Associate Director, Donor Database & Development Operations

About the role - Associate Director, Donor Database & Development Operations

The Associate Director, Donor Database & Development Operations plays an integral role in shaping the overall development operations strategy through the management and oversight of donor and membership databases, ensuring data integrity and leveraging insights for the Conservancy’s development efforts. This position collaborates with the Development, Finance, Operations and Communications teams to optimize data-driven strategies that support fundraising, engagement, and conservation initiatives. Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, the Associate Director will innovate data management practices that enhance donor relationships, streamline reporting, and support organizational growth.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Database Management:
  • Oversee CRM systems (currently Raiser’s Edge and Luminate), ensuring accurate donor and membership data entry, maintenance, and record management.
  • Drive the development of processes for tracking, reporting, and analyzing donor and membership data, achieving improvements in data integrity and efficiency.
  • Collaborate with development and finance teams for gift processing, reconciliation, and acknowledgment.
  • Lead trainings for current staff on database tools and when onboarding new team members.
  • Assess and implement new CRM tools and technologies to keep database practices current and efficient.
• Data Strategy & Analysis:
  • Identify emerging data trends in the philanthropic sector and recommend strategies that leverage these trends to enhance donor engagement and campaign effectiveness.
  • Develop dashboards and reports tailored to both leadership and cross-functional teams, offering predictive insights for fundraising initiatives.
• Team Collaboration & Leadership:
  • Oversee one direct report, responsible for database maintenance and donor services (e.g., gift acknowledgments, prospect identification, event attendance, etc.), providing mentorship and guidance to ensure data accuracy and compliance.
  • Provide continuous training opportunities and upskilling for direct reports and the broader team in database and analytics best practices.
  • Establish cross-functional data-sharing protocols with Communications, Finance, and Program teams to enhance collaborative efforts and integrate data systems with broader organizational goals.
  • With the Chief Development Officer, and working in partnership with colleagues in Finance, design and implement financial tracking and forecasting systems within Raiser’s Edge to enhance the budgeting process.
• Operations:
  • Oversee monthly reconciliation of the fundraising database with Finance to ensure accuracy and alignment.
  • Manage the pledge gift reconciliation process, including reminders and invoicing as needed.
  • Maintain accurate donor listings for all communications channels, including online, reports, appeals, and invitations.
  • Ensure that donor data handling meets best practices and regulatory requirements, including privacy laws and internal policies.

What You'll Need

• 7+ years of experience in a nonprofit or mission-driven organization with a focus on donor engagement and philanthropic data management.
• Expertise in CRM systems, specifically experience with Raiser’s Edge.
• Proven ability to analyze and interpret complex data, providing actionable insights for development and fundraising.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work across departments.

Who You Are:

• A Collaborative Leader: You build strong relationships with your team and other departments, ensuring seamless data integration across the organization.
• Data-Driven: You are passionate about using data to inform strategies, measure success, and make improvements.
• Detail-Oriented: Accuracy and precision in data handling are your top priorities, ensuring reliable donor information and compliance.
• Innovative: You thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and are comfortable with leading change.