Director of Donor Relations and Programs
Title: Director of Donor Relations and Programs
POSITION SUMMARY
The Director of Donor Relations and Programs develops, implements, manages and assesses a comprehensive donor relations plan to support the strategic growth of foundation and improve internal and external relations for the college. This is accomplished by the Foundation’s annual fundraising plan which includes campaigns, events, donor research and cultivation, and database management. This position will also oversee scholarships and student supports as well as supervision of the Development Associate.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Oversee the Foundation’s annual fundraising strategy that includes but is not limited to campaigns, events, donor research and cultivation, and database management. Develops, implements and leads a successful and integrated donor relations program that strategically targets all levels of giving as defined by the Foundation team. Ensures donors are acknowledged and recognized to strengthen their financial support for the college. Plans and executes stewardship efforts such as photo opportunities, events, mailings, etc. Works closely with Foundation staff to demonstrate the impact of philanthropy to donors by arranging meaningful and memorable experiences with funding recipients as appropriate. Oversees student resource deployment and other student programs, tracking outcomes and providing donor feedback (grantors and individual donors). Collaborates with other departments to successfully streamline delivering supports to students.
Oversees the management and administration of all foundation scholarships, including donor and recipient communication such as reports to donors, thank you letters, student testimonials, etc. Uses key metrics to achieve higher donor retention rates and donor satisfaction and to assess the current engagement and activity of donors to determine which efforts have the greatest business impact. Prepares reports and presentations of program data for various internal and external audiences. Develops and manages all aspects of the Nashville State Alumni Association and alumni programs, including recruiting and coordinating volunteers, planning events and securing event sponsorships. Oversees and directs the development and implementation of strategic communications in multiple mediums in a timely fashion. This includes, but is not limited to, social media sites, annual reporting, e-blasts, endowment reports, gift acknowledgements, web pages, fundraising campaign materials and press releases.
Manages any fundraising-related and celebratory events. Ensures special events are communicated to executive leadership, board members, officials and invited guests. Creates innovative programs and projects to thank and steward donors, identifying creative and effective mediums to recognize the impact of corporate and individual support. Tracks donor relations and stewardship activities in the established databases to enhance relationships and increase the likelihood of continued contributions. Responsible for the review and control of all gift acknowledgments, including receipts, thank you letters, pledge statements and donor reports. Supervises the Development Associate. Performs other duties as assigned.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's degree
Two years’ related experience
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Master’s degree
Experience with CRM software
Demonstrated success at donor relations and/or marketing/public relations experience.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Strong interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills. Strong computer software skills, including Microsoft Office, Publisher, Adobe InDesign, etc. Strong public presentation skills. Excellent planning and organizational skills. Deep knowledge of fundraising tools and techniques. Ability to give and accept supervision. Ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community. Ability to articulate the fundraising goals of the College to the public. Ability to evaluate situations, solve problems and make decisions. Ability to establish and maintain effective and cooperative relations with students, faculty, staff, administration, volunteers and members of the community, as well as the ability to represent the college well under all circumstances.
Open Until Filled: Yes
Rate of Pay: $52,578.00 - $65,722.00 depending on experience
Special Instructions to Applicants: Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for the application process. Official transcripts are required upon hire. Applicants may be subject to a background check.
Nashville State offers flexible work arrangements for positions that qualify.
