Mule Deer Foundation Seeks Director of Business Development

Job Title: Director of Business Development

Location: Remote

Organization: Mule Deer Foundation (MDF)

Position Type: Full-Time

About the Mule Deer Foundation:

The Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) is dedicated to ensuring the conservation of mule deer and black-tailed deer populations and their habitats across North America. Our mission is to protect and enhance wildlife habitat, promote sound conservation policy, and engage in research and education efforts to ensure healthy deer populations for generations to come. MDF works closely with local, state, and national partners to advance our conservation goals and expand our impact.

Position Summary:

The Director of Business Development will play a crucial role in expanding the Mule Deer Foundation’s revenue streams and partnerships. This position is focused on driving revenue through membership growth and corporate partnerships, with the goal of supporting the organization's mission and initiatives. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in sales and business development, particularly in the conservation or non-profit sector, and have a proven track record of increasing membership numbers and securing corporate sponsorships.

Key Responsibilities:

• Membership Growth & Retention:
  • Develop and execute strategies to recruit, retain, and engage individual members of MDF.
  • Manage member engagement strategies, focusing on increasing renewal rates, overall membership numbers, and donor loyalty.
  • Leverage existing MDF networks and external opportunities to build a robust membership base.
  • Create compelling membership packages and benefits that appeal to a diverse audience, including hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and conservation advocates.
• Corporate Partnerships & Sponsorships:
  • Identify, cultivate, and secure corporate partnerships and sponsorships aligned with the Mule Deer Foundation’s mission.
  • Develop customized partnership opportunities that deliver value to corporate sponsors while advancing the organization's conservation goals.
  • Work closely with marketing and development teams to create effective sponsorship materials, pitches, and presentations.
  • Negotiate partnership terms and ensure strong relationship management throughout the lifecycle of partnerships.

• Revenue Generation & Strategy:
  • Design and implement revenue generation strategies, focusing on both corporate and individual streams of income.
  • Collaborate with the finance and leadership teams to establish annual revenue targets and track performance against goals.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of business development activities and adjust strategies as necessary to maximize revenue and impact.
• Networking & Outreach:
  • Represent the Mule Deer Foundation at industry conferences, events, and meetings to network with potential corporate partners, donors, and influencers in the conservation space.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders in the conservation, outdoor recreation, and hunting industries.
• Team Leadership & Collaboration:
  • Lead a team of business development professionals and support staff, providing mentorship, guidance, and training to ensure success.
  • Work cross-functionally with other teams to align business development activities with organizational goals.
  • Collaborate with senior leadership to drive strategic initiatives and help shape the future of the organization.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in business development, sales, or a related field, with a strong focus on driving revenue growth.
• Proven track record of success in membership development, corporate partnerships, and sponsorship sales—preferably in the conservation, outdoor, or non-profit sectors.
• Deep understanding of conservation issues, particularly in the context of wildlife management and habitat conservation.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence key stakeholders.
• Strong negotiation, presentation, and contract management skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Passion for the mission of the Mule Deer Foundation and a genuine interest in conservation and wildlife protection.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in the hunting, outdoor recreation, or environmental conservation industries.
• Knowledge of CRM systems and data-driven sales strategies.
• Experience in digital marketing and social media strategies to enhance membership and partnership engagement.

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and why you are interested in the Director of Business Development position with the Mule Deer Foundation to askmdf@muledeer.org. We look forward to hearing from you!