<span>Development Manager</span>

$50,000 - $65,000/Yr

Virginia Zoological Society - Norfolk, VA

Full-time - Mid Level

Norfolk, VA

Museums, Historical Sites, and Similar Institutions

About the position

The Development Manager at the Virginia Zoological Society plays a crucial role in enhancing the donor experience and driving fundraising growth for the organization. This position focuses on executing strategies to increase donor acquisition and retention, maintaining strong donor relations, and supporting the operational functions of the development department. The Development Manager will work closely with the Director of Development to implement effective fundraising tactics and ensure timely donor acknowledgment and gift processing.

Responsibilities

• Assist in implementing an annual/unrestricted giving plan to reach annual goals, including strategies for acquisition, retention, fulfillment, and stewardship.
• Support the donor stewardship program, including the generation of prompt thank you calls, acknowledgment letters, donor outreach, and donor recognition.
• Develop and execute moves management for a curated portfolio of donors and prospects under $500 with revenue goals for the annual fund.
• Assist with grant search, writing, and proposal preparation.
• Oversee all constituent management systems used by the Development department, ensuring data accuracy and integrity.
• Accurately enter data and confidential processing of gifts, including receipting and acknowledgment.
• Work with the finance team to ensure accounting reconciliation.
• Assist in producing new materials, impact reports, and stewardship campaigns to enhance donor relationships.
• Coordinate with staff leadership, campaign committee members, and board members on prospects outreach.
• Support membership engagement and upgrade opportunities with the Director of Development.
• Maintain and actively increase the prospect list of individuals, corporations, and foundations.
• Support preparation and logistics for fundraising events.

Requirements

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines with multiple ongoing projects.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Resourceful self-starter with an ability to anticipate business needs.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and function well in a high-paced environment.
• Ability to maintain high level of confidentiality of donor and prospect information.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in fundraising.
• At least 2 years of fundraising experience.
• Knowledge of relevant fundraising principles, practices, and techniques.
• Experience working with CRM / Donor management system, preferably Donor Perfect.

Benefits

• Generous amount of Paid Time Off
• 15 Paid Holidays
• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
• Retirement plan after a 60-day probationary period
• Zoo Discounts
• Free Zoo Membership