Manager of Development Operations

Manager of Development Operations Seattle Children’s Theatre seeks a Manager of Development Operations to lead the data-driven and operational work that supports successful fundraising outcomes. This role oversees the systems, processes, and reporting that power the Development department’s revenue-generating efforts, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and strategic insight across all fundraising activities. The Manager of Development Operations is responsible for gift processing and reconciliation, donor acknowledgments, database management, reporting and analysis, operational administration, and prospect research and portfolio support. Utilizing the organization’s CRM, Tessitura, this position ensures the integrity of donor data, delivers comprehensive reporting to inform fundraising strategy and decision-making, and manages the operational infrastructure that supports exceptional donor stewardship and organizational growth. About Seattle Children’s Theatre Seattle Children’s Theatre has served more than 4 million children since its founding in 1975 through professional theatre and arts education in the Puget Sound region and beyond. Our mission is to provide children of all ages access to professional theatre, with a focus on new works and theatre education. SCT is committed to equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion in all areas of our work. We encourage applicants of all races, ethnicities, religions, gender identities and expressions, sexual orientations, abilities, ages, and backgrounds to apply. We value nontraditional career paths and transferable skills. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Data Integrity and Management, Gift Administration, Operations & Analysis (≈ 50%) Process and manage all gift processing activities, including contribution entry, pledge creation and tracking, matching gifts, and donor record maintenance, ensuring accuracy and timeliness across all contributed revenue streams in Tessitura. Manage the generation, review, and distribution of donor acknowledgments, tax receipts, and stewardship communications to ensure timely donor recognition and compliance with organizational standards. Serve as the primary point of contact for donor inquiries related to contributions, receipts, pledge balances, and matching gifts, providing responsive and donor-centered service. Manage departmental operational workflows, including gift processing procedures, acknowledgment schedules, and data standards to ensure efficient and consistent execution. Partner with IT and cross-functional teams to develop, maintain, and enhance automated and ad-hoc reports, dashboards, and data tools that support fundraising strategy and organizational goals. Ensure compliance with organizational policies, accounting standards, audit requirements, and CRM best practices related to gift documentation, donor records, and data integrity. Reporting and Analysis (≈ 20%) Generate, analyze, and distribute contributed revenue and fundraising reports, dashboards, and data insights from Tessitura to support departmental goals and decision-making. Collaborate with the Finance department to reconcile monthly, quarterly, and year-end gift activity, prepare audit-ready documentation, and ensure accurate revenue reporting. Lead data analysis and reporting on donor trends, campaign performance, fundraising outcomes, and contributed revenue activity to support strategic decision-making. General Operations and Administration (≈ 20%) Coordinate departmental operations, including meeting logistics, expense tracking, supply management, and cross-functional collaboration. Develop and maintain operational documentation, forms, procedures, and training resources to support consistent and efficient department workflows. Support organizational audits and special events by maintaining accurate records, preparing required documentation, and managing event data and RSVPs in Tessitura. Donor Engagement and Portfolio Support (≈ 10%) Partner with frontline fundraisers to maintain donor and prospect records, monitor portfolio performance, and track progress toward individual and departmental fundraising goals. Prepare portfolio review and prospect strategy materials, providing analysis and recommendations to support donor qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship efforts. Manage systems, policies, and data governance related to moves management, contact reporting, proposal tracking, and portfolio optimization to support effective fundraising practices. Culture & Equity Leadership (Ongoing) Model SCT’s organizational values and actively participate in equity and anti-racism training and implementation. Promote a culture of philanthropy by building strong internal partnerships and encouraging cross-departmental collaboration on fundraising goals. Contribute to a positive, inclusive workplace by supporting staff development, fostering open communication, and integrating feedback into operations. Actively participate in equity, diversity, accessibility and inclusion initiatives, including attending all-staff meetings & training. Embody the organization’s mission, vision, and values in all work aspects. Other duties as assigned. Desired Skills and Qualifications Required Skills 2+ years of experience in fundraising, communications, or a related nonprofit role, with a growing understanding of donor engagement, project coordination, data entry and reporting, and collaborative work in a mission-driven environment. Experience with Tessitura or a comparable CRM/database. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize multiple deadlines. Availability to work occasional evenings and weekends, particularly during key periods such as year-end and major fundraising events. Effective communicator with strong interpersonal skills and discretion with confidential information. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; quick to learn new systems. Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in the workplace. Preferred Skills & Nice-to-Haves 3+ years’ experience in nonprofit development or financial operations. 1+ year of Tessitura experience. Interest in data analytics and process improvement. Passion for live theatre and youth arts education. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience. Physical Requirements & Work Environment Location This position is based at 201 Thomas St, Seattle, WA, in a typical office setting. The work requires on-site presence with occasional evenings and weekends. The site is accessible via public transportation. This position is eligible for one scheduled day of remote work per week after the 90 days. Schedule This is a full-time, hourly position typically scheduled for 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, 9 am - 5 pm. Occasional evening and weekend hours may be required to support fundraising events and Opening Nights. Flexible scheduling to support work-life balance may be discussed as needed. After a successful 90-day introductory period, this position becomes eligible for one regularly scheduled remote workday per week. Remote work approval is subject to the needs of the business and must be coordinated in advance with the employee’s supervisor. Tasks May Include Remaining in a stationary position for extended periods. Using computers, phones, and office equipment. Moving printed materials and supplies up to 20 lbs. Navigating office space for meetings and collaboration. Benefits Hourly Pay Range: $32.63 - $32.63 per hour (non-exempt, Grade 25) Generous Vacation & Sick Time. Health, Dental, and Vision: Employer-paid coverage. Retirement: Optional 403(b) plan. Additional: FSA options, discounted ORCA Passport, discounted parking. SCT uses a transparent, negotiation-free compensation structure to ensure pay equity across roles. Grade levels and pay are based on the scope and responsibilities outlined in each job description. Seattle Children’s Theatre provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. We are committed to building a welcoming workplace for people of all backgrounds and experiences. We believe that diversity of thought, background, and identity makes us stronger and enriches our work. #J-18808-Ljbffr