The Donor Relations Manager is an integral part of a small fundraising team to advance the mission of the Des Moines Symphony & Academy. We are seeking a dedicated and collaborative relationship builder who is highly attuned to deadlines and details.

The Donor Relations Manager manages the donor acknowledgment process and donor database. Responsibilities also include coordinating/writing proposals for foundation and corporate funding opportunities and organizing special events. The Donor Relations Manager has substantial contact with staff, board volunteers, and donors.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Donor Relations and Gift Acknowledgement

  • Manage the donor data operations in a timely and accurate manner including gift and data entry, running reports and dashboards, imports and exports, mailing lists, and donor recognition
  • Ensure the reliability of the database by identifying, implementing, and documenting ongoing data integrity processes
  • Stay current with training to ensure the department is fully utilizing and understanding the capabilities of the donor database
  • Assist in the reconciliation between the donor database and finance systems and support the annual audit and fiscal year-end closing processes

Grant Writing and Institutional Giving

  • Coordinate the institutional fundraising program, including maintaining the internal grants calendar, tracking timelines and application/reporting requirements
  • Research foundation, corporate, and government grant funding opportunities that match the goals and objectives of the organization
  • Write and submit grant proposals, applications, and final reports. Work with staff across the organization to develop proposal narratives, budgets, and support materials

Special Events

  • Lead the planning and implementation of the Opening Night Celebration, a pre-concert event with live music, cocktails and a dinner held annually in September
  • Support all special events, including Yankee Doodle Pops Viewing Party and various cultivation/stewardship events, by overseeing registration and attendee communications
  • Seek out, secure, and track corporate sponsorship opportunities and administer sponsor recognition and benefits

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

  • Strong project management skills and the ability to prioritize multiple projects, events, and deadlines with attention to detail
  • Proactive in finding and implementing solutions
  • Confidence using a donor database or CRM system
  • Experience using Microsoft programs (SharePoint, Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment in managing daily workload and remain accountable for achieving goals and completing tasks
  • Ability to work some evenings and weekends on-site for concert and event staffing

Preferred

  • Associate or bachelor’s degree or commensurate experience
  • At least two years of related professional experience
  • Direct experience with PatronManager, Salesforce or similar software

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position is $35,000-$40,000, commensurate with experience. Medical, dental, life insurance, 401(K) and vacation benefits are provided.

Currently, the organization follows a hybrid schedule working in-office two days a week and remotely the rest of the week.

APPLICATION PROCESS

To apply, please email a cover letter and resume to Andrea Solomon, Director of Development at andrea@dmsymphony.org. 

Priority will be given to applications received by Monday, May 15.