Donor Relations Manager
Way Finders is a Top Workplaces for Nonprofit organization, named as an employer of choice because our employees said so!
At Way Finders, we are passionately invested in lifting up the region’s people, places, and systems. Though our team performs a wide variety of functions, we are united by our shared mission: to build and advocate for a thriving region; to improve the stability and economic mobility of families and individuals; and to develop and manage a robust range of safe, affordable housing options.
Interested in joining our team of dedicated professionals? Way Finders is currently seeking a Donor Relations Manager. The Donor Relations Manager is responsible for managing donor data, stewardship processes, fundraising communications, and volunteer engagement to support a strong and sustainable development program. This role oversees all aspects of the donor database; manages donor and volunteer communications; supports individual, corporate, and foundation fundraising; and plays an integral role in executing development events.
Benefits include: 20 days of accrued paid time-off in year one | 15+ holidays annually | Health, dental, and vision insurance options FROM DAY ONE | Educational assistance | Medical Reimbursement Account | Dependent Care Account | 403(b) retirement plan with employer match | Life insurance | Short-term and long-term disability insurance | Transportation benefits | Employee Assistance Program | Annual staff picnic!
Wage starts between $56,000 and $63,500 per year depending on equivalent qualifications. Interested applicants must submit a resume and cover letter; applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
The candidate will work in a hybrid-remote manner. Occasional evening and weekend hours are required for events.
Responsibilities include:
• Coordinate donor recognition and stewardship activities for individuals, foundations, and businesses, in partnership with the Director of Development
• Collaborate with department colleagues to implement donor education, engagement, and stewardship efforts; support the development and distribution of donor-facing communications and fundraising marketing materials that are consistent across platforms
• Administer and maintain the development database, ensuring accurate, confidential, and consistent records
• Monitor and improve database processes; update documentation; remain current on system updates and training
• Manage gift processing in partnership with the finance team, including reconciliations, audit preparation, and tax reporting
• Prepare reports and data analyses to identify trends, support pipeline development, and inform revenue forecasting
• Conduct and synthesize prospect research for major gift, corporate, and foundation opportunities
• Collaborate with Director to organize, manage, and grow the volunteer program
• Assist with volunteer recruitment, placement, communications, and appreciation efforts
• Assist with planning, scheduling, and logistics for development meetings and events, to include guest lists, invitations across print and digital channels, RSVPs, and the coordination of event communications
• Coordinate registration, guest communications, and day-of event operations to ensure exceptional attendee experience
• Lead procurement of in-kind donations, including raffle items, gift baskets, and other event-related contributions; track event inventories, materials, and contributions; support post-event reconciliation and acknowledgments
• Assist with special projects that support fundraising strategies and organizational goals
• Contribute to internal collaboration and planning through data insights, analysis, and participation in prospecting and revenue forecasting discussions
Requirements include:
• 5 years’ equivalent experience in development or a related role, with 1 year as a field specialist; a combination of experience plus a Bachelor’s degree may be a substitute
• Preference for experience in a nonprofit setting
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, and ease in learning new software or technology; preference for experience with database applications
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Demonstrated expertise in donor database management, including data hygiene, query building, reporting, and workflow optimization
• Strong writing skills, including experience creating compelling donor communications and fundraising content for digital and print channels
• Advanced organizational skills with a high degree of accuracy and attention-to-detail
• Ability to analyze and manage competing priorities in a complex and fast-paced environment
• Commitment to confidentiality, professionalism, and ethical data stewardship
• Must be available to work occasional evenings and weekends as required
Way Finders is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This position is available to all without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or veteran status. We provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals.
