Development Manager

Future Problem Solving (FPS) is seeking its first-ever Development Manager to build a culture of philanthropy within our international education nonprofit.

For more than 50 years, Future Problem Solving has provided dynamic, purposeful learning experiences that empower K–12 students to become changemakers. Each year, more than 30,000 students worldwide participate in challenges designed to help them learn how to think, not what to think, gaining the critical, creative, and collaborative skills they need to succeed in school, work, and life. 

Our most recent Impact Report illustrates how Future Problem Solving is equipping the next generation to imagine a better world - and create it. With over one million alumni globally, FPS graduates carry these problem-solving skills into their lives and workplaces, creating lasting impact. We believe that investing in FPS is an investment in lifelong success.

As we implement our new Five-Year Strategic Plan and celebrate our recent brand relaunch, we are poised to strengthen our capacity and sustainability for the next 50 years.

The ideal candidate will bring nonprofit fundraising experience and excitement for building a new, global development program. They will have broad knowledge of philanthropy, the ability to design and adapt a comprehensive fundraising plan for FPS’s diverse stakeholders, and the storytelling skill to convey the impact of our work through both data and personal narratives. Above all, they will share our passion for empowering students through critical and creative thinking and for how these skills shape lives far beyond the classroom.

A key goal of this position is to diversify FPS’s revenue streams. The organization currently operates with an annual budget of approximately $1.5 million, of which roughly 5% comes from fundraising.

Reports to: Executive Director

Supervises: Development interns, volunteers, and contracted grant writers (as applicable)

About the Role

The Development Manager will be the architect of Future Problem Solving’s first comprehensive fundraising program, helping to build a culture of philanthropy across our global network. This new role will focus on expanding revenue streams, deepening donor engagement, and positioning FPS for long-term sustainability. Working closely with leadership, the Development Manager will craft and execute strategies that inspire giving, strengthen partnerships, and amplify the impact of our mission.

FPS is looking for the right person for the organization and we are willing to adapt the job posting as needed, including working hours and distribution of responsibilities. For questions regarding the position, please email april@fpspi.org.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy and Execution

• Build and implement FPS’s first integrated fundraising strategy across individual, institutional, and corporate giving.
• Oversee annual giving campaigns, major gift solicitations, and planned giving initiatives.
• Cultivate and steward relationships with donors, alumni, and partners around the world.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director and Board to identify new funding opportunities and inspire investment in FPS’s mission.
• Develop compelling fundraising communications that connect data with storytelling.
• Track progress toward fundraising goals, analyze trends, and report outcomes to leadership.
• Engage the Alumni Network and key partners to expand philanthropic support.

Grant Development and Management

• Lead the organization’s grant strategy, including identifying opportunities, managing/writing proposals, and ensuring compliance and timely submissions.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with foundation representatives and grantors.
• Oversee relationship with any additional grantwriters.

Donor Relations and Stewardship

• Direct cultivation and stewardship efforts to maintain and grow donor relationships.
• Implement recognition programs and impact communications that foster engagement and inspire continued giving.
• Develop fundraising content and campaigns that elevate FPS’s visibility and donor support.

Corporate and Community Engagement

• Build and sustain partnerships with corporations, businesses, and community leaders.
• Refine sponsorship packages and secure corporate support for events and programs.
• Represent the organization at networking events, conferences, and community gatherings.

Operations and Leadership

• Ensure accurate donor data management, reporting systems, and tracking of fundraising performance and trends.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director to align development goals and budget with strategic priorities.
• Provide regular progress updates to the Executive Director and Board of Trustees.

• Foster a culture of philanthropy among staff, Board members, and volunteers, empowering them as fundraising ambassadors.
• Support logistics for the annual International Conference as a key organizational event.

Required Qualifications

• 3–5 years of nonprofit fundraising or development experience.
• Proven track record of securing 5-figure+ gifts from individuals, foundations, and corporations.
• Proven ability to design and grow fundraising programs from the ground up.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a passion for storytelling and relationship-building.
• Experience with donor management systems. 
• Commitment to education, youth development, and global impact.
• Flexibility to engage with donors and partners across multiple time zones.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in an educational setting.
• Experience (and excitement for) building a new fundraising program.
• Experience working in an international organization. Knowledge of international philanthropy.
• Proficiency with CRM systems.

Target Salary
Based on industry standards for similar non-profit educational organizations:

• $60,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Benefits

• Flexible work environment (fully remote or hybrid with an office in Indialantic, FL)
• Flexible schedule, with availability for meetings in ET time zone
• Opportunities for advancement within organization
• Professional development opportunities
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off, including holidays

Future Problem Solving is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages you to apply to this posting even if you only meet some of the qualifications.

Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition or any protected category prohibited by local, state or federal laws.

Due to work with K-12 students, FPS conducts a pre-employment background check on all applicants.

Why Join Future Problem Solving?

You’ll join a small but mighty global team passionate about empowering young people to become the creative problem solvers our world needs. Every day, you’ll see your work translate into opportunities for students to think critically, act courageously, and shape a better future.

Interested candidates should email a resume and cover letter to debbie@fpspi.org with the subject line: FPS Development Manager.