Director of development

About Conservation Mind

Conservation Mind is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting under-resourced communities and local NGOs in advancing conservation and wildlife protection around the world. We use AI, computer vision, satellite remote sensing, and GIS to make advanced environmental technologies more accessible - so rangers, field researchers, and grassroots organizations can use them. All of our services are delivered entirely pro bono. From tracking pampas cats across Patagonian steppe to identifying individual elephants in Sumatra's rainforests, we build technology with local partners, not just for them.

Location: Remote
Commitment: 5–10 hours/week
Type: Volunteer (unpaid)

Role Overview

This is a fully remote, volunteer role for a Director of Development. The Director of Development will lead and shape Conservation Mind's fundraising strategy at a pivotal moment in our growth. Responsibilities include identifying and cultivating relationships with foundation funders, institutional donors, and individual philanthropists; managing annual giving programs and long-term planned giving initiatives; developing and executing fundraising campaigns; and advising on budgeting and resource allocation for development efforts. This role carries real strategic influence within the organization and offers a clear pathway to joining Conservation Mind's Board of Directors for the right candidate.

Responsibilities

  • Experience in planned giving, annual giving, or major gifts fundraising

  • Knowledge of nonprofit philanthropy strategy and donor cultivation best practices

  • Proficiency in budgeting and resource allocation within nonprofit contexts

  • Strong communication and relationship-building skills to engage and inspire donors and partners

  • Creative, proactive approach to identifying new funding opportunities and meeting ambitious goals

  • Previous experience in conservation, environmental, or climate-focused causes is a plus

  • Master's degree in Nonprofit Management, Business, Communications, or a related field preferred

What We Offer

  • A meaningful volunteer role with real strategic ownership from day one

  • The opportunity to shape the fundraising foundation of a fast-growing conservation tech nonprofit

  • A collaborative, mission-driven team of scientists, engineers, and conservationists spanning the globe

  • A clear pathway to a Board of Directors seat for the right candidate

  • Flexibility: this is a fully remote, async-friendly role

Why Conservation Mind

We're at an exciting inflection point. With active projects across four continents, a growing partner network, and a pipeline of grant opportunities, we have the mission and the momentum. What we need now is the right person to help us build the financial foundation that makes it all sustainable. If you've ever wanted your expertise to directly protect wildlife and support the communities living alongside it, this is that opportunity.

Application

📩 Interested? Reach out directly or send your LinkedIn profile and a brief note about your background to info@conservationmind.org

Conservation Mind encourages applications from all backgrounds and is committed to building an inclusive, diverse, and supportive team.