Donor Engagement Manager

Position Summary

The Donor Engagement Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and evaluating donor-focused events that deepen engagement and strengthen relationships with supporters of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. This role ensures a high-quality patron experience that reflects the prestige and artistic excellence of the organization.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and manage a comprehensive calendar of donor stewardship events (e.g., receptions, musical feasts, Governing Member signature events, guest artist dinners, donor breakfasts).
• Carefully coordinate logistics for in-person and virtual events, maintained through event management tool, Momentus.
• Manage event communications, invitations, RSVP's, reminders, and guest follow-up.
• Design meaningful experiences that recognize and engage donors at all giving levels.
• Partner with Advancement staff to support cultivation and retention strategies for Governing Members, institutional and corporate partners.
• Create event timelines, budgets, and run-of-show documents.
• Manage vendors, contracts, and event-related expenses.
• Cross-departmentally collaborate with Advancement, Communications, Artistic, Stage Crew teams to ensure cohesive project management.
• Coordinate with musicians and guest artists when applicable.
• Act as staff liaison at DSO events and the Donor Lounge approximately 2 times per month.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• 3-5 years of experience in event planning, preferably in nonprofit or performing arts organizations
• Confidence in dealing with senior-level executives, volunteers, and donors in-person and via phone, email, and mail
• Experience acting with integrity, diplomacy, tact, and maintaining confidentiality
• Ability to act independently, take initiative, and meet changing priorities
• Experience identifying, evaluating, investigating, and offering alternative solutions to problems
• Successful experience working in, and contributing to, a collaborative, team environment
• Strong computer skills, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

Desired Qualifications

• Experience working with donor relations or fundraising teams
• Experience with CRM systems (i.e. Tessitura)