Program Officer - Development & Communications

Our partner, a leading community development financial institution (CDFI) in Massachusetts, is seeking a Program Officer for Development & Communications. The organization supports affordable housing, small business growth, workforce development, and sustainability initiatives across the state.

This position will play a key role in expanding funding from both private and public sources and strengthening the organization’s visibility through strategic communications. The Program Officer will collaborate closely with the Executive Director to design and execute fundraising strategies, manage grants, engage donors, and lead digital storytelling and marketing efforts.

• Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies with the Executive Director targeting foundations, corporations, and government entities.
• Identify, write, and submit grant proposals; manage reporting and compliance.
• Research and cultivate new funding prospects and prepare briefing materials for donor meetings.
• Oversee the donor acknowledgment and stewardship process.
• Diversify funding sources to include corporate partnerships and individual donors.
• Maintain accurate donor records in Salesforce, tracking communications and contributions.
• Analyze fundraising metrics and prepare reports on performance and outcomes.

• Develop and implement communications strategies that support fundraising, visibility, and stakeholder engagement.
• Build and maintain relationships with media outlets, community partners, and other stakeholders.
• Manage digital content including social media, website updates, newsletters, and donor communications.
• Lead production of the organization’s annual report highlighting key accomplishments and impact.
• Serve as the liaison between the local team and external communications contacts.

• Collaborate with the Executive Director on planning and executing the organization’s annual fundraising event, Story Slam.
• Coordinate with event planning consultants and vendors to ensure seamless execution and budget alignment.
• Develop creative sponsorship opportunities and marketing strategies to boost event participation and revenue.
• Manage event follow-up activities, including donor recognition, impact reporting, and internal evaluation.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum of 5–6 years of experience in nonprofit development and communications.
• Demonstrated success in grant writing, sponsorships, and donor engagement.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including storytelling and case-making for support.
• Strong organizational and project management abilities, with capacity to balance multiple priorities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with colleagues and external partners.
• Experience managing donor databases (preferably Salesforce).
• Proficiency with design and marketing tools such as Canva, Adobe InDesign, Campaign Monitor, and Microsoft Office.
• Familiarity with social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
• Experience in event planning and execution.
• Understanding of community development, affordable housing, small business growth, or sustainability is a plus.
• Commitment to advancing equitable and inclusive community outcomes.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $85,000–$95,000, commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Short- and long-term disability coverage.
• 401(k) and 403(b) retirement savings plans.
• Paid holidays, vacation, PTO, and sick leave.
• Tuition assistance for continued education.
• Employee referral program.
• Professional development and training opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Statement:
This employer provides equal employment opportunities and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified applicants with disabilities.