Communications and Development Manager in WHITE RIVER JUNCTION, Vermont at Advance Transit Inc

Communications and Development Manager
Job Posting
Advance Transit
Wilder, VT | Full-Time | Salary, Exempt
Join a Mission-Driven Organization Making a Difference in the Upper Valley
Advance Transit is seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Communications and Development Manager to lead the organization's communications, marketing, community engagement, fundraising, and development efforts.
This position plays a critical role in promoting public transportation, strengthening community partnerships, increasing public awareness, supporting employee engagement, and securing philanthropic support for Advance Transit’s mission of providing accessible, fare-free public transportation throughout the Upper Valley.
What You'll Do
As the Communications and Development Manager, you will:
Communications & Marketing
• Develop and implement internal and external communication strategies.
• Create engaging content for newsletters, social media, website updates, press releases, annual reports, and promotional materials.
• Coordinate media relations and public information efforts.
• Manage Advance Transit’s website and digital communications.
• Develop marketing campaigns that increase ridership and community awareness.
• Support communication efforts during service disruptions and public events.
Community Engagement
• Represent Advance Transit at community events, meetings, and stakeholder gatherings.
• Build and maintain relationships with municipalities, schools, businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations.
• Coordinate outreach initiatives that educate and engage the public about transit services.
• Promote Advance Transit as a valuable community resource.
Fundraising & Development
• Develop and implement annual fundraising and development plans.
• Cultivate relationships with donors, sponsors, foundations, and community partners.
• Coordinate annual giving campaigns, sponsorship opportunities, donor recognition programs, and special events.
• Research and pursue new funding opportunities.
• Assist with grant development and community partnership initiatives.
• Manage donor records and stewardship activities.
Organizational Support
• Support the Executive Director and Board of Directors with communication and development initiatives.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and annual reports.
• Participate in strategic planning and organizational improvement efforts.
Qualifications
Required:
• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in communications, marketing, fundraising, development, public relations, community engagement, or a related field.
• Excellent written, verbal, and public speaking skills.
• Experience developing communication campaigns and managing multiple communication platforms.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel throughout the Advance Transit service area.
Preferred:
• Experience in public transportation, nonprofit organizations, local government, or public service.
• Grant writing and grant management experience.
• Experience with donor management software and fundraising databases.
• Graphic design, website management, and digital marketing experience.
• Experience leading projects, volunteers, contractors, or staff.
What We're Looking For
The ideal candidate is:
• An exceptional communicator and relationship builder.
• Creative, organized, and detail-oriented.
• Passionate about community engagement and public service.
• Comfortable managing multiple projects and priorities.
• Able to work independently while collaborating effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Why Advance Transit?
Advance Transit is a fare-free public transportation provider serving communities throughout the Upper Valley. We are committed to providing safe, accessible, and reliable transportation while fostering an inclusive workplace and strengthening the communities we serve.