Specialist, Donor & Government Relations

Toronto Blue Jays; Toronto; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent Canadian sports organization is seeking a Donor & Government Relations Specialist to enhance fundraising efforts through strong donor relationships and government engagement. Key responsibilities include developing compelling proposals, managing grant applications, and maintaining a robust funding pipeline. The ideal candidate has over 2 years of experience in fundraising, exceptional communication skills, and a passion for philanthropy and baseball. Join a dedicated team focused on making a positive impact across Canada.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

Discretionary bonus opportunities

Vacation entitlements

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in fundraising, grant writing, or donor relations.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong relationship management skills with high-level stakeholders.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and multiple deadlines.
• Proficiency in Salesforce or similar donor CRM systems.
• High attention to detail and a commitment to equity and inclusion.

Responsibilities

• Manage mid-level donor relationships and develop proposals.
• Cultivate relationships with government contacts and assist with funding applications.
• Lead proactive identification of funding opportunities.
• Oversee grant submission processes and maintain funding pipeline.
• Track relevant legislation and provide internal briefings.

Skills

Fundraising

Grant writing

Relationship management

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Tools

Salesforce

Job description

Specialist, Donor & Government Relations
Reports to: Senior Manager, Donor & Government Relations

Overview

The Donor & Government Relations Specialist plays a vital role in advancing Jays Care Foundation’s fundraising and stewardship efforts by managing mid‑level donor relationships, supporting government engagement, and driving the development of high‑quality proposals, reports, and impact communications. This role blends relationship management, strategic writing, and project coordination to strengthen donor experiences, secure new funding opportunities, and ensure exceptional stewardship across individual, foundation, and government partners. Working collaboratively with teams across the organization, the Specialist maintains a robust funding pipeline, leads key communication initiatives, and contributes to a dynamic, mission‑driven philanthropy team committed to creating meaningful impact for children and communities across Canada.

Key Responsibilities

Donor Relations

• Serve as a relationship manager for Jays Care’s donors, responsible for cultivating mid‑level partnerships and identifying new prospects that align with Jays Care’s priorities.
• Develop customized proposals, reports, presentations, and stewardship materials that communicate the impact of investment, align with funder interests, and inspire continued support.
• Lead cross‑functional collaboration with programs, finance, and evaluation teams to develop compelling cases for support and ensure strong impact reporting.
• Guide the development and fulfillment of gift agreements, recognition strategies, and donor journeys for individual and foundation supporters.
• Source and curate program impact stories and data to strengthen philanthropic storytelling and deepen funder connection.
• Lead the writing of donor newsletters and quarterly communications.
• Support with the execution of special events.

Government Relations

• Cultivate and support relationships with federal, provincial, and municipal government contacts; identify new funding opportunities aligned with public‑sector priorities and Jays Care’s mission.
• Assist with the submission of high‑quality funding applications and ensure timely delivery of impact reports and compliance requirements.
• Track relevant legislation, government priorities, and funding streams; provide internal briefings and strategic insights to inform engagement strategies.
• Prepare briefings, Q&A, and speaking points for government meetings and events involving leadership or elected officials.
• Represent Jays Care at key meetings and events with government stakeholders and associations.

Pipeline Development & Grant Management

• Lead the proactive identification, research, and development of individual, foundation and government funding opportunities.
• Oversee the grant submission process for mid‑level gifts including narrative development, budgeting, timelines, and internal approvals.
• Maintain a robust funding pipeline through Salesforce and other tracking tools to monitor submissions, renewals, deadlines, and reporting obligations.
• Develop and manage systems for donor segmentation, forecasting, and performance analytics to inform strategy.
• Other duties as required.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in fundraising, grant writing, or donor relations, with a proven track record of securing and stewarding philanthropic gifts.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated success developing compelling proposals, reports, and donor communications.
• Strong relationship management skills, including experience engaging with high‑level stakeholders across sectors.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects, cross‑functional collaboration, and multiple deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proficiency in Salesforce or similar donor CRM systems, with strong analytical skills and pipeline management experience.
• High attention to detail, sound judgment, and a commitment to equity and inclusion.
• Experience in the nonprofit, education, youth development, or sport‑for‑development sectors is a strong asset.

• Team Player. Rolls up their sleeves to contribute to team success.

• Passion for philanthropy and a strong connection to Jays Care’s mission.
• Knowledge of baseball and passion for the Toronto Blue Jays.

Position Status: Vacancy

Salary:
Theanticipated base compensation range for this role is $50,000–$55,000. Actual base pay offered within this range may differ based on a range of factors, including individual experience, education, skills, and organizational needs. In addition to your base compensation, you will enjoy discretionary bonus opportunities, vacation entitlements, a comprehensive benefits package, and front‑officeperksthat reflect the excitement and community of working in baseball.

Why Join Us?

At Jays Care, you’ll be part of a passionate team committed to growing the game of baseball across Canada while helping kids develop life skills that last a lifetime. You’ll have the opportunity to make a lasting impact in communities nationwide while working for an award‑winning organization that values innovation, inclusion, and collaboration.