Development Director
Date lssued:8/1/2025
Priority Application Deadline: September 8, 2025
Position open until filled.
Position Title: Development Director
Reports to: Executive Director
Expected hours per week: 20-40 hours, depending on the selected candidate and skill set.
Location: Hybrid. NWLT's office is based in Walker, MN. We are open to the position being
remote but regular travel throughout northern Minnesota will be required.
Salary: $65,000. Commensurate with experience and number of hours per week/month
(prorated for less than full time)
About Northern Waters Land Trust
NWLT is a private nonprofit organization committed to conserving north central Minnesota's
vital natural lands and waters. For more than 30 years, NWLT has acquired and protected land
to provide enduring benefits to wildlife habitat, clean water, and outdoor recreation. We
primarily operate within six major watersheds in north-central Minnesota, supported by grants,
donations, and public and private partnerships.
Position Summary:
The Development Director will lead and implement NWLT's fund raising efforts. This position will
be responsible for building relationships with donors and generating sustainable revenue
streams through individual giving, private grants, major gifts, corporate sponsors, and donor
stewardship. The ideal candidate should be able to bring demonstrated success in securing fivefigure
or larger gifts and lasting donor relationships. This is a key position on a small team, best
suited for a self-starter with experience in nonprofit fundraising who is motivated to grow
NWLT's fundraising and visibility.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Fundraising and Donor Development
Competencies: Fundraising, Strategic Thinking, Relationship Building, Communication
• Develop and implement an annual fundraising plan that aligns with NWLT's strategic
goals.
• Cultivate and manage a portfolio of individual, foundation, and business donors.
• Build relationships with key funders and prospective donors, with a focus on securing
sustainable and long-term gifts.
• Build a corporate sponsorship program.
• Solicit gifts directly and prepare leadership and board members to do so as well.
• Coordinate and manage appeals, campaigns, and donor recognition efforts.
• Work closely with staff to identify fundraising opportunities tied to land protection
projects and organizational priorities.
• Collaborate with contractors or staff managing communications to develop compelling
donor messaging and impact reporting.
• Plan and support donor engagement events, both virtual and in-person.
Fundraising Operations and Reporting
Competencies: Project Management, Attention to Detail, Data Tracking
• Track and analyze fund raising metrics to inform strategy and decision-making.
• Manage and maintain donor records and ensure compliance with donor intent, ethical
fundraising practices, and gift acknowledgment protocols.
• Assist in preparing grant reports and proposals, as needed.
• Prepare regular fund raising updates and reports for the Executive Director,
Development & Outreach Committee, and NWLT Board.
Board and Committee Engagement
Competencies: Collaboration, Facilitation, Communication
• Staff and coordinate the Development & Outreach Committee, including preparing
meeting materials, facilitating discussions, and following up on action items.
• Work with the Executive Director and Development & Outreach Committee to engage
board members in fundraising.
• Support board members in making personal asks and stewarding relationships.
• Prepare development materials and updates for committee and board meetings.
Qualifications
• Demonstrated success in nonprofit fundraising, including securing and stewarding
individual gifts (including five-figure gifts)
• Ability to develop and execute strategic fundraising plans.
• Proven communication and relationship-building skills.
• Experience with donor databases or CRM systems preferred.
• Self-directed, organized, and able to work independently and collaboratively.
• Knowledge of land and water conservation.
• Ties to northern Minnesota and willing and able to regularly travel to and work in the
region.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
This position can be remote or hybrid, with periodic in-person meetings, donor visits, and
events throughout north-central Minnesota and the Metro area (with primary focus on Aitkin,
Cass, Crow Wing, and Hubbard counties). Work involves standard office activities such as
computer use, attending meetings, and phone/video conferencing.
Compensation and Benefits
• Competitive Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Health Insurance: NWLT provides a health insurance package for eligible employees.
• Paid Time Off: Includes 10-20 days of vacation depending on experience, 6 days of sick
leave, 11 holidays, and bereavement leave.
• Expense Reimbursement: Mileage, cell phone use, other travel expenses, and internet
expenses are reimbursed to support remote work and related activities.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional reference
contacts to:
Lynn Kramer, Organizational Administrator
Email: LynnK@nwlt-mn.org
Subject line: Development Director Application, [First and Last Name]
Questions may be directed to Lynn Kramer by email or phone at (218) 547-4510.
