Development Manager

Overview The Development Manager is responsible for leading and strengthening the Symphony's annual fundraising and donor stewardship efforts while building the systems, processes, and relationships necessary to support long-term organizational growth. Working closely with the Executive Director, Board leadership, and Development Committee, the Development Manager will cultivate and steward donors, strengthen donor retention, grow subscriber-to-donor conversion, and build a sustainable major gift pipeline. This role requires an individual who is equally comfortable building authentic donor relationships and creating the organizational systems that ensure consistent stewardship and follow-through. The ideal candidate is highly organized, self-directed, relationship-oriented, and committed to advancing the mission of Mid-Texas Symphony through thoughtful donor engagement and exceptional stewardship. Compensation & Benefits Mid-Texas Symphony offers a competitive salary range of $58,000-$65,000, a SIMPLE IRA employer match up to 3%, an employer-paid healthcare membership, hybrid work flexibility, paid time off, professional development opportunities, and eligibility for an annual performance incentive. We are committed to providing a collaborative, flexible, and supportive workplace where employees can thrive professionally and personally. Salary Range: $58,000 - $65,000 based on experience. In addition to base compensation, the Development Manager may be eligible for an annual performance incentive based on overall performance and achievement of agreed-upon annual goals. Donor Relations & Fundraising Cultivate, steward, and strengthen relationships with current and prospective donors. Develop and implement donor engagement strategies that increase retention, loyalty, and long-term support. Assist in identifying, cultivating, and soliciting major gift prospects. Support the Executive Director and Board leadership in donor cultivation and stewardship activities. Manage donor acknowledgment, recognition, and stewardship processes. Coordinate donor receptions, cultivation events, and engagement opportunities throughout the season. Help grow subscriber-to-donor conversion and annual giving participation. Development Systems & Infrastructure Maintain accurate donor records and relationship histories within the donor database. Develop and manage donor stewardship systems and tracking processes. Create and maintain fundraising dashboards, reports, and performance metrics. Implement portfolio segmentation strategies to improve donor engagement. Assist in developing a sustainable major gift pipeline and donor journey process. Marketing & Communications Support Collaborate with staff and volunteers to support donor communications and fundraising campaigns. Assist with donor-focused marketing materials, appeals, and stewardship communications. Support efforts to communicate the impact of donor investment and community engagement. Organizational Leadership & Community Engagement Represent Mid-Texas Symphony at concerts, donor events, and community functions. Support front-of-house donor engagement activities during performances and special events. Participate as an active member of the Symphony team, contributing to a collaborative and mission-driven culture. Other duties as assigned in support of development and organizational goals. Core Competencies Relationship Building: Builds authentic, trust-based relationships with donors, patrons, volunteers, board members, and community stakeholders to strengthen long-term engagement and support. Planning & Organizing: Effectively manages multiple priorities, donor relationships, stewardship activities, and reporting through strong organizational systems and consistent follow-through. Initiative: Takes ownership of responsibilities, identifies opportunities, and advances projects and relationships with minimal supervision. Collaboration: Works cooperatively with staff, musicians, volunteers, board members, and community stakeholders to achieve goals and support a positive team culture. Adaptability & Emotional Intelligence: Demonstrates self-awareness, professionalism, and adaptability while building trust and working effectively with a variety of personalities. Skills & Qualifications Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience preferred. Two or more years of experience in fundraising, donor relations, advancement, nonprofit management, arts administration, hospitality, customer relations, or a related field preferred. Experience managing databases, CRM systems, donor management software, or similar relationship management platforms preferred. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed for concerts, donor events, and special programs. Passion for the arts and commitment to the mission of Mid-Texas Symphony. Additional Benefits Employer-paid Direct Primary Care membership with no employee cost 3% employer match through the organization's SIMPLE IRA retirement plan Hybrid work schedule with up to two remote workdays per week, based on organizational needs and performance schedules Paid time off Professional development opportunities Flexible scheduling opportunities following concerts, donor events, and major organizational activities Opportunity to help shape and grow the Symphony's fundraising program #J-18808-Ljbffr