RMBL is hiring a Director of Development

Director of Development

Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (RMBL)

Crested Butte, Colorado

About RMBL

The Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (RMBL) is one of the nation’s leading independent field research stations, dedicated to advancing the understanding of biological processes in a rapidly changing environment. Located in the spectacular Elk Mountains near Crested Butte, Colorado, RMBL supports world-class research, education, and community engagement focused on climate change, ecosystems, and alpine environments. This is a rare and exciting opportunity for an experienced development leader to combine meaningful work with an exceptional lifestyle—living and working in a vibrant mountain community while helping to shape the future of field science.

Position Summary

The Director of Development is a senior leadership role responsible for shaping and executing RMBL’s overall fundraising vision and strategy. Reporting to the Executive Director and working closely with the Board of Trustees, the Director will lead a comprehensive development program, including RMBL’s upcoming Centennial Campaign. This individual will bring strategic insight, strong relationship-building skills, strategic growth, and a passion for mission-driven work to RMBL. The role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact on a globally respected scientific institution at a pivotal moment in its 100-year history.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Fundraising

• Lead the overall development vision and campaign strategy, including planning and execution of RMBL’s Centennial Campaign

• Partner with the Executive Director, Board, along with the Development and Communications teams to shape and drive fundraising strategy, with a focus on major gifts and campaign priorities

• Identify and advance new funding opportunities across individual donors, foundations, and strategic partnerships

• Develop and guide campaign frameworks and fundraising initiatives aligned with RMBL’s long-term goals

• Provide strategic oversight of annual fundraising efforts, including the Annual Appeal and year-round giving strategy, with demonstrated ability to create a written strategic plan and execute it, for both annual and capital campaigns.

• Set direction for fundraising events to ensure they are intentional, high-impact, and aligned with donor engagement goals

• Oversee growth and strategy for the Explorer Program, strengthening donor engagement and progression across giving levels

• Establish and implement development best practices, systems, and standard operating procedures

• Ensure development is fully integrated into organizational planning, including finance, operations, and institutional priorities

• Collaborate across departments to align fundraising with RMBL’s science, education, and community initiatives

• Partner with communications to elevate RMBL’s storytelling, visibility, and national and global reach

• Oversee donor database strategy and infrastructure to ensure strong tracking, reporting, and long-term engagement

Communications & Strategic Messaging

• Partner closely with the Communications Manager and across departments to develop and implement strategic messaging that aligns with RMBL’s mission, priorities, and campaign goals

• Ensure consistency and clarity across all external communications, including donor materials, digital platforms, media, and campaign messaging

• Guide high-level storytelling to elevate RMBL’s visibility, impact, and national presence

• Collaborate on integrated communications strategies that support fundraising, community engagement, and brand positioning

• Provide strategic oversight to ensure communications efforts effectively translate RMBL’s science and impact for diverse audiences

Team Leadership & Management

• Lead and support a small Development and Communications team in day-to-day fundraising operations and strategic communications, providing coaching and leading by example within a small team environment

• Provide clear direction, prioritization, and strategic guidance to ensure alignment with development goals

• Oversee performance tracking and analysis, including donor trends, campaign progress, and revenue outcomes

• Guide the development and management of donor pipelines across all giving levels

• Ensure effective execution of donor cultivation, stewardship, and engagement strategies

• Mentor and support team members, fostering professional development and growth along with strong cross-functional coordination

• Promote alignment across events, database management, donor communications, and stewardship activities

Qualifications

• 5 years of progressive experience in nonprofit fundraising, including major gifts and campaign leadership, with successful capital campaigns

• Demonstrated success leading complex fundraising strategies and achieving ambitious revenue goals

• Strong partnership skills with executive leadership and boards

• Experience managing and mentoring development staff

• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities

• Strategic thinker with strong organizational and analytical skills

• Familiarity with donor database systems and fundraising best practices

• Passion for science, education, environmental stewardship, or related fields

Location & Lifestyle

This position is based in Crested Butte, Colorado, one of the most celebrated mountain communities in North America. Surrounded by alpine landscapes, the area offers exceptional opportunities for outdoor recreation, a strong sense of community, and an unparalleled quality of life.

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation for this position is $125,000 to $150,000 annually. Final compensation will depend on qualifications, experience, and internal equity. Benefits include paid time off, holidays, the opportunity to fund retirement and flexible spending accounts, and, in 2026, a $6,000 taxable salary supplement (reviewed annually).

To Apply

Please submit a resume and cover letter outlining your interest and qualifications to admin@rmbl.org. The anticipated start date for the position is January 2027.

First reviews of applications will start June 1, 2026.

Equal Opportunity Statement

RMBL is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a workplace that supports equal employment opportunity and inclusion. Applicant Accommodation Statement RMBL will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified applicants with disabilities during the application and hiring process. To request an accommodation, please contact Katie Lawn, RMBL ADA Coordinator, katielawn@rmbl.org.