"Senior Manager, Donor Relations"

About the role:

We are looking for a Senior Manager of Donor Relations to partner closely with the Director of Strategic Engagement to strategically grow and manage a growing portfolio of new prospects and donors. In this role, you will be a key contributor to expanding the donor base and strengthening stewardship practices that align with the Institute's strategic goals. You will serve as an integral member of the Strategic Engagement Team and also interact with a wide range of world-renowned academic innovators and scientists or engineers, as well as with industry-experienced research and development professionals. You will also work closely with internal grants teams, communications and business development professionals, as well as with development specialists at Harvard University's Development Office (UDO).

What you'll do:

Portfolio Growth and Management:

• Identify, collaborate and solicit a portfolio of new prospects and donors in collaboration with the Director.
• Support the design and execution of donor engagement strategies, including the planning of special events and the creation of high-impact engagement sessions for prospects. Work in collaboration with the Event and other Wyss internal teams to align these opportunities with organization priorities.
• Coach internal staff and evaluate presentations to ensure alignment with philanthropic interests and organization priorities.
• Manage event budget with oversight from the Director and in collaboration with Events team.
• Research and analyze donor capacity, interests and philanthropic priorities to inform engagement strategies.

Donor and Prospect Engagement & Stewardship:

• Develop and deliver personalized donor communications in collaboration with the Communications team.
• Identify compelling topics, narratives, and updates reflective of target audiences' philanthropic passions.
• Finalize all donor-facing materials, including proposals, campaign tools and reports in collaboration with the Communications team, Faculty and Researchers.
• Oversee stewardship of annual reporting and ensure timely acknowledgement and recognition of gifts.
• Oversee the Instrumentation Gift Program, an established program which funds lab enhancement and equipment. Ensure user feedback from this program aligns with active usage of instruments and appropriate project alignment.

Data and Systems Optimization:

• Identify gaps in data analysis and provide recommendations to strengthen reporting and streamline processes.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of new systems that support efficient and timely proposal creation for the Institute.

Networking and Relationship Building:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with prospects, donors, staff, faculty and other key stakeholders to expand the Institute network of supporters.
• Represent the Institute at events, meetings and other engagement opportunities.
• Demonstrate a commitment to teamwork, scientific rigor, and collaboration within and across teams.

Qualifications:

What you'll need:

• Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 7 years of related experience. Advanced knowledge of fundraising required.

Desirable skills:

• Prior experience in a science or technology-focused organization.
• Strong track record in engaging new donors and raising philanthropic funds.
• Excellent organizational skills and/or team leadership experience.

Additional Information:

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week.
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity and Education.
• Work Format Details: This is a position that is based at a Harvard campus location with some remote work options available. All remote work must be performed within one of the Harvard Registered Payroll States.
• Salary Grade and Ranges: This position is salary grade level 058. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.
• Benefits: Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package including generous paid time off, medical insurance, retirement plans, and more. Learn more on the Benefits & Wellbeing Page.