JOB SUMMARY:  

The Development Manager works within the Fund Development Team whose mission is to promote Think Together's work externally and drive philanthropic revenue for the organization’s mission and strategic goals. This position will lead all prospect research efforts, execute the strategy and maintenance of data platforms, and cultivate donors in support of the department’s philanthropic goals.   

The Development Manager will work remotely four days a week and from the Think Together Home Office in Santa Ana one day a week (or more often as needed). Must be willing to work weekends or evenings as needed and travel for events within our primary fundraising regions: Los Angeles, Palms Springs, Bay Area, and the Inland Empire.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Prospecting and Donor Stewardship 

• Actively manage a donor portfolio made up of active, lapsed, and new donors.
• Develop mid-level donor giving strategies, including upgrading annual donors into major donor pipelines.
• Coordinate cultivation touchpoints (e.g., thank-you calls, personalized notes, donor briefings).
• Conduct prospect research on individuals and corporations using electronic sources with specific attention to wealth capacity and philanthropic alignment
• Identify and cultivate sponsors for annual events, such as Spring Kit Build
• Support strategies for engaging partners through corporate giving programs, employee engagement, and other fundraising opportunities
• Manage the donor stewardship program, including timely acknowledgment of gifts through personalized communication and special recognition projects during peak giving seasons
• Prepare pitches and/or communication decks for prospects

Community Engagement   

• Work closely with the Development Specialist to support volunteer engagement activities
• Ensure accurate tracking of event attendees and supporters in Salesforce
• Support the execution of donor salon and stewardship events throughout the year
• Represent Think Together at community events, networking opportunities, and partner convenings to increase visibility and cultivate relationships.
• Develop and manage relationships with civic organizations, chambers of commerce, and local business groups to expand awareness and partnerships.

Data Strategy and Management

• Execute strategy to improve donor data, segmentation, and effective moves management cycle using Salesforce
• Management of donor records and CRM database, including accurately recording gifts, updating information in donor records, and initiating receipts according to established procedures
• Monthly reconciliation of gifts with the accounting department to ensure all contributions are recorded and recognized accurately
• Lead training and support user adoption for Salesforce, iWave, and other tools
•  Support data visibility by creating custom reports and dashboards for the department. Produce donor and prospect lists for annual mailings, event invitations, and other solicitations
• Analyze giving trends and donor behavior to inform annual fundraising strategy.
• Create regular dashboards and progress-to-goal updates for leadership and Board review
• Assist in building fundraising toolkits and resources for regional staff to engage local donors and partners.
• Monitor industry trends, peer organizations, and emerging fundraising opportunities to inform strategy.
• Provides general support for other projects as needed

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:  

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Minimum 5 years of experience in nonprofit and/or fundraising work
• At least 2 years of experience managing and utilizing a CRM or donor database (Salesforce preferred)
• Proven ability to build rapport with donors leading to new, renewed, and/or upgraded gifts
• Exemplary organizational skills, including ability to handle multiple tasks and manage time effectively to meet deadlines
• Outstanding data management skills with high attention to detail and accuracy
• Professional, positive, and approachable attitude with ability to work and communicate with a diverse group of people, as well as independently
• High value of confidentiality and discretion
• Demonstrable passion and commitment to working in the field of education

COMPUTER SKILLS:  

• File Management (One Drive, Box, Dropbox, etc.)
• Email, internet, website, and social media platforms
• Use of typical office equipment
• Experience with Salesforce or other fundraising databases.

PHYSICAL/WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Moderate Noise (examples: typical office noise)
• Stand, Walk, Sit (in general office environment)
• Computer Screen visual in performance of role
• Lift up to 25 pounds
• Travel up to 10-20%
• Must pass Live Scan (criminal background check via fingerprinting), provide a clear TB test

Compensation:

Salary Range $75K-$85K

This is the targeted compensation for the position. A range of factors, including but not limited to; location, skills, experience, will be considered. Actual compensation may vary.