Location: Lincoln, NE

Reports to: Communications Director

Status: Full-Time, Exempt

About OpenSky Policy Institute

OpenSky Policy Institute’s mission is to use research, strategic communications, and coalition-building to advance evidence-based policies that improve economic opportunity for all Nebraskans. We envision a Nebraska where everyone can thrive.

We are committed to an equitable, transparent, and inclusive work environment where collaboration and teamwork are expected and encouraged. Our development efforts are rooted in our organizational values of equity and integrity, ensuring our donor strategies reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

Position Summary

OpenSky seeks a proactive and strategic Development Manager to lead fundraising operations and cultivate strong relationships with donors, foundations, and community partners. This role is responsible for planning and implementing development strategies that support OpenSky’s mission, revenue goals, and long-term sustainability.

The Development Manager will work under the supervision of the Communications Director  and in strategic partnership with the Operations Manager to ensure that fundraising efforts are aligned with the organization's strategic communications and marketing goals and seamlessly integrated into the organization’s administrative and financial systems.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy and Execution

• Design and implement a comprehensive annual fundraising plan targeting revenue goals of $1.5 - $2 million annually.
• Diversify revenue through individual giving, major donor cultivation, institutional giving, and corporate sponsorships.
• Write compelling and tailored grant proposals, reports, and donor communications.
• Lead donor segmentation, prospecting, and multi-channel campaigns.
• Ensure fundraising practices align with OpenSky’s organizational values. 

Donor Relations and Communications

• Manage and grow relationships with current and prospective donors.
• Develop personalized stewardship strategies and recognition programs.
• Produce donor communications such as newsletters, impact reports, and appeals.
• Support the Executive Director and Board in their fundraising roles, preparing briefings and materials.

Database and Financial Integration

• Maintain donor database (Little Green Light) with timely gift entry, tracking, and acknowledgment.
• Partner with the Operations Manager on financial tracking, reporting, and reconciliation.
• Generate development dashboards to inform strategy and provide updates to leadership and the Board.

Grant Management

• Identify and research new funding opportunities.
• Coordinate proposal development and submission in collaboration with program and operations teams.
• Track grant deadlines and reporting requirements to ensure compliance and timely submissions.

Events and Campaigns

• Plan and execute donor engagement events, annual appeals, and campaign initiatives.
• Collaborate with the Operations Manager to manage event logistics and communications.

Partnership with the Operations Manager

The Development Manager works in close coordination with the Operations Manager to:

• Maintain accurate and integrated donor data systems and acknowledgments.
• Reconcile contributions and ensure compliance with IRS and grant regulations.
• Align development strategies with organizational workflows and financial systems.
• Co-manage events and donor engagement logistics.
• Leverage tools such as LittleGreenLight, MailChimp, Trello, and G-Suite to increase efficiency and alignment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3–5 years in nonprofit development, fundraising, or donor relations.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Demonstrated success in donor cultivation, grant writing, and campaign planning.
• Strong command of fundraising databases, Trello, G-Suite, and Microsoft Office.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and project management abilities.
• Commitment to equity, economic justice, and inclusive fundraising practices.
• CFRE certification or interest in pursuing certification is a plus.

The Ideal Candidate Will Be:

• A self-starter who thrives in a mission-driven, team-based environment.
• A relationship builder with strong interpersonal and written communication skills.
• Highly organized and attentive to detail.
• A strategic thinker who can translate vision into tactical execution.
• Professional and respectful in all interactions.
• Curious, adaptive, creative and committed to continuous learning.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range: $65,000–$72,000, commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement contributions, generous paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

TO APPLY:  Send cover letter, resume and brief writing sample to Tiffany Friesen Milone at [email protected] with a subject line of: “Development manager position.”

Impact Statement:

This position is integral to OpenSky’s long-term impact, ensuring the financial resources needed to drive research, advocacy, and coalition-building. The Development Manager will help secure funding to allow OpenSky to shape strategy and strengthen systems to advance economic opportunity across Nebraska.