Demo

Development Manager

Make-A-Wish Mississippi
Ridgeland, MS Full Time
POSTED ON 5/22/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 7/22/2026

Organization: Make-A-Wish® Mississippi
Position: Development Manager
Location: Ridgeland, MS
Reports To: Development Manager
Status: Exempt

Make-A-Wish Mississippi grants the wishes of children with critical illnesses to enrich the human experience with hope, strength, and joy. Our organization is an independent chapter of Make-A-Wish America, and although it has become one of the world’s most well-known charities, Make-A-Wish has maintained the grassroots approach to the fulfillment of our mission. We value integrity, respect, open communication, loyalty, and gratitude. And, above all, we value improving the lives of others through the magic of a wish. We seek like-minded candidates to apply for the Development Manager position.

Position Summary
This position is responsible for the coordination of internal chapter special events, community support and assisting the development team as needed. Events will be managed to maximize revenue and positive outcomes within the community by working with established monthly and annual budgets and partners, developing new corporate partnerships, and ensuring that Make-A-Wish® Mississippi retains a consistent presence throughout the state.

Primary Responsibilities

Event Coordination

· Collaborate with direct supervisor/President & CEO to implement annual development goals and strategic plans.

· Drive philanthropic engagement and initiatives through the cultivation of individuals, foundations, schools, and corporations in Mississippi

· Implement and/or oversee the following fundraising initiative and programs

o Tee It Up Golf Tournament

o Evening of Wishes Gala

o National Corporate Partnerships (Macy’s, Subaru, etc.)

o Local Corporate Partnerships

o Grants

o Other campaigns as necessary

· Provide direction, oversite, and coaching of volunteer fundraising chairs and committees for events, communicate committee progress. Ensure all details of events are secured.

· Provide event coaching, scheduling, planning, production and develop event budget.

· Develop resource & training material for event chairs or volunteer leaders.

· Build relationships with key corporate & community leaders through weekly, frequent face-to-face meetings.

· Maintain accurate records of all in-kind and monetary donations.

· Evaluate events and fundraising platforms through the compilation of participant feedback. Analyze event performance and prepare metrics presentations.

· Manage and track event progress towards fundraising goals, provide updates to direct supervisors on regular basis.

· Utilize donor information systems to track donor relationships, manage pipelines, and development goals.

· Social media skills desired

· Maintain and support a Generalist work environment

· Maintain your portfolio of individuals, corporations and events

· Other duties as assigned or requested by direct supervisor and/or President & CEO

External Representation
Network with members of the local business community, nonprofit organizations and fellow Make-A-Wish chapters to increase awareness for our mission and need for financial support.

· Cultivate relationships with current donors and prospective volunteers and donors.

· Create appreciation opportunities, stewardship programs, and community awareness

· Serve as the liaison between organization and donors to guarantee open lines of communication

· Participate in all regional fundraising events, with additional events as assigned

· Be point of contact for event inquiries from donors and the general public.

· Recruit, train, and manage fundraising volunteers for the region (Internal events, external events, etc.)

Desired Background and Attributes

  • BS/BA degree required in related field.
  • Preferred 3 years nonprofit experience and/or sales experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication, organizational, computer, and presentation skills.
  • Strong project management and time management skills with proven ability to work within tight timelines and limited budgets.
  • Proven ability to increase philanthropic partnerships over time.
  • Demonstrated interpersonal skills including flexibility and the ability to listen, negotiate and collaborate.
  • Personal commitment and passion for the Make-A-Wish mission.
  • The ability to work effectively as part of a team, and an interest in contributing to a strong organizational culture.
  • Willingness to work evenings and weekends and travel as needed.
  • Experience with CRM database, such as Salesforce, is preferred.

COMPENSATION

Compensation includes a competitive salary commensurate with experience and a comprehensive package of employee and health benefits.

TO APPLY

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and 3 professional references.

No calls or office visits, please. Applications will be accepted until a qualified candidate is identified.

Make-A-Wish® Mississippi is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $45,000.00 per year

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

  • Are you willing to work full-time, on-site in Ridgeland, MS?

Education:

  • Bachelor's (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $45,000

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