Philanthropy Operations and Stewardship Specialist in Traverse City, Michigan at Goodwill Northern Michigan

The Philanthropy Operations and Stewardship Specialist serves as the department’s lead philanthropy operations professional, responsible for the systems, data, processes, and stewardship infrastructure that support fundraising success. This role leads donor CRM administration, data governance, reporting, and stewardship workflows, ensuring data integrity and operational excellence. Through analysis and independent judgment, the Specialist identifies opportunities to strengthen fundraising effectiveness, improve efficiency, and increase philanthropic revenue.

Key Responsibilities:

Philanthropy Operations & CRM Administration:

• Lead administration and continuous improvement of the donor CRM and philanthropy systems
• Establish data standards, workflows, automation, and quality controls
• Serve as subject matter expert on donor data, reporting, and stewardship processes
• Analyze donor and campaign data to inform fundraising strategy

Annual Giving:

• Lead annual giving program for donors up to $5,000
• Coordinate direct mail and digital campaigns, including segmentation, vendor coordination, and results tracking

Stewardship & Donor Experience:

• Design and improve donor stewardship systems and workflows
• Develop automated, data-driven donor engagement processes
• Support staff, Board members, and volunteers in stewardship and recognition efforts

Research & Analytics:

• Conduct prospect research and develop donor profiles
• Analyze donor behavior and fundraising performance to identify trends and opportunities

Operations & Events:

• Lead process improvements and operational projects
• Coordinate donor engagement events, including tours and small gatherings
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to align data, stewardship, and fundraising priorities

• Support the mission and values of Goodwill Northern Michigan
• Maintain confidentiality of donor information
• Perform other duties as assigned

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business, communications, data analytics, information systems, or related field; or equivalent experience
• 3–5 years of experience in fundraising operations, CRM/database administration, or a related field
• Experience managing donor databases/CRM systems, including data integrity, reporting, segmentation, and workflows
• Experience supporting fundraising campaigns, annual giving, or donor stewardship initiatives

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and inform decision-making
• Demonstrated ability to design and improve systems, processes, and workflows
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment
• Effective collaboration with staff, leadership, Board members, and external partners
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, CRM systems, and fundraising tools
• High attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy and confidentiality

Working Conditions:

• Hybrid work arrangement
• Routine sitting, standing, and occasional lifting up to 25lbs
• Occasional local travel and flexible schedule, including evenings or weekends