Development Specialist bei Hennepin Arts

Position Summary

The Development Specialist plays a dual role, providing essential support to both the development leadership and the development team. This position is responsible for high-level administrative assistance to the SVP Development and Partnerships and AVP Development and Partnerships, coordination of development activities, and creation of compelling presentations, proposals, and sales materials to engage donors, sponsors, and partners. The ideal candidate will be a proactive, detail-oriented professional who can seamlessly balance executive support with development-related tasks in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

Development Support

• Assist with donor and sponsor prospect research, cultivation, and stewardship activities
• Maintain donor records in the CRM database, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality
• Support fundraising campaigns, special events, and donor engagement programs
• Prepare gift acknowledgment letters, donor reports, and sponsorship materials
• Track and report on development activities, deadlines, and revenue goals

Presentations, Proposals, and Sales Pitches

• Create visually compelling and persuasive presentation decks for donor and sponsor meetings
• Draft and format written proposals, one-pagers, and sponsorship packages
• Collaborate with marketing and communications teams to ensure branding consistency
• Research and integrate relevant data, case studies, and impact stories into materials
• Assist in preparing talking points, scripts, and briefing materials for high-stakes meetings

Administrative Support

• Coordinate meetings, prepare agendas, and record/distribute meeting notes
• Handle confidential correspondence, reports, and sensitive information with discretion
• Serve as the first point of contact for the development office, ensuring professional and timely communication with internal and external stakeholders
• Track deadlines, action items, and priorities for the SVP of Development and Partnerships

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience with a minimum of three (3) years of related experience
• Demonstrated experience with annual funds and major gifts along with a successful track record managing an effective team focused on donor cultivation
•  Excellent communication skills both written, verbal, and interpersonal and customer service
•  Experience in CRM platforms like Salesforce
•  Demonstrated strong organizational, project management, and time management skills
•  Experience using ticketing platforms such as Ticketmaster and Archtics
•  Familiarity with mass email platforms
•  Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite programs

Physical Requirements

• Due to the nature of our work, employees may be required to work some non-traditional business hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Ability to lift up to twenty-five (25) pounds
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time while navigating multiple levels and areas within a venue
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the assigned and essential functions