Development Manager

WHAT WE SEEK GEF seeks a focused, creative Development Manager who is passionate about public education and community-driven philanthropy. The ideal candidate brings strong fundraising experience, excellent communication skills, and comfort working collaboratively in a small, flexible organization. This position is critical to GEF’s effort to deepen fundraising efforts through campaigns, donor stewardship, events, and strategic outreach.

WHO WE ARE The Gloucester Education Foundation (GEF) was formed in 2005 by a group of Gloucester residents committed to strengthening public education at a time when arts, music, and science programs in the Gloucester Public Schools were falling victim to budget cuts. GEF set out to transform what was possible in Gloucester classrooms, with the goal of making the Gloucester Public School District one of the best in the state.

Since then, GEF has raised more than $12 million in donations and grants, catalyzing innovative programs and opportunities for students across the district. In 2025–26, GEF is celebrating its 20th anniversary while launching an ambitious new effort to renovate the O’Maley Middle School Courtyard into a vibrant outdoor learning and community space. Learn more at thinkthebest.org.

OUR MISSION GEF drives innovation, encourages creativity, expands student opportunities, and empowers educators to strengthen teaching and learning in the Gloucester Public Schools.

OUR VISION Students in the Gloucester Public Schools are engaged in and enthusiastic about their education, prepared to reach their fullest potential, and dedicated to community engagement.

WHY THIS JOB IS SPECIAL This is a unique opportunity to step into a hands-on fundraising position at a respected organization during a time of both reflection and growth. As Development Manager, you will play a meaningful role in shaping GEF’s next chapter, supporting annual fundraising while helping to advance a transformative capital project that will impact students for generations. You will work closely with an engaged Executive Director and Board, collaborate with passionate volunteers and educators, and see firsthand how philanthropy translates into positive experiences for students. For someone who values relationship-based fundraising and thoughtful, mission-driven work, this job offers purpose and the chance to make a tangible local impact.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage GEF’s donor database (Little Green Light), ensuring accurate records, reporting, and donor tracking
• Lead GEF’s annual fundraising appeals (winter and spring), in close collaboration with the Executive Director
• Support implementation of GEF’s $3M capital campaign for the O’Maley Courtyard project in partnership with the Executive Director, Board leadership, and campaign committee (established and regularly meeting)
• Coordinate donor stewardship and cultivation activities, including events, site visits, and targeted outreach
• Conduct prospect research to identify and qualify potential donors, sponsors, and funders at all giving levels
• Serve as staff co-lead for GEF’s External Affairs Committee
• Other development-related duties as assigned, aligned with organizational priorities

QUALIFICATIONS

• Three+ years of professional fundraising experience, ideally in a nonprofit setting
• Demonstrated success securing individual and/or organizational gifts
• Experience working with volunteer boards or fundraising committees
• Strong alignment with GEF’s mission, values, and belief in public education
• Familiarity with the Gloucester community and its public schools is an asset in this role

SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND COMPETENCIES

• Knowledge of effective fundraising practices for small nonprofit organizations
• Experience with cloud-based donor databases (Little Green Light or similar preferred)
• Proficiency in Google Workspace and Microsoft Office; ability to learn new technologies
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
• Highly organized, with strong attention to detail and follow-through
• Creative, solutions-oriented problem solver
• Comfortable working both independently and collaboratively
• Flexible and adaptable, with the ability to manage evolving priorities
• Enjoys building and maintaining authentic relationships with donors, volunteers, partners
• Availability for occasional evening or weekend events and meetings
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs and stand for extended periods during events
• Commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion, and to the role public schools play in advancing these values

LOCATION AND SCHEDULE This position is based in Gloucester, MA, with schedule flexibility and the opportunity for remote hours at the Executive Director’s discretion. The GEF office is accessible by public transportation (Commuter Rail and CATA bus).

COMPENSATION This is a part-time position (25 hours/week). Compensation is $30–35 per hour, commensurate with experience. Benefits include six paid holiday or personal days, accrued sick time, a monthly parking permit, and paid professional development opportunities.

The Gloucester Education Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building an inclusive organization. We actively encourage applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds, including alumni of the Gloucester Public Schools.

Benefits include six paid holiday or personal days, accrued sick time, a monthly parking permit, and paid professional development opportunities. A highly flexible work schedule may be beneficial and attractive to many candidates.

Spanish and/or Brazilian Portuguese are an asset in the role but not required.