Job Summary

The Donor Relations Officer is a key member of the Jones Center/Jones Trust's dynamic, donor-centered team. This role will support the development and execution of fundraising strategies, strengthen philanthropic relationships, and advance the organization's service to the region. By managing key fundraising events and programs, the Donor Relations Officer will help engage corporate, foundation, and individual supporters in the mission of the Jones Center.

Main Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy and Relationship Management

The Donor Relations Officer will manage a strategic portfolio of approximately 50 annual and mid-level corporate, foundation, and individual supporters. This includes overseeing the stewardship and engagement of existing donors, while identifying and cultivating new relationships to support Jones Center initiatives.

Event Management

The Donor Relations Officer will project-manage at least two annual fundraising events, collaborating with various departments and external partners to ensure successful outcomes:

Golf Event Fundraiser - Responsibilities include:

• Leading and inspiring the volunteer Golf Event committee.
• Coordinating event logistics, registration, and communication with participants.
• Securing prizes and giveaways.
• Collaborating with Jones Center teams, volunteers, and the golf venue to execute the event.

Big Night Fundraiser - Responsibilities include:

• Developing the vision and strategic goals for the event.
• Serve as the Development lead, collaborating with the Jones Center departments that include Special Events, Guest Services, and Marketing/Communications.
• Securing 7 to 10 high-impact live auction items to drive revenue.
• Overseeing event logistics, ticket outreach, and donor engagement.

Stewardship and Cultivation Programs

The Donor Relations Officer will plan and execute up to four annual stewardship and cultivation events for the Friends of the Jones Center. Responsibilities include developing event themes, engaging donors, and ensuring all communications and experiences are tailored to donor interests. Relationships developed through these and other events may be further cultivated and incorporated into the Donor Relations Officer's strategic donor portfolio.

Friends of the Jones Center is a giving circle designed to engage individuals committed to supporting the mission of the Jones Center. Members of this giving circle are philanthropic supporters who provide annual contributions, helping to fund essential programs, scholarships, and community services. As part of the Friends of the Jones Center, donors enjoy exclusive benefits such as invitations to special events, behind-the-scenes experiences, and opportunities to connect with the Center's leadership and program participants. This giving circle fosters a close relationship between donors and the organization, encouraging deeper involvement and long-term commitment to the Jones Center's impact on the region.

Compliance and Accountability

Maintain appropriate systems and processes to track donor engagement and ensure compliance with organization standards. Implement best practices to evaluate donor interactions and ensure accountability across all activities.

Additional Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively across the organization to identify programmatic opportunities to engage donors in the mission of the Jones Center.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with volunteers in fundraising, particularly the Development Council, Golf Event committee, and other volunteers supporting the work of the Development team.
• Maintaining accountability and confidentiality with donor records and ensuring compliance with all regulations, laws, and the code of ethics for fundraising professionals.
• Remaining informed of developments in philanthropy, fund development, and fundraising event management.
• Fostering a culture of philanthropy throughout the Jones Center that ensures fundraising is executed in keeping with the organization's values, vision, and mission.
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Required Skills and Abilities

• A motivated and enthusiastic team player with leadership skills.
• Strong project management and event coordination skills.
• Experience managing a revenue and expense budget, including financial forecasting, planning, and reporting.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and collaborate with colleagues across the Jones Center.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong storytelling and case-making skills.
• Ability to create and track itemized budgets.
• Effective problem-solving, prioritization, strategic planning, and decision-making skills.
• Strong presentation, communication, negotiation, and listening skills.
• Strong understanding and adherence to fundraising ethics, principles, strategies, and tactics.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and managing client relationship databases and related software.

Education, Training, and Experience

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience in related fields such as fundraising, event planning, business development, communications, marketing, and business administration.
• Three years of full-time professional experience in a related role or field.
• Strong interpersonal and management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Analytical thinking and the ability to analyze data.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to remain stationary, occasionally standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
• Ability to lift 15 pounds occasionally.