Purpose of the Position
The Development & Events Manager addresses the organization's most critical need by dedicating professional capacity to fundraising, revenue generation, and signature event management. This newly created position will strengthen the South Bend Education Alliance's sustainability through strategic donor cultivation, grant acquisition, and professional event execution. The role combines development expertise with event management skills to build lasting relationships with donors, secure funding through grants and campaigns, and deliver exceptional experiences at our signature events.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Nonprofit Management, Communications, Business, Marketing, Public Relations, or related field
- Two to three years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, development, grant writing, or event management
- OR equivalent combination of education and progressive fundraising/development experience
- Demonstrated track record of successful fundraising outcomes and event execution
- Proficiency in donor database systems and fundraising software
Essential Job DutiesGrant Management & Research
- Conducts comprehensive research to identify grant opportunities aligned with organizational priorities
- Writes compelling grant proposals, letters of inquiry, and supporting materials
- Manages grant calendar, deadlines, and submission processes
- Coordinates grant reporting requirements and maintains funder relationships
- Tracks grant outcomes and maintains organized grant files and documentation
- Collaborates with CEO and program staff to develop fundable project proposals
Donor Cultivation & Stewardship
- Manages donor communication plans including acknowledgment letters, impact reports, and updates
- Conducts donor research and maintains comprehensive donor profiles
- Coordinates donor recognition activities and stewardship touches
- Identifies and qualifies prospects for major gift conversations
- Supports the CEO in preparing for donor meetings and solicitations
- Plans and executes donor appreciation events and touchpoints
Fundraising Campaign Coordination
- Assists in planning and implementing annual fundraising campaigns
- Develops campaign materials, timelines, and volunteer recruitment strategies
- Coordinates multi-channel fundraising appeals (mail, email, social media, events)
- Tracks campaign progress and provides regular reports to leadership and board
Signature Event Planning & Execution
- Leads planning and execution of major organizational events
- Manages all event logistics including venue selection, vendor coordination, budgeting, and timeline management
- Ensures events align with fundraising goals and organizational mission
- Evaluates event success and implements continuous improvements
- Manages event budgets and ensures financial goals are met
Database & Systems Management
- Maintains accurate and up-to-date donor database records
- Generates reports on fundraising metrics, donor retention, and campaign performance
- Utilizes database tools for segmentation, tracking, and analysis
Communications & Marketing Support
- Prepares fundraising and event-related communications materials
- Creates compelling donor stories and impact narratives
- Collaborates on social media content related to fundraising and events
- Develops sponsorship packages and recognition material
Required Technical Skills
- Strong grant writing skills with demonstrated success in securing funding
- Strong project management and organizational skills
- Social media platforms for fundraising and event promotion
- Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel and PowerPoint)
- Professional demeanor with donors, board members, and community partners
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Nonprofit Management or related field
- Three or more years of nonprofit development experience
- Experience managing events with 100+ attendees and budgets of $25,000+
- Knowledge of the South Bend Community School Corporation and local nonprofit organizations
- Familiarity with planned giving and major gift strategies
- Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, resourcefulness, and ability to problem-solve
- Flexibility and adaptability in a changing organizational environment
Key Performance Indicators
- Total funds raised annually (grants, individual donors, events)
- Number of new donors acquired and donor retention rate
- Database accuracy and completeness
- Successful execution of all signature events on time and within budget
Compensation & Benefits
Compensation: hourly
About South Bend Education Alliance
The South Bend Education Alliance is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation formed through the merger of the South Bend Alumni Association and the South Bend Education Foundation. Contributions to the South Bend Education Alliance are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Our mission is to support educational excellence in South Bend Community School Corporation.
Equal Opportunity Employment
South Bend Education Alliance is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment in which the dignity of all individuals is respected and maintained. Women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
Pay: $20.00 - $30.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
