Director of Donor Relations

Reports to:  The President of the Academy.

Primary Job Summary:  The Director of Donor Relations is responsible for designing, implementing and coordinating an institution-wide donor relation and stewardship system that appropriately and consistently promotes interaction with and recognition of donors at all levels.

Performance Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee activities for building and sustaining positive relations between the Academy and its donors.
• Oversee the acknowledgement and receipting process for all gifts including but not limited to acknowledgement letters (monthly, quarterly, annually, campaign specific), year-end giving statements, for all gifts received from donors.
• Prepare documents needed for various stewardship / scholarship communications including annual scholarship statements to donors of endowed scholarships.
• Assist in fundraising for current fund and special projects including relationship building with donors, churches, and the local community.
• Assist office personnel in receiving campus guests, giving tours, and answering incoming calls.
• Assist in coordination and hosting work teams and visiting campus groups.
• Represent the institution at churches and denominational conferences, and coordinate ministry team activities and travel with student groups.
• Assist in the production of the Oakleaf Newsletter, the Monday Memo, social media activities, and press releases.
• Coordinate homecoming activities and other campus events.
• Manage the corporate gift matching process for gifts from donors.
• Assist with donor database updates.
• Complete all other tasks or projects as assigned.

DESIRABLE Characteristics:

• Proficiency in various software programs (e.g. Microsoft Word, Adobe Creative Suites).
• Ability to learn software programs and online platforms.
• Attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• An ability to create positive connections between groups of people.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:  A bachelor’s degree is required. Experience in related work is desired, although training will be provided to a talented applicant without direct experience in this field.

Other Expectations: 

• Maintain positive relationships with students and staff and participate in the life of the Oakdale ministry.
• Participate in areas of the ministry beyond the job descriptions of their positions as specified in the Employee Handbook.
• Attend the Oakdale Free Methodist Church.