Development Manager

GATHER

Development Manager

Who We Are

Gather’s mission is to offer innovative programs that build food security in welcoming and

dignified ways. Founded in 1816, Gather is one of the oldest social service agencies in the country.

For more than two centuries, Gather has been a regional leader in addressing food insecurity. In addition to the Pantry Market in Portsmouth, NH, Gather meets immediate hunger needs through Mobile Markets, the Meals 4 Kids program, and the Fresh Food Bus. Food that would otherwise be wasted is turned into fresh, to-go meals through the Cooking 4 Community program at Gather’s headquarters and at UNH. Gather Café serves food-insecure students and the broader community at Great Bay Community College.

To address the root causes of food insecurity, Gather offers cooking, gardening, and nutrition education for those who want to learn how to prepare healthy food on a budget. Social service partners also join us in our space to provide wraparound support, helping members address needs beyond food. Finally, Gather’s Fresh Start Culinary Workforce Training Program provides a pathway to employment for people facing barriers to work.

What We Seek

Gather seeks an experienced Development Manager to support philanthropic efforts through fundraising events, donor stewardship and engagement, and annual fund initiatives. Approximately 40% of the role focuses on planning and managing fundraising events, 40% on donor stewardship and engagement, 15% on annual fund management, and 5% on community engagement. This position creates meaningful donor experiences, strengthens relationships with individual and corporate supporters, and advances Gather’s mission and programs.

The Development Manager reports to the Director of Philanthropy and works as part of a collaborative Philanthropy Team. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects, maintain accurate records, and follow through consistently on deadlines and donor communications.

Classification: This is a full-time, non-exempt position.

Reports to: Director of Philanthropy

Primary Responsibilities

Events Management (40%)

The Manager will support the planning and implementation of the annual gala and manage other major fundraising events, third-party fundraisers, and donor stewardship events. They will exercise exceptional attention to detail to ensure smooth events that prioritize the donor experience.

• Plan and implement the Gala (approximately $875,000 in revenue), Thanksgiving Distribution ($96,000), and Fill the Hall ($75,000).
• Assist the Director of Philanthropy in planning and implementing the Gala.
• Assist with coordinating and leading other community fundraising and third-party events, including house parties, bike-a-thons, and food drives, as needed.
• Ensure all revenue goals are met at or below budgeted expense.
• Manage stewardship and solicitation for event sponsorships in coordination with the Development Team.
• Assist the culinary team with planning, logistics, setup, and donor cultivation for 10–12 internal donor recognition events, such as community dinners and Fresh Start graduations.
• Track event participation, follow-up, and new prospects in Salesforce.

Donor Stewardship and Engagement (40%)

The Manager will help coordinate donor stewardship activities, oversee the delivery of recognition benefits at all levels, and personally steward and solicit donors giving between $500 and $2,000.

• Manage the timely delivery of donor benefits across all tiers
• Schedule delivery of thank-you notes, impact reports, and related communications in coordination with annual fund appeals.
• Fulfill the swag promised at each donation level.
• Oversee stewardship and solicitation for donors giving between $500 and $2,000, ensuring renewals and increases aligned with revenue goals.
• Offer tours, meetings, and other engagement opportunities to deepen donor relationships.
• Assist with scheduling donor meetings, preparing donor profiles, and conducting donor research.

Annual Fund Management (15%)

The Manager will oversee the scheduling and delivery of multiple appeals and donor mailings in coordination with the Communications Manager and Data Manager.

• Plan and oversee the creation and mailing of 2–3 annual fund appeals each year, following internal best practices and maximizing return on investment.
• Assist with delivering thank-you notes at all donor benefit levels following each appeal.
• Assist with creating, planning, and distributing impact reports, annual reports, donor newsletters, and planned giving materials.

Community Engagement (5%)

The Manager will help schedule community engagement events and third-party food drives throughout the year.

• Represent Gather at community events, networking opportunities, and speaking engagements.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience in nonprofit management, communications, business, marketing, or a related field.
• Experience: Three to six years of nonprofit development, fundraising, advancement, or related experience.
• Demonstrated success managing annual fund campaigns, donor stewardship, and fundraising events.
• Experience building relationships with donors, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and priorities.
• Comfort representing the organization at events and community engagements.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Experience with donor databases or CRM systems; Salesforce and Kindsight preferred.
• Strong written communication and donor correspondence skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and analyze fundraising data.
• Familiarity with fundraising and event management software preferred.
• Nonprofit Knowledge: Understanding of fundraising, donor stewardship, and relationship-based philanthropy.
• Knowledge of annual giving, sponsorships, and event fundraising.
• Familiarity with nonprofit operations, donor confidentiality, and ethical fundraising practices.
• Experience with food banks or human services organizations preferred.
• Competencies:
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• Detail-oriented with excellent follow-through.
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and collaborative.
• Professional judgment and discretion with sensitive information.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for local travel.
• Mission-Driven: Commitment to Gather’s mission and values.

Location & Schedule

This role is based at Gather’s facility in Portsmouth. The Development Manager is expected to work on-site five days per week, with occasional opportunities for remote work. The position also includes reimbursable local travel for meetings.

Compensation

Compensation ranges from $26–$29 per hour, commensurate with skills and experience, and includes a comprehensive benefits package with health insurance, 401K retirement plan, and paid time off.

Application Process

Please send a resume, cover letter, and writing sample by email to Bryan Matluk at View email address on click.appcast.io. In the subject line, include your name and the position you are applying for, for example: “Jordan Smith – Development Manager.” We will review all submissions and contact only those selected to continue in the search process. The position will remain open until filled.

Gather is an Equal Opportunity Employer that is committed to creating an inclusive organization. We actively seek a diverse pool of candidates for this position.