Development Operations Associate

About Wesley Seminary

Located in Washington, D.C., Wesley Theological Seminary is a graduate theological school of The United Methodist Church that prepares faithful leaders to positively impact churches and communities worldwide. Our culturally and ethnically diverse student body represents nearly 40 different Christian denominations from almost every state in the union and every continent except Antarctica. Our graduates lead churches, nonprofits, justice and advocacy programs, international NGOs, community health programs, and service agencies worldwide. A single graduating class of Wesley scholars will positively impact more than half a million people during their ministry careers.

Position Summary 

Under the direction of the Vice President for Development, the Development Associate will be fundamental to our development operations. As the key data entry person for the development office, s/he will meticulously process all donations and effectively collaborate with different constituencies to ensure the success of our mission to develop lifelong relationships that inspire intellectual and financial contributions for Wesley Theological Seminary. 

The Development Associate will also provide operational support to the Office of Development, including but not limited to answering phones, welcoming guests, and supporting events, as necessary. 

This is a hybrid position with a 3-day in-office per week requirement

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Process gifts, pledges, pledge payments, matching gifts, memorial gifts, stock donations, gifts in kind, and other contributions according to donor intent while following Seminary gift processing policies and procedures
• Play a key role in the efficient and effective implementation of stewardship strategies
• Collaborate with Data Manager and members of the business office to ensure accurate financial records
• Identify and update existing donor records or create new donor records as required
• Produce daily gift batch reports for senior seminary leadership
• Administer gift agreements and various other donor-related documentation of gifts and pledges
• Manage the creation and distribution of annual impact reports to endowed fund donors 
• Support with various donor-related data tasks including research, outreach, and preparing donor profiles 
• Coordinate logistics for email and mail for development communications
• Manage data-related event support – invitation lists, mailings, and tracking attendance

Skills and Qualifications

• Two to five years experience in a nonprofit Development Office, Institution of Higher Education, or Church-based organization (Training or an equivalent combination of education and experience may count towards this qualification).
• Proficiency with Raiser’s Edge (RE/NXT) or other fundraising database(s).
• Intermediate to advanced knowledge of computers and common software applications, including Microsoft Office Suite, Zoom, and various online-based subscription software. 
• Work with a sense of urgency, accuracy, and timeliness in entering data
• Willingness to learn from success as well as failure to improve procedures  
• Strong attention to detail, with a keen eye for accuracy for day-to-day activities as well as in an environment that will become very busy during certain times of the year
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal 
• Ability to work as part of a high customer service, fun, and performance-oriented team using a high degree of initiative and strong problem-solving skills
• Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment with confidential information
• Working knowledge of the Methodist Church or other Christian Seminaries is helpful but not required

Education Requirement(s)

• Bachelor’s degree required.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times. 
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

To Apply

• Email a cover letter (required) and resume to mayres@wesleyseminary.edu

Position open until filled

The starting salary range is $55,000 - $60,000 and commensurate with experience

Wesley Theological Seminary is an equal-opportunity employer

www.wesleyseminary.edu