Development Specialist
Who We Are
The Michigan Animal Rescue League (MARL) is one of southeast Michigan’s most established animal welfare organizations, serving the community since 1953. Our history and experience combined with constant evaluation of trends in animal welfare and sheltering have made us a necessary and respected asset within our community. As “A Different Breed of Shelter” we challenge the stereotypes of traditional animal shelters and believe that the “Quality of the Wait” can make all the difference in the future of an animal. MARL provides life-saving care to over 1,500 dogs and cats annually.
Why Join Our Team
At MARL we foster a vibrant team environment where collaboration, support, and a shared passion for animal welfare aren’t just words – we live it every day and it drives our success. Join us in our mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals and our community through great work and collective achievements.
- Competitive salary
- Competitive Medical and Dental Insurance
- 403(b) Retirement Savings Account with Match
- Employee Assistance Program
- Potential for Flexible Working Hours
- Generous Paid Time Off
- Discounted Veterinary Care for Your Pets
- Opportunities for Professional Development, Growth, and Continuing Education
- A Truly Positive and Collaborative Work Environment
Overview
Michigan Animal Rescue League (MARL) is seeking an experienced Development professional to join our dynamic team. The Development Specialist will play a vital role in creating and supporting donor relations activities, fundraising efforts, database management and managing ongoing logistics to support the Executive Director. We are seeking an individual who can take ownership and drive significant impact in its development. This position offers a special opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of animals and contribute to the growth and sustainability of our organization.
As the Development Specialist, your responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Manage, maintain and drive analytics in donor database, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records of donor information, interactions, and contributions.
- Generate development reports and analytics to track fundraising progress and donor trends, and create new opportunities to annual giving, major gifts and planned giving.
- Create and execute fundraising appeals, including direct mail, email campaigns, and online giving initiatives.
- Create compelling donor acknowledgments and stewardship communications to express gratitude and cultivate donor relationships.
- Assist in scheduling meetings and managing communication on behalf of the Executive Director with major donors, stakeholders, and community partners.
- Collaborate with the MARL team to assist with development related tasks associated with fundraising events, donor cultivation activities, and stewardship initiatives.
- Provide administrative support for development activities, including maintaining filing systems, preparing materials for meetings, updating materials and managing correspondence.
- Increase engagement from the board of directors, development committee, and other key stakeholders in aspects of major gift fundraising.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as nonprofit management, business administration, communications, or a related discipline.
- Proven track record of success in major gift fundraising, donor relations, and development strategies, with a minimum of five years experience.
- Comprehensive understanding of fundraising principles, techniques, and best practices, including donor cultivation and stewardship.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage and cultivate relationships with major donors, board members, volunteers, and other stakeholders.
- Experience in developing and implementing strategic fundraising plans to achieve organizational goals and objectives.
- Familiarity with fundraising software and CRM systems (MARL uses Donor Perfect), with the ability to effectively utilize technology to support fundraising efforts and donor management.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Knowledge of relevant legal and ethical guidelines related to fundraising and donor solicitation.
- Passion for the mission and values of the organization, with a commitment to advancing its goals and objectives through effective fundraising and development initiatives.
- Excel as a team player on the MARL Team.
- Willing to work evenings and weekends as needed for donor activities and events.
The Michigan Animal Rescue League is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
We actively seek candidates from diverse backgrounds to join our team and support our mission of providing compassionate care to animals in need. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to these protected characteristics.
Resumes can be sent to employment@marl.org.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $60,000/yr.