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Events & Development Coordinator
Whale Trust
Administration
USD 65k-70k / year
Posted on Jun 11, 2025
EVENTS & DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR
ABOUT WHALE TRUST
Join our mission-driven team dedicated to advancing knowledge about marine mammals and protecting the ocean environment. We seek a candidate who embodies the "Aloha Spirit" in all interactions with colleagues, donors, and community partners, and who is passionate about marine conservation and education.
POSITION OVERVIEW
Whale Trust seeks a dynamic, results-oriented professional to join our team as a full-time Events & Development Coordinator. This role is essential to supporting our research and education programs focused on whales and ocean conservation. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, you will develop and cultivate relationships with partners and donors while identifying opportunities to diversify and increase revenue through grants, individual giving, corporate partnerships, and special events.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Development & Fundraising Strategy
- Collaborate with the Executive Director to create and implement a comprehensive development plan aligned with organizational goals and available resources.
- Design and execute diversified fundraising strategies to meet annual budgetary targets.
- Track project data, manage budgets, and prepare detailed reports as needed.
- Identify and pursue new funding opportunities across all revenue streams.
Events Management
- Plan, organize, and execute high-quality events that align with organizational goals and provide exceptional guest experiences.
- Lead the planning and implementation of Whale Tales, our premier annual fundraising event.
- Develop comprehensive fundraising strategies to increase awareness of Whale Trust and maximize event revenue.
- Coordinate all aspects of event logistics, from initial planning through post-event follow-up.
Grants & Proposal Management
- Research and maintain a comprehensive grants calendar.
- Collaborate with research, education, and executive teams to identify funding opportunities.
- Prepare, submit, and manage grant proposals to foundations and other funding sources.
- Ensure compliance with all grant requirements and reporting obligations.
Donor Relations & Stewardship
- Develop and execute strategies to build and maintain strong, long-term donor relationships.
- Coordinate stewardship activities, donor communications, and recognition programs.
- Manage two annual direct-mail appeals, including database preparation and execution.
- Ensure donors feel appreciated and connected to our mission.
Communications & Content
- Maintain professional communication standards via email, phone, and video conferencing.
- Collaborate with the Whale Trust team to create compelling content for websites, electronic communications (Mailchimp), and social media channels.
- Collaborate on the production and writing of annual newsletters, reports, and organizational communications.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Education & Experience: Bachelor's degree and/or minimum 3 years of experience in events, development, or fundraising.
- Communication Skills: Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication abilities.
- Organizational Skills: Strong planning, time management, and organizational capabilities.
- Technical Proficiency: Experience with Zoom, Google Workspace, WordPress, and other digital tools.
- Problem-Solving: Strong attention to detail and excellent analytical skills.
- Adaptability: Ability to thrive under pressure and manage multiple competing priorities.
- Independence: Self-motivated with strong accountability for results; knows when to seek guidance.
- Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and access all work areas.
- Transportation: Valid driver's license and reliable personal transportation for outreach events.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Demonstrated success in grant writing, appeal writing, and fundraising campaigns.
- 1-3 years of experience working in Hawaii or the Pacific Islands.
- Knowledge of marine mammals (particularly humpback whales) and environmental conservation issues in Hawaii.
- Experience with donor database management.
POSITION DETAILS
Location: Maui-based position (Hawaii or Maui residents preferred; no relocation assistance available)
Schedule: Full-time, exempt position (Monday-Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM HST core hours)
- Some hybrid/remote work available on a case-by-case basis.
- Evening and weekend work required for events and special projects.
- Must be available during core business hours for collaboration and meetings.
Compensation & Benefits:
- $65,000 - $70,000 commensurate on experience
- Flexible scheduling and hybrid work options
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Paid time off and holidays
- Medical benefits package
- Monthly phone/travel allowance
TO APPLY
Send a cover letter and resume to careers@whaletrust.org detailing your experience and interest in the position. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.