Manager of Donor Engagement

Manager of Donor Engagement

Reports To: Director of Community & Donor Engagement

Position Summary

The Manager of Donor Services supports the Community Foundation’s mission by strengthening relationships with donors, nonprofit organizations, and community partners. This role helps steward donor relationships, support the growth of charitable funds, and connect philanthropic interests with community needs. Working closely with Foundation leadership, the Manager contributes to donor engagement, grantmaking, and outreach efforts that highlight the Foundation’s impact across the region.

The ideal candidate enjoys meeting new people, building trusted relationships, and helping others connect their generosity with opportunities to make a meaningful difference in the community.

Key Responsibilities

Donor Engagement and Stewardship

• Build and maintain relationships with current and prospective donors.
• Support the establishment and ongoing administration of charitable funds.
• Coordinate donor communications, recognition, and engagement opportunities.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date donor records in the Foundation database.

Community and Nonprofit Engagement

• Develop relationships with nonprofit organizations, community leaders, and civic partners.
• Represent the Foundation at community meetings and events.
• Help nonprofit partners understand the Foundation’s grantmaking programs and processes.
• Identify community needs and connect them with potential philanthropic support.

Fund Development and Grantmaking Support

• Assist in efforts to grow the Foundation’s charitable funds and philanthropic impact.
• Support the grantmaking process, including applicant communication and grantee follow-up.
• Track and report on grant outcomes and community impact.

Communications and Events

• Contribute to materials that highlight donor stories and community impact.
• Support outreach efforts, including presentations to community organizations when appropriate.
• Assist with coordination of Foundation meetings and events.
• Prepare materials for board meetings and grantmaking discussions.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position does not currently have any direct reports.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Strong relationship management and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and maintain professional relationships. Typically requires 3–5 years of experience in roles focused on relationship management, client services, donor engagement, or community engagement. Experience working with nonprofit organizations or philanthropic initiatives is helpful but not required.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to convey impact and tell compelling stories.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• High level of attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate records and data.
• Self-motivated and collaborative, with the ability to take initiative and work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Customer-service mindset with a focus on stewardship and relationship building.
• Experience with donor databases or CRM systems preferred.

Core Competencies and Expectations

Success in this role is measured by clarity and outcomes, not by personal task completion.

• Strategic Problem Solving – Gathers and synthesizes information to identify root causes, frame decisions, and support effective solutions.
• Donor and Partner Stewardship – Anticipates needs, follows through on commitments, and ensures donors and partners experience clarity, responsiveness, and trust.
• Judgment and Discretion – Maintains confidentiality, exercises sound judgment, and understands when collaboration or escalation is appropriate.
• Communication and Influence – Communicates clearly and persuasively in writing and conversation, adapting style for donors, board members, staff, and community partners.
• Collaboration and Team Support – Works effectively across teams, shares information, and contributes to a culture of trust and accountability.
• Planning, Prioritization, and Focus – Identifies what matters most, sequences work appropriately, and ensures effort supports the Foundation’s priorities.
• Initiative and Improvement – Identifies opportunities to improve systems, storytelling, and donor engagement; pilots new approaches thoughtfully.
• Organizational Impact – Strengthens the Foundation by improving processes, maintaining institutional knowledge, and reinforcing donor and community confidence.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

Valid driver’s license and automobile insurance.

Hours of Work Required

Full time, 40 hours per week. Salaried position with benefits.

Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance

403b with 5% Employer Match

PTO Vacation, Sick days, Personal Days

Employer paid Life & ADD Insurance