Development and Administrative Associate

About the Friends of the Arava Institute

The Friends of the Arava Institute (FAI) is the US arm of the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies, a leading environmental research and academic institute in the Middle East. Located in Israel’s Arava Valley, the Arava Institute houses academic programs, research centers and regional cooperation programs focusing on a range of environmental challenges. The Arava Institute is dedicated to the concept that nature knows no borders. With a student body composed of Jordanians, Palestinians, Israelis, and students from around the world, the Arava Institute offers an exceptional opportunity to learn from leading scientists, form friendships, and develop skills to help solve today’s most pressing environmental concerns. FAI’sgoal is to ensure the Institute's continued success and growththrough US student recruitment, effective fundraising, and educational campaigns.

Position Overview

At FAI, the Development and Administrative Associate (DAA) will support global environmental and peacebuilding programs and work closely with senior management in a growing, dynamic nonprofit development office. This role is a great opportunity for an aspiring Development professional to gain hands-on experience with a wide range of fundraising programs including annual and capital campaigns, grants, and events. This individual will also develop expertise in donor relations, research, data management, board relations, operations, and more.

This is a full- time hybrid position. Candidates must live within commuting distanceand be able to work in the office in Newton, Massachusetts, at least three days per week.

Development Responsibilities:

• Assume primaryresponsibility for the accuracy and completeness of the donor database. Enter gifts, run reports,and draft acknowledgments, and manage constituent records Review data and make updates as necessary.
• Conduct donor and externalrelations research.
• Track pledgesand other expectedgifts.
• Assist with planning of events.
• Provide administrative support for Development committee, including scheduling meetings and taking minutes.
• Interact with donors and event participants; respond to inquiriesand information requests.

AdministrativeResponsibilities:

• Schedule and coordinate meetingswith internal and external stakeholders, make travel arrangements, provide relevant prep materials and follow-up as appropriate.
• Provide support to the Board and board committees including communications, meeting prep, scheduling, agendas and materials, logistics, and taking minutes.Maintain board and committee data.
• Record Board meetings, draft minutes, and save to files
• Answer phones,respond to emails and requestsfor information, and coordinate follow-upwith staff.
• Respond to office support needs of CEO, CDO, and CFO: oversee the CEO’s and CDO’s schedule.
• Manage softwareaccounts including iWave, Mailchimp, Zoom, and others.
• Order supplies, printed materials, cateringfor events, holidaygifts.
• Support CDO and CFO in the planning and execution of the AnnualMeeting.
• Manage Zoom meetings.

Experience and Skills:

• Minimum 3 years of administrative experience
• Highly proficient with technology including Office 365 (Word,Excel, Powerpoint) and development databases
• Able to multitask and work independently without significant direction
• Highly detailoriented, outstanding organizational skills
• Enjoys workingwith a small team in a fast-paced environment
• Strong senseof personal accountability and follow-through on assignments
• Strong sense of confidentiality and integrity
• Possibility of periodic travel including to Israel for Israel Ride
• Passion for the environment and peace buildingis a plus