Manager, Development

Manager, Development

Smile Train is the world's leading cleft focused organization. Our goal is to transform the lives of every person impacted by a cleft lip or palate. We train and support doctors and medical professionals to provide our patients with free, life-changing, comprehensive cleft treatment. Our sustainable model has allowed us to reach more than 2 million children in 90+ countries in the past 25 years, and we still feel like we've just started. We are truly changing the world one smile at a time!

The Manager, Development plays a critical donor facing role on Smile Train's Mid-Level Development team, responsible for strengthening donor relationships and driving sustained philanthropic support. This position supports and executes strategies for the mid-level donor audience ($2,500 – $24,999) and prospects ($1,000 – $2,499) capable of making four and five-figure gifts, with a focus on retention, growth, and pipeline development. The Manager will contribute to the success and continuous improvement of the Mid-Level Program by proactively engaging donors through strategic outreach and personalized stewardship. This role collaborates closely with colleagues across Development and supports donor movement toward major and planned giving, ensuring a strong pipeline and building foundation for our ambitious fundraising 5-year strategic plan.

This is a full time, hybrid position based in New York City, requiring two office days per week.

Key Responsibilities

• Refine strategy and perform execution of the mid-level program's cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship efforts in partnership with Senior Director, Development.
• Collaborate with the Manager, Development (Program) to support donor centric, data informed strategies that move donors through the fundraising pipeline and drive revenue from key segments.
• Work closely with Manager, Stewardship to plan timing and execute delivery of stewardship messages to all mid-level program donors.
• Actively manage donor relationships through personalized (and one-to-few) outreach, including calls, handwritten notes, meetings, and tailored email communications.
• Carry out fundamental stewardship of donors who give multiple gifts throughout the year.
• Support the department's fundraising strategies by analyzing data and aiding in segmentation of donors.
• Conduct donor research by using platforms such as iWave, Google, LinkedIn and Salesforce and layering onto existing donor reports.
• Serve as a primary contact for incoming inquiries from mid-level donors.
• Contribute to and support mid-level campaigns, appeals, and stewardship initiatives in coordination with the broader Development team.
• Maintain accurate, timely records of donor interactions, moves management, and pipeline activity in the CRM (Salesforce), ensuring strong data quality and reporting.
• Contribute to the overall success of Smile Train by performing other essential duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Candidate Profile

We are seeking a strategic, motivated fundraising professional with experience managing donor data and building meaningful relationships within a global nonprofit environment. The ideal candidate understands the full donor lifecycle and brings a thoughtful, donor-centered approach to cultivation and stewardship.

This individual balances data-driven decision-making with authentic relationship-building, using insights to segment, engage, and upgrade donors while connecting them deeply to Smile Train's vision and impact. They are organized, proactive, and adaptable, and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced development setting.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in philanthropy, marketing, communications, nonprofit management, or a related field—or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in fundraising or nonprofit development, ideally within annual fund, membership, or mid-level portfolio management.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling donor narratives and impact driven messaging.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite with strong organizational and time management skills.
• Robust experience with donor CRM systems, preferably Salesforce or Raiser's Edge, including data analysis and donor segmentation.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to manage sensitive donor relationships and collaborate effectively across teams.

Preferred Education and Experience

• Demonstrated success managing a donor portfolio and meeting revenue goals.
• Self-starter with a strategic mindset and the ability to work independently while contributing to team initiatives.
• Detail oriented and analytical, with a commitment to continuous improvement and data informed decision making.
• Collaborative team player with a positive attitude, curiosity, and sense of humor.
• Experience working in a healthcare, international development, or global NGO setting is a plus.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

• Working knowledge of Asana

Compensation

$70,000-$75,000

Travel

10-15%

Accountability Expectations

• Ownership of Outcomes: Take full responsibility for one's own performance, ensuring alignment with Smile Train's mission and objectives.
• Transparent Communication: Communicate openly and effectively with team members, fostering trust and a shared understanding of expectations and priorities.
• Emotional Intelligence: Demonstrate empathy, understanding, and cultural sensitivity to contribute to an inclusive and supportive team environment.
• Empowerment: Effectively communicate with supervisors to ensure you are equipped with the resources, guidance, and autonomy you need to excel in your role.
• Team Cohesion: Contribute to a culture of collaboration, mutual respect, and shared accountability, helping the team to thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Why You'll Love Working Here!

Meaningful Work – Be part of work that creates meaningful, lasting impact — changing the world one smile at a time.

We've Got You 100% Covered – Prioritize the health of you and your family with top tier, comprehensive health, pharmacy, dental, and vision coverage.

Plan for Your Future - Build toward your long-term goals with our 401(k) retirement plan and generous employer match to help invest in your future.

Rest and Recharge - Enjoy a generous PTO package, paid holidays, and sick time so you can rest, recharge, and return feeling your best.

Family Matters - We support employees through life's most important moments with paid parental leave and family care benefits, giving you time and flexibility for the people who matter most.

Mind Your Mental – Free access to professional mental health counseling to keep you grounded.

Learn and Grow - Take advantage of an annual professional development stipend and opportunities to expand your skills and continue learning.

Work Your Way - Balance collaboration and flexibility with our hybrid work model, based out of our conveniently located Midtown Manhattan office.

Travel the World – See our impact firsthand while partnering with global colleagues and programs through opportunities for domestic and international travel.

Application Process

Smile Train is an equal opportunity employer, committed to inclusive hiring and dedicated to diversity in our work and staff. We strongly encourage candidates from all groups and communities to apply.

To apply, please complete the application online. Include your CV and a cover letter explaining why you would be a good fit for Smile Train and this role. Only those who provide a cover letter as directed will be considered. We encourage interested applicants to submit their applications as soon as possible.