Development Coordinator/Executive Assistant

Position Overview

The Development Coordinator works closely with the Executive Director and Director of Development to ensure that the day-to-day operations of the Development Department, including but not limited to database and project management, donor stewardship, campaign materials, and special events are well executed. This person also provides executive assistance to the Executive Director and Director of Development, enabling them to implement The Vilna’s new strategic plan and capital campaign. 

The successful candidate must possess strong attention to detail with a proven track record of self-direction and will be excited to deliver strong customer service and manage behind-the-scenes development processes. Advanced data entry and digital skills, along with demonstrated experience in project management and organizational systems, are preferred. The ideal candidate is passionate about arts and culture, historic preservation, and the Boston Jewish immigrant story.

Responsibilities

Gift Entry and Database Management (40%)

• Manage CRM database and maintain accuracy of data; enter prospect, donor, and stakeholder data including up-to-date contact information, meeting notes, and future tasks.
• Optimize use of CRM database to create reports that drive development activities and success.
• Deposit, track, and acknowledge all philanthropic gifts and pledges.
• Conduct thorough research on prospective and current donors.

Executive Assistance for Executive Director and Director of Development (40%)

• Provide administrative support to the Executive Director and Director of Development as needed, including scheduling meetings, preparing meeting materials, and coordinating meeting follow up. 
• Work closely with the Director of Development to organize and manage donor engagement cycles of research, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Manage grant applications and reporting processes. 

Donor Communications and Special Events (20%)

• Assist marketing team with development of annual fund and other campaign materials including writing appeals, drafting copy for website and collateral, and crafting social media strategies.
• Collaborate with the marketing team on material design and website integration. 
• Assist with planning and executing cultivation and fundraising events.
• Staff public programs and donor events; ensure that participants feel valued and engaged.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree minimum
• 2-3 years of professional experience
• Demonstrated experience and skill in grants and donor management 
• Familiarity with database management and marketing principles
• Proficiency in Google Workspace and ability to learn computer programs quickly

Ideal Qualities

• Aligned with The Vilna’s mission and values
• Highly organized and data-oriented: enjoys spreadsheets, data input, tracking to drive goal-oriented activities and success
• People-oriented, comfortable and eager to engage with donors and program participants
• Takes initiative and can work independently, but likes to ask questions and collaborate with professional staff and volunteer leadership
• Capacity to juggle multiple priorities efficiently, while balancing overarching goals and various projects with flexibility and speed
• Superb interpersonal, verbal, written, and digital communication skills
• Thoroughness and attention to detail
• Curiosity and a willingness to learn
• Willingness to work nights and weekends
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds

Salary range and benefits: $50,000 - $55,000, commensurate with experience. Competitive benefits. 

Apply Now

Please send a cover letter and resume to Jobs@vilnashul.org with subject: Development Coordinator/ [Your Name]. No phone calls please.

Applications will close on Friday, September 13, 2024. Applicants will be interviewed on a rolling basis. We thank you for your interest in career opportunities at The Vilna. 

About The Vilna Shul: Boston’s Center for Jewish Culture

The Vilna Shul is a cultural center in a historic synagogue building in downtown Boston. Our mission is to spark excitement and curiosity about Jewish culture and our American immigrant story through vibrant and meaningful experiences. Our vision is to be a place where arts, culture, tradition and ideas power personal connections, community and the pursuit of a more inclusive society. To learn more, visit us at www.vilnashul.org.

The Vilna Shul provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, The Vilna Shul complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.