Director of Donor Relations and Events

POSITION PURPOSE

As a key member of the Greater Philadelphia YMCA (GPY) fundraising team, the Director of Donor Relations and Events will work with both the Chief Development Officer and Senior Development Director to develop and implement key event fundraising tactics for the organization.  He/She/They would translate GPY priorities into appropriate donor relations and event fundraising opportunities that align with a long-term development plan to support continued growth of the organization.  He/She/They would collaborate and work closely with leadership on the continued efficiency and effectiveness of donor relations and special events.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• In conjunction with the Senior Development Director and Development Staff, the Event and Donor Relations Specialist will be responsible for the management and execution of all GPY Association Events to support our innovative programs and campaigns.  Maintain fluid and proactive communications with colleagues to ensure effective collaborations and synergy in achieving key fundraising goals and objectives.
• Research, cultivate and solicit new and existing donors in collaboration with the Development Department and Executive Directors to support special events to secure sponsorships and donations.
• Support event committees through record keeping, planning meetings, preparing minutes and correspondence. Creating and updating online silent auctions and ensuring a smooth purchase process for the donor.
• Support communication and coordination with event vendors. Continuously monitor all expenses to deliver the utmost quality at the best price.
• Plan the logistics of the event including project planning and execution, while following the event budget.
• Collaborate with the marketing department on materials including signs, programs, nametags and handouts. Execute donor mailings including event invitations and remit envelopes.
• Maintain and update all special event timelines, action items and future plans. 
• Be the key associate at special events including preparation, set-up, event execution and tear-down.  Assist and consult Executive Directors and their teams for branch events.
• Perform post-event surveys for continuous feedback and improvement
• Develop a comprehensive understanding of the educational, programmatic, financial needs and goals of the GPY to gain compelling articulation for investors.
• Demonstrate growth of event fundraising and profitability year over year through cultivation of new prospects.
• In conjunction with the Chief Development Officer, Senior Development Director and development team members, establish, oversee and maintain information tracking process regarding acknowledgement, recognition, ongoing communications, and continued cultivation for past and current donors across the Association: Individual, Corporate, and Foundation.
• Manage an annual stewardship process for all donor levels that includes but is not limited to acknowledgement, donor communications, event invitations, volunteer opportunities and public recognition.
• Ability to articulate, both written and orally, a compelling case for major philanthropic support for unrestricted funding or specific programs, presenting objectives persuasively to potential donors.
• Fulfill additional duties as a function of the Development Department