Marketing and Development Events Manager

The Wolf River Conservancy seeks a strategic, creative, and data-informed Marketing and Development Events Manager to grow visibility and engagement through compelling storytelling and high-quality donor communications, and to help execute development events that support fundraising. This role works closely with the Chief Development Officer to plan and deliver campaigns and events that deepen relationships with supporters and expand the Conservancy’s reach.
Marketing & Communications
· Develop and execute a development-focused communications plan in collaboration with the Chief Development Officer.
· Write, edit, and schedule donor-facing communications including donor emails, e-blasts, newsletters, and event promotions.
· Create mission-centered storytelling (copy, graphics, photo/video) that inspires engagement and giving, consistent with WRC’s brand voice.
· Maintain and improve WRC’s website content and donation experience (event pages, landing pages, navigation, clarity, and calls-to-action).
· Ensure program/event updates and campaign content are accurate, visually compelling, and up to date across communication channels.
Fundraising Events (Planning & Execution)
· Plan and execute assigned development/fundraising events from concept through post-event follow-up (timelines, run-of-show, vendors, volunteers, and onsite management).
· Develop and manage event budgets; track revenue and expenses; and provide post-event reporting and recommendations.
· Coordinate venue selection, catering, entertainment, décor, rentals, signage, and other logistics for assigned events.
· Oversee event registration, ticketing, guest communications, and event-day support.
· Ensure appropriate permits, insurance documentation, and basic safety considerations are addressed for assigned events.
· Capture onsite photos/video and attendee stories to support marketing, stewardship, and future promotions.
· Conduct event debriefs and incorporate lessons learned into improved processes and planning.
Data, Analytics & Continuous Improvement
· Use campaign planning, audience segmentation, and basic testing to improve email engagement and conversion.
· Track and report performance across email, website, and social media; recommend improvements based on data and industry best practices.
· Maintain organized records of communications, assets, and event documentation in shared systems and project tools.
Sponsorship & Partnership Support
· Assist with sponsor/partner communications for assigned events and campaigns.
· Support the development of sponsorship packages and partnership opportunities as directed by the Chief Development Officer.
Required
· Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, nonprofit management, or a related field OR equivalent professional experience (3–5 years).
· Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills with attention to detail and voice/brand consistency.
· Demonstrated experience planning and executing events, including timelines, vendor coordination, and budgeting.
· Comfort with common workplace and marketing tools: MS Office, email marketing platforms, social media platforms, and basic CRM/database use.
· Collaborative, positive, and team-oriented approach; able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Preferred
· Experience with nonprofit fundraising communications and donor stewardship.
· Experience negotiating vendor contracts and coordinating with venues and partners.
· Working knowledge of tools such as Meta Business Suite, website CMS platforms, and project management tools.
· Basic graphic design/content production skills.
· Ability to work occasional evenings/weekends and extended hours during major events.
· Ability to stand/walk for long periods during events and to lift/carry event materials (up to 25lbs occasionally.
· Regular computer and phone use requiring manual dexterity and visual attention.
· Occasional local travel to venues, meetings, and outdoor work sites.
