What are the responsibilities and job description for the Donor Engagement Specialist position at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden?
We are currently seeking a Donor Engagement Specialist to join our dynamic team! In this vital position, you will play a key role in cultivating and stewarding Riverbanks’ donors, members, sponsors, and partners. This position supports and helps ensure each donor, member, and sponsor experience is thoughtful, consistent, and reflects Riverbanks’ mission and impact. Reports to the Director of Development.
Essential Functions:
Stewardship
Assists with the development and implementation of a comprehensive stewardship plan to thank, recognize, and engage donors.
Coordinates donor acknowledgment and recognition processes, including thank-you letters, emails, and special outreach.
Coordinates donor recognition programs and events, ensuring personalized and consistent experiences.
Partners with Marketing to create compelling donor and sponsor stories that highlight impact.
Assists with planning and logistics for donor appreciation events, tours, and engagement activities.
Corporate Sponsorships
Coordinates accurate tracking and fulfillment of deliverables and reporting for all corporate sponsors.
Aids in the cultivation of new corporate relationships and supports renewal outreach.
Assists with proposals, presentations, and partnership materials.
Serves as the internal liaison for sponsor activations and benefits.
Events & Campaign Support
Provides coordination and support for major donor stewardship and fundraising events.
Assists with campaign-related recognition, communications, and materials.
Collaborates to create compelling Annual Fund and campaign stewardship communications.
Administration & Reporting
Maintains accurate donor and sponsorship data in CRM systems.
Tracks stewardship actions, sponsor deliverables, and event engagement metrics.
Provides reports and recommendations for ongoing improvement of stewardship efforts.
Supports Development team projects and other duties as assigned.
Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, or nonprofit management with 1-2 years of experience in fundraising, donor relations, or corporate partnerships preferred, or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities. Experience using CRM and POS system software a plus.
The ideal candidate will show initiative and be able to work independently and efficiently under deadlines on a variety of tasks and priorities while working in a collaborative environment and being a team player who will professionally and productively engage with others at varying levels of seniority. This position will have multiple projects simultaneously and demonstrate confidentiality. Will demonstrate attention to detail, prompt follow-through and proficient computer and data entry skills. Outstanding organization, interpersonal, and communication (written and verbal) skills are vital in this role. Flexible for occasional weekend, holiday and after-hours assignments. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver's license.
We’re not just looking for someone to fill a role. We’re looking for someone who wants to grow with us, be challenged, and take pride in the work they do. If you're passionate about community investment, are eager to contribute, and excited about becoming part of a team that values creating connections and inspiring action to positively impact wildlife and wild places, we’d love to hear from you!
