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Development & Donor Engagement Manager

Company
Temple Beth-El
Location
Northbrook, IL
Work type
Part Time · On-site
Posted
2026-08-20

Job description

Position Overview

Temple Beth-El seeks an organized, relationship-focused Development & Donor Engagement Manager to coordinate and implement the congregation's philanthropy and donor engagement efforts. This is a part-time (25 hours per week) position working under the direction of the Executive Director and in partnership with clergy, staff, and volunteer leadership.

Temple Beth-El is a vibrant and growing Reform congregation of approximately 680 households committed to creating meaningful Jewish experiences, fostering lifelong relationships, and building a strong culture of philanthropy. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape and support the congregation's continued growth and impact.

The Development & Donor Engagement Manager will oversee the day-to-day execution of philanthropic campaigns, donor stewardship activities, development events, and communications. This role is ideal for a strong project manager who enjoys building relationships, managing multiple priorities, and helping donors connect their philanthropy to meaningful impact.

Responsibilities

Philanthropy & Campaign Management

Coordinate and implement annual philanthropic initiatives, including Community Commitment, the Capital Campaign, event sponsorships, and legacy/endowment giving opportunities.
Manage campaign timelines, communications, donor tracking, and follow-up activities.
Support major gift, sponsorship, endowment, and legacy giving efforts.

Donor Engagement, Stewardship & Recognition

Maintain and strengthen donor relationships through thoughtful stewardship and recognition.
Coordinate donor acknowledgments, impact reporting, and engagement opportunities.
Manage and promote tribute and recognition programs, including Tree of Life leaves, memorial garden bricks, Oneg Shabbat sponsorships, and other opportunities for congregants to honor loved ones, celebrate milestones, and create meaningful connections to Temple Beth-El.
Support donor cultivation efforts led by clergy, lay leadership, and the Executive Director.

Events & Volunteer Engagement

Coordinate philanthropic and donor engagement events, including Temple Beth-El's major fundraising event and major giver events and other stewardship opportunities.
Support the Development Committee and volunteer-led philanthropy efforts.
Recruit, support, and coordinate volunteers participating in development and donor engagement activities.
Assist in fostering a culture of philanthropy throughout the congregation.

Database & Reporting

Maintain accurate donor records and gift tracking.
Generate reports and analyze philanthropic giving trends.
Manage donor segmentation and communication lists.
Conduct prospect research and help identify opportunities to deepen donor engagement and philanthropic support.
Assist in developing and maintaining donor pipelines, tracking cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship activities.
Track progress toward philanthropy goals and provide regular updates to leadership.

Communications & Collaboration

Partner with the Communications Manager to create development materials and donor-centered communications.
Work closely with clergy, staff, and volunteer leaders to advance Temple Beth-El's philanthropy goals.
Help communicate the impact of philanthropy and strengthen engagement across the congregation.
Partner with staff and lay leaders to identify opportunities that strengthen member engagement and support a culture of generosity throughout the congregation.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree preferred.
Two to five years of experience in development, philanthropy, donor relations, nonprofit management, project management, communications, or a related field.
Strong organizational and project management skills with exceptional attention to detail.
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
Experience with CRM or donor management systems (ShulCloud preferred) and proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
Ability to build strong relationships with donors, volunteers, clergy, and colleagues.
Familiarity with Jewish communal organizations or synagogue life is a plus.

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