Philanthropy Manager

San Diego Botanic Garden (SDBG) is seeking an energetic, people-oriented, and strategic Philanthropy Manager to drive our annual fundraising programs and deepen relationships with our community of supporters. Reporting directly to the Chief Advancement and Engagement Officer, the Philanthropy Manager plays a central role in managing multi-channel fundraising campaigns and programs, organizing and writing grant proposals, facilitating events, and stewarding mid- to high-level donors and corporate sponsors. This position works within a fast-paced and nimble three-person team to achieve annual revenue targets and build sustainable support for our mission. The candidate must appreciate and be able to grow a passion for the Garden's mission. This is a full-time exempt position that requires occasionally working on evenings, weekends and holidays. Starting annual salary is $70,500. Essential Requirements Annual Giving & Direct Response (30%) Plan, execute, and evaluate multi-channel direct response appeals, including direct mail, email campaigns, Giving Tuesday, and end-of-year giving. Grow and maintain the recurring monthly giving and mid- to high-level membership programs, focusing on donor acquisition and retention. Manage SDBG’s Tribute Bench Program. Support the legacy giving initiative. Launch the Around Town Discounts Program for SDBG Members. Create compelling appeal messaging and impact content in collaboration with marketing/communications. Memberships, Donor & Corporate Stewardship (25%) Cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of mid- and high-level donors to meet annual fundraising goals. Increase retention and upgrade prospects to major gift levels. Solicit and manage corporate sponsorships. Conduct donor thank-you calls and arrange site visits or meetings where appropriate. Maintain organized Contact Reports and enter information into SDBG’s CRM database. Event Management & Execution (15%) Lead the operational planning and execution of fundraising events. Coordinate vendors, logistics, event collateral, committee members, and day‑of volunteers. Track event budgets, revenue goals, and attendee engagement metrics. Grant Writing & Management (15%) Research and organize grants for SDBG. Support and/or draft and submit grant proposals and reports for foundations and corporate entities. Partner with program staff on grants. Communications & Operations Collaboration (15%) Draft customized acknowledgment letters, impact updates, and stewardship materials in a timely manner. Coordinate with the Database Specialist to ensure accurate donor/prospect tracking, guest lists, and donor segmenting. Education & Experience BA/BS degree in related fields, preferred. 2-4 years of experience in fundraising Work Environment & Physical Requirements Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. Ability to stand for 4 hours at a time. Ability to traverse uneven terrain through the property. Ability to perform light physical work including helping move furniture, signage, and event supplies. Desk work (sitting or standing) in an office at the Garden; walking outdoors on tours with guests; driving to attend offsite meetings and to pick up event supplies. Occasionally work weekends or evening shifts to assist with Garden events, some outdoors. Other Requirements Other duties, as assigned Ability to work evenings, weekends and holidays, as needed Possess a valid driver’s license Pass a background check #J-18808-Ljbffr San Diego Organizing Project