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# Development Manager

- **Company:** Mercury
- **Location:** Houston, TX, United States
- **Salary:** $45,000.0 - $55,000.0
- **Contract:** Temporary contract
- **Skills:** Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Outlook, Databases, Microsoft Office
- **Published:** October 12, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=4a0cc3b9c5c22f2e

## About the Role

* At least 3 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising or development.
 * Demonstrated experience in annual fund management, donor communications, and moves management.
 * Strong writing skills with the ability to craft compelling donor correspondence and fundraising copy.
 * Proficiency with CRM or fundraising databases. Spektrix experience is a plus.
 * Highly organized with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
 * A collaborative, proactive working style with a genuine commitment to the mission.
 * Experience supporting events or galas in a fundraising context.
 * Experience in a performing arts organization or similar nonprofit environment preferred.
 * Genuine curiosity and interest in classical music and the performing arts., * Experience in fundraising or customer service.
 * Proficiency and confidence in Word, Excel and Outlook.
 * Working knowledge of Spektrix or other CRM system preferred.
 * Bachelor's degree required., * Bachelor's (Required), * Microsoft Office: 1 year (Preferred)
 * Spektrix/CRM: 1 year (Preferred)
 * Fundraising: 3 years (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Houston, TX 77027

## Description

The Development Manager is an essential member of Mercury's development team, responsible for driving annual fund performance, managing a personal portfolio of donors at the entry and mid-levels, and providing hands-on support across all fundraising activity. Reporting to the Development Director, this role owns the day-to-day execution that keeps Mercury's donor pipeline healthy and growing. The Development Manager plays a central role in Gala logistics and is a key operational partner to the Development Director across individual giving, institutional support, and donor stewardship., * Manage and grow Mercury's annual fund with a primary focus on donors giving up to $2,500 in partnership with the Development Director.

 * Own a personal portfolio of entry and mid-level donors and prospects, with responsibility for cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
 * Execute direct mail, email, and digital annual fund appeals in coordination with the marketing team.
 * Track donor activity and moves management in Spektrix, maintaining clean and current records across the portfolio.
 * Identify lapsed donors and execute re-engagement strategies to recover and grow the base.
 * Monitor annual fund performance against goals and provide regular progress reports to the Development Director.

Gala Logistics and Support

 * Serve as the primary logistics coordinator for Mercury's annual Gala, working closely with the Development Director, other team members, and event vendors.
 * Manage event logistics including venue coordination, catering, rentals, run-of-show planning, and day-of execution, and post-event evaluation.
 * Coordinate invitation production and distribution, RSVP tracking, and seating in partnership with the marketing team.
 * Support sponsorship fulfillment and ensure Gala donors and sponsors receive appropriate recognition.
 * Manage event volunteer coordination including recruitment, training, and on-site supervision.
 * Collaborate with the Audience Experience Manager on silent auction logistics and ensure seamless integration with overall event operations

Donor Stewardship and Engagement

 * Process gifts, generate acknowledgments, and reconcile development records with Finance Manager in a timely manner.
 * Draft acknowledgment letters, handwritten notes, and other donor communications that reflect Mercury's voice and values.
 * Coordinate donor recognition across concert programs, the website, and other materials.
 * Manage fulfillment of donor benefits and ensure timely, accurate delivery at all giving levels.
 * Support the Development Director in preparing materials for major donor meetings and solicitations.
 * Assist with donor cultivation events and ensure strong follow-up after each touchpoint.
 * Support Board engagement in fundraising by preparing materials, tracking Board giving, and coordinating follow-up.
 * Assist with campaign planning and execution, including Mercury's Beyond 25 Campaign and future growth initiatives.