Head of Donor Stewardship & Engagement

Grinnell College; Grinnell (IA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Grinnell College is seeking a Director of Donor Relations to design and lead an integrated donor relations and stewardship program. You will develop a multi-year plan to strengthen donor engagement, communicate philanthropy impact, and advance institutional priorities with personalized strategies for major donors.

Reporting to senior DAR leadership, you will lead a collaborative team, build an engaged culture of philanthropy, and express gratitude while expanding donor relationships across

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree is required, preferably in a related field.
• 7–10 years of related professional experience in donor relations, stewardship, advancement, or a closely related field.
• Experience developing and implementing donor engagement and stewardship programs, including personalized strategies, impact reporting, and donor recognition.
• Experience supervising staff and managing complex projects with senior leaders across an organization.
• Strong planning, project management, and organizational skills with attention to deadlines.
• Excellent writing, editing, and interpersonal communication skills; ability to translate financial information into donor communications.
• Ability to build relationships with donors, colleagues, and volunteers; uphold donor intent and guidelines.
• Proficiency with office apps, reporting tools, and donor databases; use data to improve programs.

Responsibilities

• Oversee donor relations and stewardship to strengthen retention and long-term investment.
• Develop and manage strategic donor plans including gift stewardship and impact reporting.
• Collaborate with gift officers and leadership to deliver gratitude and impact communications.
• Coordinate with donor groups and societies for specialized communications and events.
• Oversee Fund Reporting and donor recognition programs, ensuring accuracy and timely communications.
• Partner with campus units to establish consistent donor relations practices across the college.
• Manage staffing, workflow, and professional development for the donor relations team.
• Participate in campus events and committees as needed.

Skills

Donor relations

Stewardship programs

Strategic planning

Project management

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Discretion

Relationship building

Data reporting

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Donor database systems

Job description

Grinnell College is seeking a Director of Donor Relations to design and lead an integrated donor relations and stewardship program. You will develop a multi-year plan to strengthen donor engagement, communicate philanthropy impact, and advance institutional priorities with personalized strategies for major donors.

Reporting to senior DAR leadership, you will lead a collaborative team, build an engaged culture of philanthropy, and express gratitude while expanding donor relationships across