Development and Major Gifts Assistant

About the job

We are seeking a full-time Development and Major Gifts Assistant, reporting to the Director of Development.

We are seeking an energetic and responsible individual who has a strong interest in fundraising, major gifts, and special events, and is a team-oriented individual with exceptional organizational and communication skills.

The successful candidate must hold at least a bachelor's degree, and has a preferred minimum of one year of previous development experience.

Responsibilities will include:
-Assist the Director of Development by working on all aspects of fundraising.
-Draft and edit letters of inquiry, major gift solicitations, gift acknowledgements, and special letters.
-Assist the Director in the execution of our fundraising campaign. Duties include: track all gifts and pledges; draft, process, and mail donor correspondence; update the Campaign Progress Report and Newsletter.
-Act as Liaison to the Board of Directors and execute all aspects of four meetings annually. Duties include: schedule meetings, draft agendas, assemble board materials, arrange catering, organize phone conferencing and audio/visual needs, record and distribute minutes.
-Work with Membership Associate to execute major gifts campaign. Duties include: design, edit, print and mail major gift benefit packages; track gifts; follow up with donors via phone and email.
-Work with the Special Events Manager on essential aspects of 3-4 major annual benefit events. Duties include: manage follow-up calls to donors and prospects, track RSVP’s, prepare logistics and details for event day, provide on-site support during each event, and assist with post-event follow-up.
-Manage Institutional Support by drafting and mailing letters of inquiry, applications, and grant reports to foundations, and tracking all gifts and responses.
-Assist with general research, organization, and maintenance of Development files and archives.
-Provide general administrative support to the Development department.

The ideal applicant must possess the following skill-set:
-Professional demeanor, attention to detail, and excellent written and verbal communication skills
-Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and flexibility in high-stress situations
-Willingness to assist with all tasks needed to ensure the success of an event
-Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook)
-Must be willing to travel to Shelter Island and the Hamptons during at least 5-6 weekends each summer to assist with student concerts, community outreach programs, fundraising benefits, and other events. Transportation, lodging, and meals will be provided.
-Must be willing to work 2-4 evenings a month in order to assist with concerts and other special events throughout the year.

The following skills and experience are preferred but not required:
-Experience with Adobe InDesign and Photoshop
-Working knowledge of Raiser's Edge or similar database
-At least one year of development experience in a non-profit organization
-A background and/or interest in classical music or the performing arts

Please submit your one-page resume, cover letter, salary requirements and a recent writing sample for consideration.