About Cedar Circle Farm and Education Center

Cedar Circle Farm & Education Center is a nonprofit, certified organic farm located on conserved land along the Connecticut River in East Thetford, Vermont. Our organization has a deep commitment to developing regenerative agriculture systems for our annual vegetable and flower production and to offering educational programming that builds connections between our food, ecosystems, and community. On-farm research is ongoing here at Cedar Circle, always informing and guiding our soil health and production practices. Our farm is a community hub with a farmstand, retail greenhouses, a farm kitchen, a coffee shop, a cut flower garden, education programs, and unique CSA options. It’s a place where folks can learn about and deepen their appreciation for organic regenerative agriculture.

Our staff is a reflection of our community and is the most essential aspect of our farm. When you join our dynamic team, you’ll have the opportunity to make valuable contributions to our greater mission of promoting organic, regenerative farming and the transition to a localized food economy!

Position Description

The Development Director plays a critical role in advancing Cedar Circle Farm and Education Center’s mission of organic regenerative agriculture, education, and community resilience. This exciting leadership position offers the opportunity to craft and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy that supports innovative programs, from sustainable farming practices to community engagement. You'll build relationships with donors, secure grants, organize impactful events, and collaborate with a passionate team dedicated to creating a more localized and resilient food system. You'll build relationships with donors, secure grants, organize impactful events, and help grow our base of passionate supporters—individuals and partners who contribute in many ways to sustain and advance our mission—all while collaborating with a dedicated team committed to creating a more localized and resilient food system If you're a dynamic, results-driven professional with a love for sustainable agriculture and storytelling, this is your chance to make a meaningful impact in a rapidly changing world.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy Development

• Design and implement a robust fundraising strategy that diversifies revenue streams through grant writing, cultivating relationships with individual and corporate donors, and organizing special fundraising events.
• Set annual fundraising goals in collaboration with the Executive Director and develop action plans to achieve them.

Grants and Donor Relations

• Research and identify grant opportunities aligned with the organization’s mission and objectives. Prepare and submit high-quality grant applications in a timely manner.
• Develop and nurture relationships with individual donors, sponsors, and corporate partners, ensuring ongoing communication and engagement.
• Establish a major gifts program to increase individual donor contributions.

Event Planning

• Plan, coordinate, and execute successful fundraising events that elevate the farm's profile and foster community engagement.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of events and develop strategies for improvement and innovation.

Communications and Impact Reporting

• Collaborate with the Communications Team to develop marketing materials and direct mail campaigns that effectively tell the farm's story and highlight its impact.
• Work closely with the Director of Agriculture and other department managers to gather relevant program data for impact reporting.
• Prepare regular reports and presentations for the Board of Directors and stakeholders on fundraising progress and strategic objectives.

Collaboration and Leadership

• Serve as a key member of the leadership team, participating in strategic planning and organizational development initiatives.
• Supervise the Outreach and Engagement Coordinator in their work to provide consistent, meaningful messaging to our community about the importance and impact of our work
• Provide guidance and support to volunteers and interns involved in fundraising activities.
• Foster a culture of philanthropy within the organization, encouraging all team members to engage in stewardship efforts.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Communications, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in fundraising, with a successful track record of securing grants and major gifts.
• Demonstrated experience in event planning and donor engagement.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to create compelling narratives and proposals.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in fundraising software and donor management systems.
• Strong analytical skills to assess fundraising performance and identify trends and opportunities.

Personal Attributes

• Passion for nonprofit work and a commitment to the mission of sustainable agriculture and education.
• High level of energy, enthusiasm, and professionalism.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

Compensation & Benefits  

This is a full-time, year-round position with an annual salary of $85,000. Benefits include: health insurance (premium 100% employer paid); paid holiday, sick, and parental leave; a 403(b) retirement plant with a 5% employer safe harbor match; 20% discount at our farmstand; 50% off summer camps for dependents; and access to an employee assistance program.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and references to The position will be open until a candidate has accepted the position offer.

Cedar Circle Farm is an EEO/AA employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.