Donor Relations Manager

Victoria Conservatory of Music; Victoria; Hybrid; CAD 68,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for a proactive fundraiser to join their team. This role involves engaging with donors, creating strategic opportunities, and leading fundraising initiatives to support a mission that resonates across generations. With a focus on collaboration and community impact, you'll play a vital role in making music accessible for all. Your exceptional communication skills and strategic thinking will help foster strong relationships and drive fundraising success. If you're passionate about arts and culture and ready to make a meaningful impact, this position is perfect for you.

Benefits

Professional Development Funds

Bonus-Paid Vacation Week

Extended Health Coverage

Dental Health Spending Account

Personal Wellness Days

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years of fundraising experience with proven success.
• Strong networking and interpersonal skills to engage donors effectively.
• Proficiency in donor CRMs and digital communication tools.

Responsibilities

• Engage with donors and assist in making gifts to the Conservatory.
• Lead fundraising initiatives and coordinate donor communications.
• Develop and oversee stewardship programs for donor engagement.

Skills

Fundraising Experience

Strategic Thinking

Organizational Skills

Communication Skills

Project Management

Networking Skills

Writing Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Education

CFRE Certification

Tools

Donor CRMs

Office 365

Digital Communication Platforms

Job description

Hours: Full time | Generally 37.5 hours per week (approximately 7.5 hours/day).

Compensation: $68,000-$75,000 based on experience.

Professional development funds and resources.

Competitive benefits include a bonus-paid vacation week during winter break, extended health coverage, Dental Health Spending Account, and Personal Wellness Days.

Application Deadline: May 26, 2025, at 4:00 pm or until the position is filled. Resumes will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early application is encouraged.

Start Date: June 23, 2025, or as mutually agreed.

To Apply: Please email a cover letter and resume to:

Joan Milley, Chief Development Officer

milley[at]vcm.bc.ca

Overview

We’re seeking a proactive, relationship-driven fundraiser who excels in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. The ideal candidate brings strategic thinking, strong organizational skills, and a passion for delivering exceptional donor experiences across all channels—including social media, direct response, events, and more. With excellent communication skills and a goal-oriented mindset, you will help grow an integrated fundraising program that strengthens community ties and creates meaningful impact. Join a vibrant organization committed to making music accessible for everyone—from early childhood to seniors, through inclusive outreach, top-tier music therapy, and diverse performances. Your efforts will support a mission that resonates across generations.

Key Responsibilities

Donor Engagement, Solicitation, Stewardship, and Recognition

• Engage with and assist donors making general, designated, or restricted gifts to the Conservatory (including proposals, discussion papers, gift agreements, etc.).
• Create and implement strategic engagement opportunities for mid-level donors ($500-$9,999), such as visits, concert invitations, and special events.
• Develop and oversee a comprehensive stewardship and recognition program through personalized communication, thank-you calls, and impact reports.
• Assist with and participate in fundraising events for the Conservatory.
• Host donor engagement and stewardship events.

Donor Communications

• Lead the semi-annual direct mail appeal, Giving Tuesday campaigns, and other fundraising initiatives, including content creation, project management, and results analysis.
• Coordinate with Marketing to review, source, and generate content for donor communications—print, electronic newsletters, social media, mailings, and website updates.
• Regularly assess the effectiveness of communication and fundraising strategies to inform future planning.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Minimum of five years of fundraising experience.
• Proven success in achieving revenue targets and managing all stages of the donor lifecycle.
• Excellent planning, organizational, and independent work skills, with the ability to collaborate with staff, board members, volunteers, donors, and the public.
• Strong networking, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Effective project management skills, with the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines.
• Superior writing skills for appeals, donor correspondence, proposals, and website content.
• Proficiency with donor CRMs, Office 365, and digital communication platforms including social media and email tools.
• Understanding of reconciliation, equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility principles.
• CFRE certification or in-progress status is an asset.
• Experience in arts, culture, or education sectors is an asset.

Other Requirements

• Must work onsite at our downtown location (900 Johnson St) with potential for hybrid work after three months, subject to mutual agreement.
• Willingness to travel occasionally and work evenings and weekends as needed.