Overview
Cambridge in America
From its location in New York City, Cambridge in America (CAm) promotes interest in and support for the University of Cambridge (UK) and its constituent Colleges among alumni and friends in the United States and in the Americas.
Cambridge in America runs alumni and development programs aimed at showcasing the best of Cambridge, working in partnership with University and College leadership. A historic institution of higher education in the United Kingdom, Cambridge consistently ranks among the very top research universities worldwide, with more than 20,000 students from all walks of life and all corners of the world, nearly 12,500 staff, 31 Colleges and 150 Departments, Faculties, Schools, and other institutions. Sustaining a university of this caliber demands continual investment, therefore fundraising efforts and innovative partnerships are vital and an essential element of the work of Cambridge in America. During the last five years, more than $289 million has been raised by Cambridge in America.
Manager, Donor Relations and Communications
The Manager, Donor Relations and Communications at CAm is a member of the Strategic Engagement portfolio and reports to the Senior Director, Strategic Engagement. He/she is responsible for overseeing Cambridge in America’s Donor Relations program and providing communications support for other engagement projects. The Manager, Donor Relations and Communications will be responsible for expanding the current program of stewardship into one that creatively and appropriately recognizes and celebrates all donors, with a particular focus on those at the principal gift level.
As a strong writer and editor, the Manager will also provide consultation as well as writing and editing support across CAm for communications projects including but not limited to Board communications; newsletters; the CAm Annual Report; event communications; and annual giving collateral. The Manager will cultivate relationships across CAm and Collegiate Cambridge to ensure smooth processes and a collegial working environment.
Essential functions
The Donor Relations and Communications Manager will work with fundraisers and senior leadership to implement programs that recognize and steward donors to Cambridge in America, including:
- Producing personalized acknowledgment letters and tax receipts in a timely fashion for Board members and the highest-level donors, on behalf of the Executive Director; the CAm Board Chair of Cambridge in America’s Board; and the Vice Chancellor or his designee.
- Overseeing bespoke donor stewardship reports, gifts, communications and events.
- Working with senior leadership and fundraisers to develop and implement a creative donor relations program that engages higher level donors.
- Contributing to the evolution and maintenance of a pledge reminder and acknowledgment system
- Providing writing, editing, and proofreading support across CAm, ensuring that communications adhere to CAm style guidelines
- Performing other responsibilities as needed.
Competencies
- Strong writing and editing skills across different areas of content and different media.
- Ability to exercise independent initiative.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the demonstrated ability to relate well with individuals at every level of the organization and to get things done.
- Ability to interact effectively and work collaboratively in a comprehensive academic institution.
- Tactful exercise of judgment and discretion with sensitive and highly confidential information.
- A can-do attitude and positive approach with a willingness to pitch in occasionally in areas outside of remit
Supervisory responsibilities
- Occasional supervision of temporary help and/or interns
- Management of vendor relationships
Work environment
- Ability to comfortably work in an open area with background noise.
- This is a hybrid position, working three days in the office and two remotely.
Physical demands
- Ability to carry light loads (e.g. boxes of gifts or cards)
Some Travel may be required
Required education and experience
- Excellent writing and editing skills, with at least three years of relevant experience, preferably in development and/or higher education.
- A Bachelor’s degree is required.
- Proficiency with MS Office and other programs.
Additional eligibility requirements
- Proficiency with databases preferred
Other duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
CAm is currently operating on a hybrid schedule of three days working in the office and two days working remotely.
CAm requires that all staff be fully vaccinated. Please note that proof of vaccination will be required.
To apply for the position please send a cover letter and resume. A cover letter is an integral part of the application process and must be submitted with a resume to be considered for the position
CAm is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to complying with all federal, state, and local equal employment opportunity (“EEO”) laws. CAm prohibits discrimination against employees and applicants for employment because of the individual’s race or color, religion or creed, alienage or citizenship status, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, marital status, familial status, domestic partnership status, genetic information or predisposing genetic characteristics, military status, domestic violence victim status, arrest or pre-employment conviction record, or any other characteristic protected by law.