Advancement Services Manager, Donor and Member Services

Penn State University • University Park, IL

1d

About The Position

Penn State is currently seeking a Advancement Services Manager in supporting Donor and Member Services. As a member of the Division of Development and Alumni Relations, you can play an integral role in Penn State’s future and contribute to one of the most successful fundraising and alumni relations operations in the country. Reporting to the Executive Director of Donor & Member Services and working closely with Donor and Member Services, as well as other partners, this Advancement Services Manager will: Oversee the evaluation, development, and implementation of business processes, policies, procedures, and systems supporting donor/member data and all gift and membership processing. Articulate Penn State’s needs, ambitions, and values through excellent informal and formal communications; Direct, develop, and coordinate daily accounting for University gifts and alumni membership revenue, ensuring accurate handling, transferring, reconciliation, and documentation of funds. Ensure compliance with University policies, government regulations, and industry standards; maintain internal controls that safeguard University assets and support accurate donor intent fulfillment. Ensure fiduciary responsibility and adherence to state, federal, and institutional requirements. Lead operational and system wide data updates, including biographical loads, gift/membership transaction updates, and system enhancements. Provide data governance oversight, including staff training, development of data quality standards, and creation of processes that promote data accuracy and confidentiality. Support the University’s gift recording and stewardship initiatives and foster strong internal and external relationships. Utilize strategic and operational problem solving to ensure timely resolution of customer issues involving donors, departments, or vendors. Participate in strategic planning, goal setting, operational evaluation, and continuous improvement efforts for the Donor and Member Services team. Manage, coach, and mentor assigned staff; guide performance evaluations, hiring, professional development, and daily workflow oversight. This role is part of the Donor and Member Services team within Development & Alumni Relations and requires strong collaboration with internal departments, external vendors, donors, and University partners. Work may involve occasional extended hours during peak periods or system transitions. DDAR is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Requirements

• At least 3 years of supervisory experience, with a proven track record of leading teams and managing direct reports.
• Demonstrated experience in accounting, auditing, database management, operations, or related advancement services functions.
• Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills.
• The ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues.
• Strong skills in project management, process improvement, customer service, and data accuracy.
• A proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team.
• A commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored.
• Bachelor's Degree
• 8+ years of relevant experience, includes 3+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

Nice To Haves

• Experience in higher education advancement/development services.
• Background in philanthropy‑related accounting, donor databases, or CRM system administration.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the evaluation, development, and implementation of business processes, policies, procedures, and systems supporting donor/member data and all gift and membership processing.
• Articulate Penn State’s needs, ambitions, and values through excellent informal and formal communications
• Direct, develop, and coordinate daily accounting for University gifts and alumni membership revenue, ensuring accurate handling, transferring, reconciliation, and documentation of funds.
• Ensure compliance with University policies, government regulations, and industry standards; maintain internal controls that safeguard University assets and support accurate donor intent fulfillment.
• Ensure fiduciary responsibility and adherence to state, federal, and institutional requirements.
• Lead operational and system wide data updates, including biographical loads, gift/membership transaction updates, and system enhancements.
• Provide data governance oversight, including staff training, development of data quality standards, and creation of processes that promote data accuracy and confidentiality.
• Support the University’s gift recording and stewardship initiatives and foster strong internal and external relationships.
• Utilize strategic and operational problem solving to ensure timely resolution of customer issues involving donors, departments, or vendors.
• Participate in strategic planning, goal setting, operational evaluation, and continuous improvement efforts for the Donor and Member Services team.
• Manage, coach, and mentor assigned staff; guide performance evaluations, hiring, professional development, and daily workflow oversight.

Benefits

• Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
• In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.
• One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees