Senior Manager, Donor Relations

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Wyss Institute at Harvard University?

The Wyss Institute’s mission is to transform healthcare and the environment by emulating the way nature builds. We harness the imagination of academia and the focus of industry to translate ground-breaking technologies into commercial products that solve big problems. We support research that universities, companies, and venture capital firms don’t fund because they view it as too risky.  We prefer to use the word “challenging,” and we love challenges. For more information discover our technologies, catch up on our recent news, or watch our latest videos.

About you: 

You are a collaborative, impact-focused problem solver who wants to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to creating and commercializing novel approaches to global challenges in healthcare and sustainability. You want the opportunity to innovate and apply your knowledge to tackle projects in a fast past-paced, entrepreneurial environment. You enjoy working with highly motivated, diverse teams and leveraging your expertise to create innovations that can change the world. 

About the role: 

We are looking a Senior Manager of Donor Relations to partner closely with the Director of Strategic Engagement to strategically grow and manage a growing portfolio of new prospects and donors. In this role, you will be a key contributor to expanding the donor base and strengthening stewardship practices that align with the Institutes’ strategic goals.  You will serve integral member of the Strategic Engagement Team and also interact with a wide range of world-renowned academic innovators and scientists or engineers, as well as with industry experienced research and development professionals. You will also be working closely with internal grants teams, communications and business development professionals, as well as with development specialists at Harvard University’s Development Office (UDO).

What you'll do: 

Portfolio Growth and Management:

• Identify, collaborate and solicit a portfolio of new prospects and donors in collaboration with the Director.
• Support the design and execution of donor engagement strategies, including the planning of special events and the creation of high-impact engagement sessions for prospects. Work in collaboration with the Event and other Wyss internal teams to align these opportunities with organization priorities.
• Coach internal staff and evaluate presentation to ensure alignment with philanthropic interests and organization priorities.
• Manage event budget with oversight from the Director and in collaboration with Events team.
• Research and analyze donor capacity, interests and philanthropic priorities to inform engagement strategies.

Donor and Prospect Engagement & Stewardship:

• Develop and deliver personalized donor communications in collaboration with the Communications team
• Identify compelling topics, narratives, and updates reflective of target audiences’ philanthropic passions.
• Finalize all donor facing materials, including proposals, campaign tools and reports in collaboration with the Communications team, Faculty and Researchers
• Oversee stewardship of annual reporting and ensure timely acknowledgement and recognition of gifts.
• Oversee the Instrumentation Gift Program, an established program which funds lab enhancement and equipment. Ensure user feedback from this program aligns with active usage of instruments and appropriate project alignment.

Data and Systems Optimization:

• Identify gaps in data analysis and provide recommendations to strengthen reporting and streamline processes.
• Contribute to the Development and implementation of new systems that support efficient and timely proposal creation for the Institute

Networking and Relationship Building:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with prospects, donors, staff, faculty and other key stakeholders to expand the Institute network or supporters
• Represent the Institute at events, meetings and other engagement opportunities
• Demonstrate a commitment to teamwork, scientific rigor, and collaboration within and across teams. 

What you'll need:

• Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 7 years of related experience. Advanced knowledge of fundraising required.

Desirable skills:

• Prior experience in a science or technology focused organization
• Strong track record in engaging new donors and raising philanthropic funds
• Excellent organizational skills and /or team leadership experience

•  Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, and Education. 

Why you’ll like working with us:  

At the Wyss Institute, you’re a member of a supportive, dynamic community that is united by its shared goal of changing the world through groundbreaking technology development and commercialization. We encourage your professional growth and development through mentorship and tuition reimbursement to support continued learning, and more. We also support your physical, financial, and mental well-being through generous time off benefits, gym reimbursements, and other programs offered through Harvard. Our facility is located in a new, state-of-the-art life sciences building in the lively Fenway neighborhood, where you have access to multiple amenities including a roof top terrace with stunning views of Boston and proximity to numerous restaurants and cultural attractions.  We value an inclusive and diverse workforce, and believe that our differences enrich the work environment for all. 

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 058. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.