Job Summary
Note: To be considered for this position, candidates must include a cover letter specifying their interest in and qualifications for this position. The cover letter should be the first page of your resume and uploaded as one document.
It is the mission of the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance to create an environment of educational and artistic excellence by nurturing creativity, academic integrity, and professionalism in its faculty and students. As a comprehensive performing arts school set in one of the world's finest public institutions of higher education, the School is deeply engaged in the creation, practice, scholarship, and pedagogy of music, theatre, and dance.
- We aim to provide leadership, nationally and internationally, in all three fields.
- We assert and celebrate the value of the arts to the mission of the University of Michigan.
- We serve the community, the region, and the State of Michigan through public performances, cultural resources, arts education, and outreach programs.
The School's mission is predicated on the belief that the study and practice of the performing arts depend upon a diverse community of learning in which a spirit of social responsibility and principled entrepreneurship is fostered.
The Development Generalist under the direction of the Assistant Director of Development, Stewardship, supports the stewardship program within SMTD's Office of Advancement. The role collaborates with the Assistant Director and Major Gift Officers to facilitate donor acknowledgement through visits, communications, and recognition activities, while providing essential support for donor relations, stewardship initiatives, and administrative operations that advance SMTD's mission.
Responsibilities*
50% Administrative Support
- Process development team invoices and track via project management software
- Place M-Marketplace orders and provide other general office support as needed
- Take notes at meetings when directed and distribute follow-up minutes in a timely manner
- Process gifts on a weekly basis working closely with the Assistant Director of Development, Stewardship and University Gift & Records Administration to track and document them accurately
- Manage the receipt of gifts-in-kind, including appraisals and other necessary documentation
- Generate gift and constituent reports as needed
- Generate mailing lists with Development Services and Strategic Solutions as needed for email and print communications
- Provide support for strategic planning initiatives during the campaign, including the development and utilization of personalized prospect lists and tracking reports in DART to support gift officers
- Assist with the development and implementation of mail, Michigan Telefund, and other marketing pieces for annual solicitations
- Respond to inquiries from within the department, from the campus community, and external constituencies; direct matters to appropriate individuals for action and follow up as needed
50% Stewardship & Event Support
- Under the direction of the Assistant Director of Development, Stewardship, assist with maintaining and improving a consistent stewardship, gift processing, and acknowledgment process. This includes but is not limited to:
- Prepare individualized acknowledgment letters, tribute notifications, and notes regarding gifts of $10K+ for the dean's acknowledgments
- Prepare donor acknowledgement lists for performance programs
- Update DART records including constituent records, donor fund descriptions, and interactions
- Provide support for annual endowment and scholarship reports, including printing, assembling, and mailing
- Assist with donor briefing and hosting needs of CAO and gift officers
- Provide administrative support for annual stewardship events: Collage Concert Reception and Scholarship Showcase
- Provide administrative support for annual donor events and other special events as needed (for example: retirement celebrations, unique donor events, and building dedications)
Required Qualifications*
- A bachelor's degree or equivalent is required
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal skills
- Experience with Google Drive and Microsoft Office Suite; successful applicant will be expected to learn DART development database and Business Objects software
- Ability to effectively communicate and operate in a customer service environment
- Ability to work independently and as a team member to set priorities and handle multiple assignments and deadlines
- A team player with keen attention to detail, a high level of discretion when dealing with highly sensitive information, and a focus on customer service are essential
- Experience working effectively with different communities and cultures; experience working directly with faculty, staff and students.
- Ability to work nights and weekends as needed for scheduled events
- This position involves traveling to various locations across campus to deliver materials
- This position routinely moves materials weighing up to 30 pounds across campus for various needs
Desired Qualifications*
- At least one year of office experience, preferably in a development or fundraising environment
- Knowledge of database systems
- Interest in the performing arts
Modes of Work
This role is hybrid and will require a minimum of three days in the office and event attendance on some nights and weekends.
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Additional Information
Candidates for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Background Screening
A pre-employment background check must be conducted before a candidate may receive a firm offer of employment to a staff position at the University of Michigan.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.