Philanthropy Specialist

Tulsa Zoo•Tulsa, OK

About The Position

The Philanthropy Specialist is responsible for driving growth of donated revenue for TZMI by leading the strategy, development, and execution of multiple donor engagement programs. This role is also responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating strategies for success and effectiveness of all development programs and events. This includes identification, cultivation, and solicitation of current donors and prospects with the purpose of securing new, renewed, and increased support. In addition, this role drives strategic improvement and implementation of best practices in the supporting areas of gift processing, data management, and donor relations, utilizing the donor giving software program.

Requirements

Must be 18 years or older, possess a valid driver’s license, and be insurable on TZMI’s insurance carrier
Bachelor’s degree from a college or university and a minimum of three (3) years in a development role or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience
Must be able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, procedure manuals, and respond to sensitive inquiries and complaints. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of TZMI employees, managers, clients, customers, and the general public.
Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, proportions, percentages, algebra, geometry, fractions, ratios, and decimals and apply them to practical situations
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software; expert level experience with Raiser’s Edge or equivalent donor database; Internet Browser(s) - Explorer, Chrome, Safari, etc. Proficiency in personal computer Windows environment
Diplomatic, able to interface with community leaders and Tulsa Zoo Management, Inc. Board members. Ability to influence and engage a wide range of donors and build long-term relationships.

Nice To Haves

Member of Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) a plus

Responsibilities

Daily management and cultivation of potential zoo donors.
Design, implement, and evaluate all components of designated annual giving programs including Art Untamed, ADOPT, ZooPAL, Mission ImPOPsicle, Gallery Show, and VET Partners.
Design, implement, and evaluate additional special engagement fundraising opportunities including tribute giving, community collaboration, and other special needs for TZMI operations.
Solicit and secure cash and vendor partnership needs for the Zoo’s major fundraisers and events.
Develop and manage an ongoing in-kind giving program for goods and services, including prioritization and acceptance decisions.
Collaborate with all zoo departments to determine needs that can be met through in-kind donations.
Manage existing TZMI programs including memorial and commemorative donor signage.
In collaboration with the Philanthropy team, design fundraising strategies to include research, feasibility, creative-fund development programs, and donor recognition and acknowledgement.
Independently identify new prospects for all facets of giving using data and strategic analysis.
Establish and implement best practices for the maintenance of accurate philanthropy and budget records and perform analysis of historical giving data to inform donor cultivation strategy.
Oversee the completion of federal compliance documents including tax statements for annual fund and in-kind based donations to the Zoo.
Manage yearly budget, quarterly review, and revenue projections for designated annual fund efforts including Art Untamed, ADOPT, ZooPAL, Mission ImPOPsicle, Gallery Show, and VET Partners.
Cultivate prospective and current donors through a variety of techniques including one-on-one meetings, special events, direct mailings, donor communication, and follow up.
Lead grant strategy for annual fund designated asks, including research, application, and reporting oversight.
Represent TZMI at internal and external events for donor engagement and strategic relationship management.
Conduct zoo tours for potential and current donors as needed.
In collaboration with the Philanthropy team, develop and execute additional fundraising initiatives throughout fiscal year (outside of existing events/programs).
Effectively communicate and demonstrate interpersonal skills with all levels of employees in a clear and professional manner.
Demonstrate and adhere to TZMI’s workplace values.
Know and follow zoo policies and procedures, including emergency protocols.
Attend meetings and training sessions and contribute to strategic planning discussions.
Other duties as assigned.