Development Operations and Database Manager

Position Title: Development Operations Specialist 

Department: Development

Reports To: Sr. Vice President of Philanthropy

Location: Audubon Zoo

FLSA Status:Exempt

Position Type: Full-Time

What You’ll Do: The Development Operations Specialist  will ensure departmental effectiveness by providing strategic management of department administrative and organizational functions as well as the accuracy and integrity of donor data. This position is responsible for maintaining the Raiser’s Edge database, supervising daily office operations, supporting all fundraising programs, maintaining accurate financial records and donor correspondence, and providing project assistance as needed. The Director of Development Operations oversees the daily operation of the Raiser's Edge database and is responsible for maintaining its accuracy and integrity. This position exhibits a holistic approach to the database, understanding the needs of the three fundraising departments and guiding users accordingly. The Director of Development Operations works collaboratively with the Member Services, Development, and Development Events teams to ensure the accurate maintenance of records, provide custom reporting and lists, monitor and improve on processes, and serve as a resource for ongoing and special projects as well as end-user training and support. The position requires meticulous attention to detail, superior organizational skills, and exceptional prioritization and time management skills. The Director of Development Operations supervises the Development Operations team, striving for accurate, efficient back-of-house systems to support forward-facing fundraisers with industry best practices.

Day to Day Responsibilities 

• Manage the Development Operations Manager, primarily responsible for Development and Development Events gift processing and database maintenance; actively develop Manager to think independently and take on new tasks through software training, webinars, inclusion in meetings, and one-on-one training. Manage the Database Associate, primarily responsible for gift entry and database cleanliness. 
• Serve as the in-house resource for Audubon Nature Institute's Raiser's Edge users, recognizing users as the primary internal customer or guest.
• Perform frequent queries, reports, and audits to ensure accuracy and integrity of the database, addressing errors or maintenance issues promptly. Use this information to identify and establish areas for database growth/cleanliness.
• Perform global uploads and imports as necessary including the documentation of all outgoing communication and solicitation though actions and appeals.
• Apply critical thinking and analytical skills maximize Audubon’s use of the Raiser’s Edge and build on established procedures, working effectively with users to enhance workflow efficiency.
• Provide fundraising departments with project support including global data imports, customized reports and prospect profiles, solicitor management, and mailing lists.
• Manage financial reports for Audubon’s yearly audit and 990 tax report including stock donations, major giving, in-kind, event revenue, auction, and disqualified persons reporting.
• Manage reporting for fundraising departments including reports on revenue, donors, appeals, campaigns, demographics, geography, solicitations, prospects, and other special reports. 
• Develop and track annual department budget, including researching and preparing the annual Development Department expense and revenue budgets. Review the General Ledger Reports and Budget Summary Statements for all Development sub-accounts monthly. 
• Support colleagues in the production of Audubon fundraising, stewardship, and member recognition events including Scales & Ales, exhibit openings, press conferences, donor appreciation events, ZOObilation/Flutters & Fins, and the Zoo-To-Do events.

Additional/Overall Skills:

• Maintain a positive attitude and a strong sense of accountability, fostering a collaborative team environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute.
• Thrive in a team environment, using organizational and technical skills to ensure the smooth execution of creative projects that resonate with our audience.
• Celebrate the successes of your team and bring enthusiasm to your work, reflecting the joyful culture that is at the heart of Audubon’s mission.
• Stay adaptable and open to learning new skills, embracing change and innovation as opportunities to lead and grow.
• The above-listed duties are general statements of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. They do not exclude other duties as assigned.

What We’re Looking For

 Must Haves: 

• Database management experience
• Proficiency in Blackbaud’s Raiser’s Edge or similar software
• Experience in a professional office environment
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• Attentive to detail

 Nice-to-Haves: 

• Supervisory experience 
• Proficiency in use of Microsoft products 
• Proficiency in use of Adobe Acrobat  

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit for extended periods (up to 8 hours). 
• Minimal standing and walking required.
• Occasionally lift and carry items weighing up to 10 pounds.
• Ability to use hands and fingers to operate office equipment, including computer keyboards, telephones, and printers 
• May involve repetitive motions. 
• Clear and concise vision (with or without correction) for close-up work.

Environmental Conditions:

• Indoor office environment.
• Climate-controlled setting.
• Minimal exposure to noise, vibration, or other environmental hazards.