Development Manager

Unravel Pediatric Cancer is looking for a Development Manager who genuinely loves building relationships and is energized by partnership-driven fundraising. This role is centered on cultivating corporate partnerships and sponsorships, while also contributing to a well-rounded, diversified fundraising program.

We’re a small but mighty organization, and that means everyone pitches in. We’re looking for someone who’s comfortable zooming out to think strategically and rolling up their sleeves to get things done. You’ll be a self-starter who works well independently, takes initiative, and balances multiple priorities — while staying closely connected to our collaborative, supportive leadership team.

This role is based in the California Bay Area, and we’re looking for someone who lives locally and is excited to build in-person relationships with partners, attend events, and represent Unravel Pediatric Cancer throughout the community.

Key Responsibilities

Corporate Partnerships & Sponsorships (Primary Focus)

• Build and nurture authentic relationships with corporate partners and sponsors who care deeply about pediatric cancer research
• Create meaningful sponsorship and partnership opportunities that align partner goals with real, measurable impact
• Develop partnership proposals, presentations, and agreements that are thoughtful and engaging
• Manage sponsor fulfillment, recognition, and renewals with care and follow-through
• Represent Unravel Pediatric Cancer warmly and professionally in meetings, at events, and throughout the community

Diversified Fundraising Support

• Support individual donor engagement as part of a balanced and growing fundraising program
• Assist with campaigns such as annual appeals, Giving Tuesday, and matching gift initiatives
• Collaborate with leadership to explore new partnership ideas and revenue opportunities

Third-Party & Community Fundraising

• Plan and manage third-party fundraising efforts led by companies, community groups, or individual supporters
• Equip external fundraisers with toolkits, guidance, and encouragement to help them succeed
• Serve as the main point of contact for third-party fundraisers and track progress along the way
• Ensure funds raised are acknowledged, reported, and stewarded thoughtfully

Stewardship & Relationship Management

• Make sure partners and donors feel genuinely appreciated and connected to the impact of their support
• Coordinate timely thank-yous, updates, and impact reporting
• Focus on building long-term relationships that grow into renewed and repeat support

Storytelling & Communications

• Translate research priorities and organizational impact into clear, compelling messages for corporate and community audiences
• Contribute to proposals, donor communications, and partnership materials
• Help tell the story of how research funding leads to meaningful progress for children and families

Data, Systems & Analytics

• Serve as a primary administrator and power user of Blackbaud, ensuring clean data, thoughtful segmentation, and accurate reporting
• Analyze donor behavior, giving patterns, and acquisition channels to identify trends and opportunities
• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to donor retention, growth, and engagement
• Use insights from data to refine strategy, improve donor journeys, and strengthen fundraising outcomes

Data, Systems and Analytics Responsibilities

• Serve as a primary administrator and power user of Blackbaud, ensuring clean data, thoughtful segmentation, and accurate reporting
• Analyze donor behavior, giving patterns, and acquisition channels to identify trends and opportunities
• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to donor retention, growth, and engagement
• Use insights from data to refine strategy, improve donor journeys, and strengthen fundraising outcomes

Who You Are

Experienced in Nonprofit Fundraising: You are familiar with nonprofit development practices and corporate partnership fundraising.

Relationship-Driven: You enjoy connecting with people, listening well, and building trust over time.

Comfortable in a Mission-Centered Environment: You approach sensitive topics with empathy and professionalism.

Self-Motivated and Collaborative: You take initiative, adapt easily, and enjoy working as part of a small, supportive team.

California Bay Area: We’re looking for someone who lives locally and is excited to build in-person relationships with partners, attend events, and represent Unravel Pediatric Cancer throughout the community.

Qualifications

• Required: 3+ years of professional fundraising experience within a nonprofit organization
• (Corporate sales experience alone will not be considered)
• Experience securing and managing corporate partnerships or sponsorships
• Demonstrated success closing gifts or sponsorships
• Experience working with Boards of Directors and volunteer leaders
• Proficiency with nonprofit CRMs (e.g Blackbaud, Salesforce for Nonprofits, Raiser’s Edge)
• Experience with peer-to-peer or corporate fundraising platforms preferred

Health Insurance, Flexible time off, Work from home