Philanthropy Manager

Variety the Children's Charity of St. Louis • St Louis, MO

10d • Onsite

About The Position

Are you energized by building meaningful relationships and inspired by the power of philanthropy to change lives? Do you thrive in a collaborative, mission-driven environment where creativity, initiative, and genuine connection are valued? Are you excited by the opportunity to introduce new supporters to a cause that is redefining what’s possible for children in our community? If so, Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis (Variety) invites you to bring your talents to our team as a Philanthropy Manager. In this pivotal role, you will help strengthen and grow the relationships that fuel Variety’s impact by connecting passionate donors, partners, and community leaders to a mission that truly matters. Working closely with the Director of Development and a dedicated development team, the Philanthropy Manager plays a key role in advancing our fundraising efforts, elevating the donor experience, and ensuring our supporters feel inspired, valued, and engaged every step of the way. Variety is a catalyst for transformative change in the lives of local children with disabilities, providing access to critical medical equipment, therapies, and innovative recreation and performing arts programs. Every relationship you cultivate helps us reimagine children’s abilities and expand what’s possible for their futures. If you are passionate about making the impossible possible and helping shape a world where children’s potential knows no bounds, we invite you to apply.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required.
• Minimum three years of experience in major gift fundraising; CFRE preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of fundraising principles and best practices, with familiarity in the St. Louis philanthropic community; knowledge of planned giving vehicles and strategies a plus.
• Proficiency in donor databases, preferably Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge.
• Exceptional relationship-builder with strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Self-motivated, goal-oriented professional with strong organizational skills and attention to detail; able to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Genuine passion for Variety’s mission and a commitment to advancing its impact.

Responsibilities

• Manage and grow a portfolio of approximately 125 major gift donors and prospects, developing and executing individualized strategies to achieve annual revenue goals.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward individual, foundation, and corporate donors, strengthening engagement through thoughtful relationship management.
• Support planned giving efforts through proactive donor conversations and collaboration with professional advisors.
• Work in close collaboration with the Director of Development to advance major gift strategy and overall fundraising priorities.
• Directly supervise and develop one development team member, setting goals, monitoring performance, and supporting professional growth.
• Collaborate with development team members, board members, and volunteers to execute donor strategies, campaigns, events, and engagement efforts.
• Participate in special projects, campaigns, and fundraising initiatives as needed to support organizational goals.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager