Development & Communications Manager

The Savanna Institute invites applications for a **Development & Communications Manager**. This position serves as the operational backbone of the Advancement Team, ensuring the efficient execution of fundraising, communications, and donor engagement activities. The role manages the systems, projects, and administrative functions that enable the organization to build strong philanthropic relationships and effectively communicate its impact. Reporting to the Senior Director of Advancement, the Development & Communications Manager coordinates fundraising operations, donor and partner data management, communications production, project management, vendor relationships, and cross-functional workflows. The position works closely with Development, Communications, Finance, and Programs to ensure Advancement projects are delivered with consistency, accuracy, and exceptional attention to detail. We seek applicants who share our passion for ecological and equitable agriculture as a climate solution and who are motivated to widen the circle of people who have the opportunity to inform, support, and benefit from its development. To that end, we are seeking a diversity of voices at the table and strongly encourage people of color, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply. ### **Who We Are** The Savanna Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Madison, WI and Urbana, IL. Established in 2013, we work in collaboration with farmers, businesses, and scientists to lay the groundwork for widespread agroforestry in the Midwest US. Inspired by the native savanna ecosystems that once covered much of this region, we envision a transformed agricultural system, centered on trees and other perennial crops, that fosters ecological resilience, climate stability, economic prosperity, and vibrant, equitable communities. For more information, please visit [](http://www.savannainstitute.org). ### **Job Description** **Hours:** Full-time **Location:** Remote in the US **Start Date:** November 16, 2026 **Salary:** $62,000-$68,000 per year, based on experience - This position is eligible for the Institute’s benefits package. Benefits for full-time employees include 160 hours (20 days) of paid time off annually plus 11 civic holidays, 480 hours (12 weeks) of parental/disability leave annually, a 401(k) retirement savings plan, a monthly home office stipend, and a cafeteria-style benefits plan that includes as options: a monthly stipend that can be used for either reimbursement of healthcare costs (including ACA marketplace premiums) via an HRA plan, a dependent care pre-tax account, a flex spending account, and/or a health savings account. - This position reports to the Senior Director of Advancement If you're excited about this job, we're excited to learn about your experience! Please be sure to address each of the required qualifications in your cover letter — paint us a picture of how your unique skills, experiences, and/or education meet or exceed the qualifications. Cover letters should be no longer than 1 typed page. ### **Deadline** All applications must be received by **11:59 pm CT on October 4th, 2026**. ### **Questions?** Email Kathleen Fitzgibbon, Assistant Director of Administration, [kathleen@savannainstitute.org](mailto:kathleen@savannainstitute.org). ### **Diversity Commitment** The Savanna Institute affirms the value of diversity of staff and stakeholders, and aims to foster inclusive environments and equitable outcomes of our work. We seek individuals who are committed to these goals. ### **Equal Employment Opportunity** Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. ### **Posted** September 4, 2026