Description

About Junior Achievement: Junior Achievement (JA) is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring and preparing young people to succeed in a rapidly changing economy. Through innovative programs in financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship, JA empowers students to own their economic success. By partnering with schools, businesses, and volunteers, Junior Achievement of Oklahoma reaches more than 60,000 students annually, helping them develop the skills they need to thrive in the 21st century. 

Position Overview: Junior Achievement of Oklahoma City is seeking a dedicated and strategic Donor Relations Manager to join our team. The central focus of this position will be fundraising by adopting a relationship-based approach to fundraising. This role is crucial for deepening engagement with corporate partners, foundations, and individual donors to support our mission and expand our programs. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in fundraising, developing partnerships, and managing donor relations, complemented by strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Key Responsibilities:

Fundraising Campaigns and Initiatives: Execute successful fundraising campaigns and initiatives, including events, to engage broader donor segments and secure funding for key programs.  Collaborate with marketing and programs teams to create compelling sponsorship opportunities and cause-related marketing campaigns. This position will raise funds from multiple donor channels such as corporate donors, foundations, special events, and individual givers. The fundraising expectation of this position is to raise 3-5 times their annual pay yearly. This position will also be specifically responsible for at least one of the special events that supports the fundraising efforts (for example JA BizTown Bowl, JA Golf Classic). 

Strategic Relationship Development: Proactively identify, cultivate, and maintain relationships with corporate partners, foundations, and individual donors to secure sustained financial support for Junior Achievement's programs.  Collaborate with the Director of Development to implement tailored engagement strategies for key donors and prospects that align with organizational goals and donor interests. The expectation of this position is to develop 3-5 new potential donor relationships each week.

Donor Engagement and Stewardship: Act as the primary point of contact for assigned donors, providing exceptional stewardship to ensure a positive and engaging donor experience.  Regularly communicate with donors through personalized updates, meetings, special events, and site visits, highlighting the impact of their contributions. 

Grant Support: Work closely with the Director of Development to identify funding opportunities, partner on compelling grant proposals, and ensure timely submissions that resonate with funder priorities and align with Junior Achievement’s strategic objectives. 

Collaborative Efforts and Team Engagement: Engage with various departments including programs, marketing, and finance, ensuring a coordinated approach to donor engagement and maximizing fundraising effectiveness.  Participate in team meetings and strategy sessions and engage in professional development to continually enhance fundraising and donor relations skills and knowledge. 

This position is designed to integrate closely with the JAOK’s strategic vision, emphasizing the importance of building lasting relationships with donors to foster a sustainable philanthropic environment. The Donor Relations Manager will be instrumental in promoting a culture of philanthropy that supports Junior Achievement of Oklahoma City’s goals and mission.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in nonprofit management, business administration, communications, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, corporate partnerships, or related field, with a proven track record of securing and stewarding major gifts.
• Strong relationship-building and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect with diverse stakeholders and inspire support for Junior Achievement's mission.
• Excellent communication skills, including writing, public speaking, and presentation abilities.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and implement effective fundraising strategies and initiatives.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and donor management software (e.g., Salesforce).
• Passion for education, youth empowerment, and social impact.

Junior Achievement is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity and inclusion in all aspects of employment.