Development Manager

American Saddlebred Horse & Breeders Association • Lexington, KY

3d

About The Position

The Development Manager plays a critical role in expanding ASHBA’s base of philanthropic support by focusing on donor acquisition, retention, and growth. This individual is responsible for designing and implementing peer-to-peer fundraising efforts, annual campaigns, and donor engagement programs that build a sustainable pipeline of support. The Development Manager will craft donor journeys, manage recurring giving initiatives, and create strategies that encourage broad participation while also securing event sponsorship opportunities. The ideal candidate is a relationship-builder, creative campaign manager, and enthusiastic fundraiser who thrives on growing community support and developing donors over time. This role should expect to be out in the field and traveling a large portion of their weeks.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3–5 years of fundraising experience, with a focus on annual campaigns, peer-to-peer fundraising, or donor engagement.
• Demonstrated success in running fundraising campaigns and growing donor participation.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills with the ability to engage diverse supporters.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, including donor appeals and campaign messaging.
• Proficiency in CRM and donor database systems (e.g., DonorPerfect, Salesforce, Bloomerang).
• Organized, self-motivated, and results-driven.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional weekends and travel for meetings, events, and donor cultivation.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, communications, fundraising, or a related field preferred.
• Passion for the equestrian industry and familiarity with the American Saddlebred breed is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute annual giving campaigns, including digital appeals, mailings, and recurring donor programs.
• Develop and manage a broad portfolio of donors, focusing on growing participation and long-term donor engagement.
• Design and implement peer-to-peer fundraising models to increase grassroots support.
• Create donor upgrade strategies to move supporters into higher giving tiers over time.
• Coordinate matching gift opportunities, workplace giving programs, and event sponsorships.
• Maintain regular, meaningful contact with donors through personal outreach, impact reports, and updates.
• Coordinate and participate in cultivation activities such as facility tours, donor appreciation events, and community-driven campaigns.
• Ensure proper acknowledgment and recognition of gifts in a timely and meaningful manner.
• Collaborate with the marketing team to highlight donor and peer fundraising stories.
• Work with ASHBA staff, board members, and volunteers to support development initiatives and leverage networks.
• Partner with program leaders to align fundraising efforts with key programs and initiatives.
• Support the planning and execution of fundraising campaigns and events, including sponsorship solicitation.
• Partner with ASHBA staff, volunteers, and program leads to identify funding opportunities and match them with donor interests.
• Support board and committee members in their fundraising efforts by providing background, talking points, and solicitation support.
• Maintain accurate donor records and engagement activity in the association’s database.
• Track and report on fundraising progress, campaign status, and donor pipeline metrics.
• Analyze giving trends to inform strategy and identify new opportunities.
• Research and identify prospective foundation and corporate funders for general support.
• Draft and submit select grant proposals and sponsorship packets in coordination with the Executive Director.
• Secure event sponsorships to support fundraising campaigns and special initiatives.
• Provide stewardship reports for sponsors and grant funders as needed.
• Serve as a liaison to related committees and councils, ensuring effective communication between members, leadership, and staff.
• Support committee chairs and council leaders in scheduling meetings, preparing agendas, and tracking action items.
• Facilitate collaboration between committees, councils, and the ASHBA Board to align efforts with the organization’s strategic goals.
• Participate in team meetings and professional development activities.
• Provide support for overall fundraising operations as needed.

Benefits

• Be part of a passionate team dedicated to preserving and promoting the American Saddlebred breed.
• Work in a dynamic role that allows for creativity and direct impact on membership and volunteer engagement.
• Engage with a vibrant community of equestrians, enthusiasts, and industry professionals.
• Opportunities for professional growth and networking within the equestrian world.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees