Development and Marketing Manager

Unit/Location: Development / Vero Beach, FL (On-site)
Classification: Salaried / Exempt / Full-time
Reports to: Executive Director

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Development and Marketing Manager plays a key role in advancing McKee Botanical Garden’s mission. The role is responsible for both strategy and day-to-day execution of fundraising, donor relations, membership growth, and marketing/communications initiatives.

This position works closely with leadership and staff to enhance community engagement, cultivate philanthropic support, and strengthen McKee’s brand through thoughtful storytelling and outreach.

This is a hands-on role suited to a self-starter who can manage multiple priorities, build strong community relationships, and actively contribute to the Garden’s growth.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Development & Fundraising

• Manage all aspects of annual fundraising, including individual giving campaigns and sponsorships.
• Cultivate, solicit, and steward donors and members with a focus on building long-term relationships.
• Research, draft, and submit grant proposals; track deadlines and reporting requirements.
• Process donations, maintain accurate donor records, and ensure timely acknowledgments within CRM database.
• Coordinate fundraising events from start to finish: sponsorship outreach, communications, logistics, and follow-up.
• Manage planning and execution of fundraising events, including sponsorship outreach, guest communications, and day-of logistics.
• Support the Executive Director and Board in identifying and engaging major donor prospects.

Marketing & Communications

• Develop and execute marketing strategies to increase attendance, visibility, and community engagement.
• Write and distribute newsletters, press releases, and promotional content.
• Manage social media accounts, create content, and track engagement.
• Maintain and update the Garden’s website with current programs and events.
• Design or coordinate production of promotional materials, signage, and advertising.
• Capture and curate photos and stories that highlight the Garden’s mission and impact.
• Track marketing metrics and provide reports on engagement and effectiveness.

Collaboration & General Support

• Manage development and marketing budgets; track expenses and report on outcomes.
• Provide regular reports to the Executive Director and Board on fundraising and marketing performance.
• Collaborate with events, horticulture, and Garden staff to ensure messaging reflect the Garden’s mission.
• Supervise and mentor interns, volunteers, or part-time support staff as available.
• Serve as a positive ambassador for the Garden at events, community meetings, and with media partners.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the success of McKee.

REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, communications, marketing, or related field; or equivalent experience.
• 3–5 years of nonprofit development and marketing experience, ideally in a cultural or environmental organization.
• Strong writing, editing, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience with donor databases/CRMs (Altru a huge plus), email marketing platforms, and social media management.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects with attention to detail.
• Hands-on, flexible, and resourceful; comfortable balancing strategy with execution.
• Must be willing to work occasional evenings and weekends for events including, but limited to the month of December for Jungle Lights.
• Passion for gardens, nature, and community-based nonprofits.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The Manager position operates in professional office settings, outdoor garden environments, and within the community. This role involves routine use of standard office equipment (e.g., computers, phones, photocopiers) and physical activity such as walking, bending, standing, and lifting up to 25 pounds. Outdoor work may involve exposure to heat, direct sunlight, and inclement weather.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

McKee Botanical Garden, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on merit, competence, and qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person