"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 interact with world-renowned academic innovators, scientists, engineers, industry professionals, internal grants teams, communications, business development professionals, and development specialists at Harvard University’s Development Office.

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 planning special events and creating high-impact engagement sessions.
• Coach internal staff and evaluate presentations to ensure alignment with philanthropic interests and organization priorities.
• Manage event budgets with oversight from the Director and in collaboration with the 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, which funds lab enhancements and equipment, ensuring user feedback aligns with active usage and 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’s 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: 35 hours per week. Visa sponsorship not available. Work format: Based at a Harvard campus location with some remote work options. Location: Boston, MA, United States.