Development Engagement Manager bei Hennepin Arts

The Development Engagement Manager is responsible for designing and delivering exceptional experiences for donors and corporate partners that strengthen relationships, increase loyalty, and grow philanthropic support. This position leads the planning and execution of donor and VIP lounge operations during performances, as well as a portfolio of cultivation, stewardship, and fundraising events—ranging from intimate gatherings to large-scale galas.

The ideal candidate combines strong event management skills and superior communication skills with a passion for hospitality, donor relations, and the performing arts. The role requires a hands-on, service-oriented professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and can balance creativity with operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Donor & VIP Lounge Experience

• Oversee daily operations of donor and VIP lounges, ensuring a premium, welcoming environment that reflects Hennepin Arts’ brand and hospitality standards
• Manage lounge setup, staffing coordination, and inventory for food, beverages, and amenities
• Train and supervise event staff, volunteers, and concierge teams on delivering exceptional service to high-level donors and VIP guests
• Develop and maintain lounge protocols, guest lists, and RSVP systems to ensure smooth operations and accurate reporting
• Serve as primary point of contact for donor and VIP lounge guests during performances and special events

Event Planning & Execution

• Plan, coordinate, and execute a range of development cultivation and fundraising events, including but not limited to:
  • Opening night receptions and cast parties
  • Mid-year cultivation events for key donor segments
  • Major annual fundraising events or galas
  • Behind-the-scenes experiences and artist meet-and-greets
• Work collaboratively with marketing and programming teams to design event experiences aligned with organizational goals.
• Manage event budgets, timelines, and vendor relationships, ensuring events are executed on time, on brand, and within budget
• Lead as the point person for development events, serving as the main point of contact for both internal and external stakeholders. This includes overseeing invitation design, guest communications, registration processes, and post-event follow-up, amongst other duties
• Ensure any related partnership needs are met and executed to the highest standard

Donor Relations & Stewardship

• Partner with development officers and leadership to identify opportunities for events to support cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies
• Develop personalized touchpoints for high-value donors through event experiences
• Track and report donor interactions, attendance, and engagement metrics in the CRM database
• Support creative stewardship initiatives that enhance donor satisfaction and retention

Collaboration & Internal Partnerships

• Work closely with theatre operations, production, and front-of-house teams to coordinate event logistics in performance spaces
• Collaborate with marketing to ensure consistent messaging, branding, and promotion of donor events
• Liaise with corporate partners, caterers, and other vendors to create high-quality experiences for donors and guests

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in nonprofit management, communications, or a related field
• 3-5 years of experience in donor relations, development, or fundraising, preferably in the arts or nonprofit sector
• Or a combination of education and relevant experience equivalent to 7+ years in the above areas 
• Proven success in managing donor portfolios and securing individual gifts
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build meaningful relationships with donors
• Experience planning and executing donor-centric events, VIP experiences, and other engagement opportunities
• Proficiency with donor management software and Microsoft Office Suite
• Knowledge of fundraising best practices and principles
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work in a fast-paced environment

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