark
  Heroes.
• Communication Strategy and Content Creation: Develop and execute comprehensive communication strategies, including creating content for social media, websites, and email marketing campaigns through Mailchimp and Keela. Manage the production of landing pages, press releases, blogs, scripts, and marketing materials, as needed. Develop concise and effective pitch decks (presentations) for potential partnerships, events, speeches, etc.
• Graphic and Web Design: Design graphic content for social media, web, email marketing, among others. Maintain and update the SOSF website using WordPress, including page structure, copywriting, and design.
• Event Planning and Management: Plan, coordinate, and execute fundraising events, donor meetings, and community engagement activities. Represent SOSF at conferences, trade shows, and public speaking engagements.
• Data Management and Analysis: Utilize CRM (Keela) to manage and analyze donor data, track fundraising performance, and generate reports. Maintain and update the fundraising forecast on a weekly basis.
• Financial and Administrative Support: Assist with financial reporting, budgeting, and administrative tasks, including expense reports and event logistics.

SKILLS:

• Proven track record of individually leading significant fundraising efforts.
• Experience fundraising from major gift donors, foundation, government, and corporate sector.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in both English and Spanish, with a talent for
  storytelling and copywriting.
• Strong strategic planning, organizational, and project management skills, with an ability to handle
  multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in graphic design and web development, including experience with design software
  (Canva, Adobe suite, etc), WordPress, CRM tools (Keela), and email marketing platforms
  (Mailchimp).
• Proficient in working on cloud based software, drives and documents, including: Google Drive,
  Microsoft Office Suite, Asana
• Familiar with payment processors: Stripe, PayPal, Venmo, and others
• Creativity and an eye for aesthetics, with experience in video production, photography, and basic animation.
• Financial acumen, including budgeting and forecasting skills, and advanced Excel knowledge.
• Resilient, adaptable, and a quick learner with a passion for innovation and continuous improvement.
• Collaborative team player with a strong work ethic, integrity, and a positive, entrepreneurial mindset.
• Ability to work independently, manage deadlines, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in fundraising, development, and strategic communications.
• Fully bilingual in English and Spanish; additional languages are a plus.
• Strong knowledge and passion for shark conservation and environmental advocacy.

LOCATION: This position is in the Mexican Caribbean near our current shark conservation efforts.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with
experience, including benefits aligned with similar roles in the conservation field.

APPLICATION:

To apply, please send your resume, a cover letter including salary expectations, and the contact
information of three references by September 15th, 2024, with subject “Development Manager – Your
Name” to: TheTeam@SavingOurSharksFoundation.org