Development Manager for Membership Society

Job Summary

The American Battlefield Trust seeks a Development Manager to lead and strengthen our membership society program. The society consists of over 1,700 members who contribute between $1,000 - $25,000 in annual membership dues. These generous individuals are passionate about our mission and organization. This position is responsible for cultivating meaningful relationships with society donors, providing exceptional stewardship, and ensuring their continued engagement and generosity. The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator who excels at building lasting connections and delivering an exceptional donor experience.

Why Join Us

At the American Battlefield Trust, you’ll be part of the only national nonprofit dedicated to preserving our nation’s battlefields from the American Revolution, the War of 1812, and the Civil War. We are a bipartisan organization that presents history as accurately and completely as possible to inspire appreciation for our country’s shared past.

Our donors are passionate and deeply committed—making them a joy to partner with. With America’s 250th birthday approaching and development pressures threatening historic sites like never before, the Trust’s work has never been more urgent or meaningful.

As a member of our team, you’ll join this vital effort to save hallowed ground and educate the public about its significance. A rewarding perk of working here is the chance to experience history firsthand through exclusive tours with the nation’s leading historians.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

• Build and deepen relationships with Color Bearers through personalized stewardship, cultivation, and engagement strategies.
• Provide thoughtful donor care through acknowledgements, renewals, recognition, and regular communication.
• Plan and prepare a series of innovative, multi-channel marketing campaigns designed to acquire new Color Bearers.
• Develop and implement strategies to upgrade existing members to higher giving levels.
• Partner with colleagues across departments to create opportunities that connect Color Bearers more closely to the Trust’s mission.
• Oversee program administration, with support from the Development Assistant, to ensure a seamless donor experience.

Required Competencies and Qualifications:

• A commitment to the mission of American Battlefield Trust to preserve our nation’s hallowed battlegrounds and educate the public about what happened there and why it matters today.
• Previous experience (2-5+ years) in membership fundraising, development, donor relations, or other similar roles, demonstrating increasingly responsible positions in development, is highly preferred.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Demonstrated ability to develop, deepen and sustain positive relationships with donors.
• Genuine curiosity in people, an interest in engaging donors, and uncovering their passions and interests.
• A high level of accountability, self-motivation, and ability to work independently and with confidentiality.
• Desire to work in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills and ability to write effectively.
• A professional demeanor and good judgment when interacting with the American Battlefield Trust’s staff and leadership team, high-net-worth prospective donors, and key stakeholders.
• Competency with Microsoft Office. Proficiency with CRM databases required, and experience with EveryAction is preferred.

What We Offer

• Hybrid office environment, with up to 2 work-from-home days weekly
• Medical, dental and vision coverage, with the premium cost on individual coverage paid 100% by the Trust
• Paid time off + eleven holidays
• 403(b) retirement plan with company contribution after one year (regardless of employee’s own contribution)
• Paid life, AD&D, & disability benefits
• Paid parental leave
• WMATA/transit reimbursement program
• Year-round intern program
• Opportunities to participate in events and visit historic sites
• Professional development opportunities
• Coffee and tea stations
• Complimentary onsite gym