Donor Relations Specialist

Job Summary

A key focus of the Donor Relations Specialist will be the organization and strategic oversight of current and prospective donor data and analytics, including prospect identification, qualification, cultivation and stewardship. The Donor Relations Specialist is responsible for cultivating and stewarding viable funding prospects, assisting the Chief Development Officer with prospect strategy and project proposals, managing the donor database, implementing donor recognition programs, and working with fundraising staff to provide meaningful experiences and touch points to all constituents.

Job Specific Duties

• Alongside the Chief Development Officer, build an ambitious program of stewardship and recognition including a review of the effectiveness of current efforts and where new programs would be beneficial to donors and foundation.
• Supports all frontline fundraising staff with stewardship opportunities across the donor continuum ensuring that donors feel and understand the value of their contributions personally.
• Supports the development and maintenance of processes for donor outreach programs alongside leadership including events, thank you correspondence, and other touch points.
• Works with the event specialist to design, manage, and execute special events related to donor recognition and stewardship, including the Annual Supporter Luncheon.
• Works with the communication specialist on assigned donor communications including impact/stewardship reports.
• Collaborates with the direct service and administrative staff to provide donors with information regarding how their gifts have supported the programs.
• Supports all front-line fundraising staff with donor recognition opportunities, ensuring that donors receive appropriate recognition within the framework of set guidelines.
• Maintains a list of available recognition opportunities and acts as a key internal resource for proposal development.
• Manages the donor database by inputting all donations, pledges, and funding requests, and ensures proper acknowledgement letters are provided.
• Works with the fundraising team on prospect research to identify new donors.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred, or combination of education and experience
• Previous non-profit fund development experience a plus
• Analytical and research skills
• Experience creating and maintaining database systems
• Experience in using or managing CRM (Customer Relationship Management)
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Advanced skills in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Publisher
• Ability to multitask and work in a high-pressure environment
• Ability to work independently and exercise judgment to solve operational problems
• Skills in setting priorities which accurately reflect the relative importance of job responsibilities
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with staff members