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Associate Development Director Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

This position can be based in Muskegon, Grand Rapids or Zeeland The Development Associate supports ... Supports the Development Director in strategic planning for the Foundation with short and long ...

Development Associate

Wyoming, MI · On-site

$18.48 - $19.22/hr

... Development Associate supports the creation, implementation and follow up of MOKA Foundation ... Supports the Development Director in strategic planning for the Foundation with short and long ...

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Associate Development Director information

What does an Associate Development Director do?

An Associate Development Director supports the overall fundraising and development efforts of an organization, typically working under the supervision of a Development Director. Their responsibilities often include managing donor relations, coordinating fundraising campaigns, assisting with grant writing, and overseeing event planning. They play a key role in helping meet the organization's financial goals by cultivating relationships with donors and ensuring effective communication. This role often requires strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Development Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Development Director, you need expertise in fundraising strategies, donor relations, and project management, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with donor management systems like Raiser’s Edge and experience with grant writing and event planning are typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, strong communication, and the ability to motivate teams help candidates excel in this role. These competencies are essential for building effective fundraising campaigns and fostering lasting donor relationships that sustain organizational growth.

What are common challenges faced by an Associate Development Director, and how can they be addressed?

Associate Development Directors often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple fundraising initiatives, coordinating with cross-functional teams, and meeting ambitious financial targets. Effective time management and clear communication are essential to prioritize tasks and align stakeholders. Building strong relationships with donors and internal teams also helps in overcoming obstacles and achieving fundraising goals. Seeking mentorship and professional development opportunities can further support growth and problem-solving in this dynamic role.

What is the difference between Associate Development Director vs Development Manager?

AspectAssociate Development DirectorDevelopment Manager
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, experience in fundraising or program developmentBachelor's degree, experience in project management or fundraising
Work EnvironmentNonprofit organizations, educational institutions, or community programsNonprofits, corporate social responsibility departments, or educational sectors
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in organizations with multiple development roles, focusing on strategy and oversightUsed in organizations emphasizing program or project execution

The Associate Development Director typically focuses on supporting fundraising strategies, donor relations, and program development at a strategic level. In contrast, the Development Manager often handles day-to-day fundraising activities, event planning, and direct donor engagement. Both roles require similar credentials and are common in nonprofit and educational sectors, but their focus and responsibilities differ based on organizational size and structure.

What are the most commonly searched types of Development Director jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Development Director jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Associate Development Director jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Associate Development Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Development Director job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Development Associate

MOKA

Wyoming, MI

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

This position can be based in Muskegon, Grand Rapids or Zeeland

The Development Associate supports the creation, implementation and follow up of MOKA Foundation Initiatives. This includes but is not limited to fundraising, event planning, relationship building, marketing, and administrative tasks.

Essential Functions: Including the following, other duties may be assigned.

Supports the Development Director in strategic planning for the Foundation with short and long-range goals to meet agency funding objectives.

Enlists support from Board members, executive managers, outside stakeholders and volunteer organizations to carry out the Foundation's initiatives.

Assists in the implementation of the Development Plan Annual Campaign, including, but not limited to, direct mail correspondence and fundraising appeals. Supports capital and endowment campaigns as directed.

Builds relationships with current donors and seeks to find ways to engage them in MOKA's mission.

Updates and maintains donor database.

Researches topics for writing newsletters, stories for the MOKA donor news page, social media posts and other publications. Works collaboratively with other MOKA employees as needed to publish materials in print and online.

Shares information with MOKA employees to cultivate a culture of philanthropy including data about funds raised, transparency of funds used, and opportunities to give.

Represents the agency through participation and presentations at community events such as chamber events and company expositions.

Supports the Development Director in planning, coordinating, and hosting Foundation fundraising events.

Performs additional administrative duties as assigned. This includes, but is not limited to, mailing thank you notes and acknowledgement letters to donors, sending fundraising materials via standard mail and email and recording meeting minutes.

All MOKA employees will conduct themselves in a manner that demonstrates commitment to the public good and aligns with the philosophy, mission, and core values of the agency.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an employee must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable people with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and ability typically required to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience

High School Diploma or GED required. At least two years' experience or education in nonprofit administration, fund development, public relations, communications, marketing, or similar field. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Communication Skills

Ability to communicate effectively with others in person, by telephone or videoconference, and in written form as appropriate for the needs of the audience. Ability to interpret a variety of information in written and verbal form.

Mathematical Skills

Ability to use mathematics to communicate and interpret information and solve problems.

Reasoning Ability

Ability to solve practical problems, deal with a variety of variables and make independent decisions relative to assigned duties.

Computer Skills

Proficiency with all basic business applications, such as, spreadsheets, presentation software, word processing, calendars, email, videoconferencing, and internet. Knowledge of advanced business tools, such as report writing software, databases, and graphic design applications.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

None Required