Development Manager

Founded in 1976, South Arts is a nonprofit regional arts organization dedicated to advancing Southern vitality through the arts. We believe creativity is a powerful force for connection, cultural celebration, and meaningful change – and we’re committed to investing in it.

In partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the state arts agencies of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, we support artists and organizations across the South through a robust portfolio of grants, fellowships, and programs. From rural communities to major cities, we celebrate the South’s rich artistic legacy—from jazz and Appalachian traditions to today’s most groundbreaking creators.

At South Arts, we foster a culture of collaboration, inclusivity, and regional impact. Our work connects the South to national and global conversations through the arts, responding to cultural trends and strengthening the role of the arts in shaping our region’s future.

We are looking for a strategic fundraiser who thrives on building relationships and driving impact. The Development Manager will help us grow the resources that power our mission and programs. Reporting to the Vice President of Strategy, this pivotal role is responsible for implementing and managing all aspects of our fundraising efforts – individual giving, foundations, corporate sponsorships, and government support.

You’ll work closely with executive leadership, board members, and program staff to cultivate donor relationships, write compelling grant proposals and reports, manage donor data, and contribute to strategic fundraising campaigns.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Fundraising Strategy & Execution:
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan with measurable goals across giving streams
• Prospect Research & Donor Engagement:
  • Identify and cultivate new funding opportunities in partnership with leadership and the Board of Directors
• Proposal & Grant Writing:
  • Craft persuasive proposals, reports, and donor communications; coordinate deadlines and submissions
• Donor Communications & Stewardship:
  • Ensure timely acknowledgments, donor meetings, and cultivation events; support public fundraising content
• Database & Gift Management:
  • Maintain accurate donor records in Salesforce, process gifts, generate reports, and ensure data integrity
• Campaigns & Events:
  • Support the integration of fundraising goals into campaigns and events; occasional travel for donor meetings and site visits (1–3 times per month)

About You

• Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Marketing, Communications, or a related field
• Minimum 5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising
• Demonstrated success in grant writing, donor cultivation and meeting fundraising goals
• Strong writing, editing, interpersonal communication skills
• Experience managing donor databases/CRMS and generating reports
• Clear communicator, both in writing and in person, and can build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels
• Strong organizational skills, with experience managing multiple projects and deadlines
• Willing and able to travel regionally or nationally 1–3 times per month to engage donors, attend events, or represent the organization at development-related functions
• High attention to detail, strategic thinking and initiative
• Passion for social impact and the mission of South Arts
• Proficient in MS Office 365, especially Excel, Outlook, and Word

Preferred Qualifications

• CFRE or Master’s degree in a related field
• Fundraising experience in the arts or cultural sectors
• Salesforce experience

Work Environment & Schedule

• Hybrid role; minimum of 3 on-site days per month in our Atlanta office
• Evening or weekend hours for special events or projects
• Regular regional/national travel for donor engagement (1–3 times/month)
• Must have a dedicated and secure remote workspace

Why South Arts?

At South Arts, we believe in building a more equitable future through creativity, collaboration, and impact. You'll be part of a mission-driven team that values transparency, innovation, and community. We foster a supportive and inclusive culture where your work directly contributes to our growth and success.

We offer a competitive total compensation package designed to support the well-being and growth of our team. The salary range for this position is $70,000 to $80,000, based on experience.

How to Apply

Email your resume and cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and passion for fundraising to HR@southarts.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

For more information about South Arts, please visit our website at www.southarts.org.

Equity Statement

South Arts is an inclusive employer and adheres to Equal Employment Opportunity Commission standards. South Arts does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age, disability, genetic information, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, military status, economic status, or geographic location in any of its activities or operations.