Donor Engagement Manager

Primary Purpose / Position Summary

The Donor Engagement Manager is responsible for cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding a portfolio of mid-level and major donors in support of the Houston SPCA’s lifesaving mission. This position plays a central role in advancing donor relationships, deepening engagement, and increasing philanthropic revenue from individuals with the capacity to make annual gifts of $500 to $5,000.

Working closely with the Director of Development, the manager will oversee an assigned portfolio, design personalized donor strategies, and ensure consistent, meaningful donor experiences.

Essential Functions

• Manage a portfolio of mid-level and major donors (approximately 100–150 prospects), developing individualized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies.
• Partner with the Director of Development to identify new donor prospects and upgrade opportunities from the existing donor base.
• Conduct regular donor visits (in-person, phone, and virtual) to strengthen relationships and secure increased support.
• Prepare compelling donor communications, including proposals, impact reports, and personalized stewardship materials.
• Collaborate with the Development Specialist to ensure grant and corporate giving opportunities are aligned with donor strategies.
• Support the execution of donor stewardship events, tours, and small-group cultivation activities.
• Document all donor interactions, proposals, and touchpoints in Raiser’s Edge according to departmental standards.
• Work with the Operations & Donor Services team to ensure timely acknowledgments and donor recognition.
• Partner with the Director of Direct Marketing and Development Coordinators to identify and move donors seamlessly along the giving pipeline.
• Represent the Houston SPCA at events, donor tours, and community engagements with professionalism and enthusiasm.
• Serve as an ambassador for the mission, demonstrating knowledge of animal welfare programs and impact.

Why Houston SPCA

At Houston SPCA, your work directly supports animal rescue, care, and advocacy efforts across our community. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and believe that equitable access and opportunity strengthen our mission.

Houston SPCA is an equal opportunity employer.

Qualifications & Experience

• Passion for the mission of the Houston SPCA and the animals we serve.
• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, communications, business, or related field.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of fundraising or donor relations experience, with demonstrated success in individual giving.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills; ability to interact comfortably with donors, volunteers, board members, and staff.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to create compelling donor materials.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and experience with Raiser’s Edge or similar CRM required.
• Organized and detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• High degree of professionalism, discretion, and ethical conduct in handling donor information.
• Must be insurable under Houston SPCA’s auto policy and have a valid Texas driver’s license.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as required for donor meetings and special events.