Manager, Development

Smile Train is the world’s leading cleft-focused organization. Our goal is to transform the lives of every person impacted by a cleft lip or palate. We train and support doctors and medical professionals to provide our patients with free, life-changing, comprehensive cleft treatment. Our sustainable model has allowed us to reach more than 2 million children in 90+ countries in the past 25 years.

About the role

The Manager, Development plays a critical donor-facing role on Smile Train’s Mid-Level Development team, responsible for strengthening donor relationships and driving sustained philanthropic support. This position supports and executes strategies for the mid-level donor audience ($2,500 – $24,999) and prospects ($1,000 – $2,499) capable of making four and five-figure gifts, with a focus on retention, growth, and pipeline development. The Manager will contribute to the success and continuous improvement of the Mid-Level Program by proactively engaging donors through strategic outreach and personalized stewardship.

This role collaborates closely with colleagues across Development and supports donor movement toward major and planned giving, ensuring a strong pipeline and building foundation for our ambitious fundraising 5-year strategic plan. This is a full-time, hybrid position based in New York City, requiring two office days per week.

Responsibilities

• Refine strategy and perform execution of the mid-level program’s cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship efforts in partnership with Senior Director, Development.
• Collaborate with the Manager, Development (Program) to support donor-centric, data-informed strategies that move donors through the fundraising pipeline and drive revenue from key segments.
• Work closely with Manager, Stewardship to plan timing and execute delivery of stewardship messages to all mid-level program donors.
• Actively manage donor relationships through personalized (and one-to-few) outreach, including calls, handwritten notes, meetings, and tailored email communications. Carry out fundamental stewardship of donors who give multiple gifts throughout the year.
• Support the department’s fundraising strategies by analyzing data and aiding in segmentation of donors. Conduct donor research using platforms such as iWave, Google, LinkedIn, and Salesforce and layer onto existing donor reports.
• Serve as a primary contact for incoming inquiries from mid-level donors.
• Contribute to and support mid-level campaigns, appeals, and stewardship initiatives in coordination with the broader Development team.
• Maintain accurate, timely records of donor interactions, moves management, and pipeline activity in the CRM (Salesforce), ensuring strong data quality and reporting.
• Contribute to the overall success of Smile Train by performing other essential duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in philanthropy, marketing, communications, nonprofit management, or a related field—or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in fundraising or nonprofit development, ideally within annual fund, membership, or mid-level portfolio management.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling donor narratives and impact-driven messaging.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite with strong organizational and time management skills.
• Robust experience with donor CRM systems, preferably Salesforce or Raiser’s Edge, including data analysis and donor segmentation.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to manage sensitive donor relationships and collaborate effectively across teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated success managing a donor portfolio and meeting revenue goals.
• Self-starter with a strategic mindset and the ability to work independently while contributing to team initiatives.
• Detail-oriented and analytical, with a commitment to continuous improvement and data-informed decision-making.
• Collaborative team player with a positive attitude, curiosity, and sense of humor.
• Experience working in a healthcare, international development, or global NGO setting is a plus.
• Working knowledge of Asana.

Accountability Expectations

• Ownership of Outcomes: Take full responsibility for one’s own performance, ensuring alignment with Smile Train’s mission and objectives.
• Transparent Communication: Communicate openly and effectively with team members, fostering trust and a shared understanding of expectations and priorities.
• Emotional Intelligence: Demonstrate empathy, understanding, and cultural sensitivity to contribute to an inclusive and supportive team environment.
• Empowerment: Effectively communicate with supervisors to ensure you are equipped with the resources, guidance, and autonomy you need to excel in your role.
• Team Cohesion: Contribute to a culture of collaboration, mutual respect, and shared accountability, helping the team to thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Benefits

• Meaningful Work: Be part of work that creates meaningful, lasting impact—changing the world one smile at a time.
• Health Coverage: Prioritize the health of you and your family with top-tier, comprehensive health, pharmacy, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement Plan: Build toward your long-term goals with our 401(k) retirement plan and generous employer match.
• Paid Time Off: Enjoy a generous PTO package, paid holidays, and sick time so you can rest, recharge, and return feeling your best.
• Family Support: Paid parental leave and family care benefits, giving you time and flexibility for the people who matter most.
• Mental Health: Free access to professional mental health counseling.
• Professional Development: Take advantage of an annual professional development stipend and opportunities to expand your skills and continue learning.
• Hybrid Work: Balance collaboration and flexibility with our hybrid work model, based out of our conveniently located Midtown Manhattan office.
• Travel Opportunities: See our impact firsthand while partnering with global colleagues and programs through opportunities for domestic and international travel (10-15% travel expected).

Pay

$70,000 - $75,000 USD/Year