Annual Giving Communications Senior Manager

Position Summary:

Responsible for planning and executing the activities associated with the Annual Fund (acquisition, retention, and cultivation of individual donors) in collaboration with the Vice President of Development and Director of Development. This position will design, plan, and implement fundraising strategies to increase Omaha Performing Arts’ donor base. The Annual Giving Communications Senior Manager also plays a pivotal role communicating the impact of gifts on O-pa’s programs. Values points-of-view and experiences that are shaped by each individual’s unique background, celebrates diversity, and actively stands as an ally. Must adhere to O-pa’s Core Values of Team, Inclusion, Trust, and Integrity.

Position Duties and Responsibilities:

Donor Acquisition and Renewal

• Work with the Director of Development to plan and execute the Annual Campaign through renewal, acquisition, and stewardship efforts.
• Meet the annual revenue goal of $1+ million by increasing donor giving and growing the quantity of donor households.
• Manage relationships with approximately 250 donor households (Circles of Giving members) to ensure retention and continued support for Annual Giving.
• Develop strategies to transition 1,000+ nonmembers (gifts under $150) into annual Circles of Giving donors.
• Manage the Super Subscriber membership program ($100 donors/Subscribers) with approximately 800 Super Subscribers.
• Use research and patron data to segment audiences for targeted appeal solicitations.
• Track appeal ROIs with Development Systems Coordinator and use results to inform changes in strategy of messaging when appropriate.
• Develop and monitor the Annual Campaign revenue and expense budgets.
• Manage all crowdfunding fundraising campaigns and platforms.
• Manage the Staff Giving Drive.

Content Creation

• Manage all communication for the Annual Campaign including targeted appeals, acknowledgement letters, and print materials for individual donors.
• Develop persuasive content that effectively conveys O-pa’s mission.
• Coordinate the design, production, and inventory tracking of all materials needed for direct mail campaigns.
• Design fundraising strategies and implementation tactics across multiple channels with a focus on digital, face-to-face, and direct mail, including compelling and engaging supporter journeys.
• Provide creative vision and strategy for the ongoing evolution of the Circles of Giving program, in keeping with current best practices in the sector.

Donor Stewardship

• Create effective and timely communication to keep donors apprised of how their gifts are utilized.
• Develop and fulfill benefits for Circles of Giving donors (venue tours, donor holiday event, season reveal, behind-the-scenes experiences, and engagement opportunities).
• Plan and implement recognition for Circles of Giving donors (program book, community report, etc.).
• Plan and implement donor experiences for Circles of Giving donors and Super Subscribers in conjunction with various performances throughout the season to further engage donors.
• Build relationships and visit personally with individual donors to build portfolio of donors.
• Provide high-level donor relations support as needed.

Required Qualifications:

• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, and a strong preference for experience writing/editing direct response fundraising copy.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.

Minimum Experience and Qualifications:

• Four or more years’ applicable experience in development and/or patron services
• Individual giving experience including leading strategic campaigns
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Proven ability to research, plan and think strategically
• Must be able to take initiative
• Ability to follow through with strict attention to detail
• Ability to work in a team setting with people from diverse backgrounds
• Ability to prioritize and manage several tasks concurrently
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Products (Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint)
• Experience in web-based research and the use of CRM software, specifically development and ticketing
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None

Minimum Education Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited university or college.
• Advanced degree in Arts Management, Marketing, or Communications preferred.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None

Physical Demands:

• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Required to sit for extended periods of time.
• Requires the ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Equipment/Machinery Used:

• General office equipment (computer, telephone, fax, copier and printer)