Development & Engagement Manager

Development & Engagement Manager 

Position Summary

Temple Shaaray Tefila, a vibrant 700+ member Reform synagogue on the Upper East Side, is celebrating its 180^th anniversary and entering an exciting period of growth. Supported by dynamic clergy and a talented professional team, we are seeking an exceptional Development & Engagement Manager to report to the Director of Development. This role focuses on cultivating congregant relationships, stewarding contributions, leading events and advancing key growth areas. This department manages an annual revenue goal exceeding $1.8M. This is a full-time, in-person, exempt position.

Primary Responsibilities:

Fundraising & Research: 

• Lead the planning and execution of various fundraising campaigns in partnership with the Dir. of Development.
• Cultivate, solicit, and steward donor relationships through proactive, strategic outreach.
• Maintain accurate donor records, track pledges, engagement and giving activity within the database.
• Generate reports to optimize outreach and contributions.
• Conduct donor research using internal and external tools to identify prospects, assess giving capacity, analyze trends, and strengthen overall fundraising efforts.

Campaign Management: 

• Collaborate with all departments to enhance the members’ experience, including High Holy Days.
• Responsible for planning and executing donor engagement events, managing timelines, budgets, guest lists, vendors, and logistics; partner on special projects such as building initiatives and dedication opportunities.
• Commitment to achieving fundraising goal for the Annual Appeal including campaign planning, communications, and outreach tracking to ensure progress toward fundraising goals.
• Support annual Gala by assisting with fundraising efforts, coordinating outreach, supporting committee members, managing auction and journal processes, and creating marketing content.
• Drive the expansion of special projects, including legacy giving and corporate sponsorships.
• Oversee and improve the memorial yahrzeit plaque program, including order management and ongoing maintenance of sanctuary plaques.

Member Engagement & Donor Stewardship:

• Drive a culture of philanthropy by developing and implementing strategies that deepen member engagement and increase annual giving.
• Cultivate, steward, and expand relationships with members and committees through ongoing engagement.
• Deliver high-quality member experience that supports retention and recruitment, partnering with the Membership team to align strategies and outcomes.

Marketing & Communications:

• Collaborate with the Communications department to produce marketing materials for fundraising initiatives, including invitations, event collateral, digital communications, and website content.
• Manage the development of print publications, such as the annual donor brochure, to recognize supporters and highlight the synagogue’s mission.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree required
• Experience: 3-5 years of experience in non-profit fundraising, development, or special events.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to build relationships.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with keen attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.
• Experience managing multiple projects and planning events, including major fundraisers and cultivation events.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with staff, lay leaders, and volunteers.
• High level of discretion in handling confidential financial and personal information.
• Willingness to work on occasional weekends, evenings as required and High Holy Days.
• Provide support for main office phone coverage as needed
• Proficiency in CRM systems, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and Zoom.