Development Generalist

JOB DESCRIPTION

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Summary/Objective

The Development Generalist is a dynamic and mission-driven professional who supports the Archdiocese of Detroit and Sacred Heart Major Seminary in several areas across the Mission Advancement office. This role is integral to advancing our mission through donor services stewardship prospect research and event coordination. The ideal candidate thrives in a collaborative environment demonstrates exceptional attention to detail and is passionate about the Churchs mission. Priorities will shift throughout the year to align with key fundraising cycles including the Catholic Services Appeal year-end giving and major events. This is an onsite position based in Detroit with occasional travel to parishes schools and event locations.

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Essential Functions

Accurately process and record donations pledges and event registrations in the donor database.

Respond to donor inquiries via phone and email providing exceptional customer service.

Continuously evaluate and refine data entry processes to enhance efficiency and donor satisfaction identifying improvements through hands-on experience and evolving needs.

Oversee timely creation and distribution of donation receipts acknowledgments and stewardship materials.

Assist in implementing stewardship plans to recognize and retain donors.

Support donor recognition and engagement opportunities to strengthen relationships.

Conduct research on individuals foundations and corporations to identify potential donors.

Prepare donor profiles and briefing materials for leadership and gift officers.

Maintain accurate and up-to-date donor records; ensure data integrity and compliance with privacy regulations.

Assist in coordinating development events including logistics registration guest lists and follow-up.

Provide on-site event support as needed.

Partner with colleagues across Advancement to support appeals fundraising initiatives and special projects.

Perform other duties as assigned to advance the mission of the Archdiocese and Seminary.

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Key Competencies

Mission Alignment: Demonstrates commitment to the Catholic Churchs mission and values.

Attention to Detail & Confidentiality: Ensures accuracy in data and communications while handling sensitive information with discretion.

Technical & Analytical Skills: Proficient in donor databases and software; uses data to inform decisions and improve processes.

Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Exhibits excellent verbal and written communication; builds trust and collaborates effectively with donors colleagues and stakeholders.

Customer Service & Problem-Solving: Provides exceptional service and resolves issues promptly maintaining a donor-first mindset.

Planning Organization & Adaptability: Prioritizes workload manages multiple projects and thrives in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities.

Event Coordination: Organizes and supports events with professionalism and hospitality.

Teamwork & Independence: Works well both independently and as part of a team to accomplish diverse projects.

Required Education and Experience

Minimum of associates degree in business or equivalent combination of education and experience.

23 years of experience in development fundraising or related role preferred.

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Work Environment

Onsite position in Detroit with occasional travel to parishes schools and event locations.

Some evenings and weekends required for events.

Supervisory responsibilities

n/a

Physical demands

Position requires the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work. May involve some lifting carrying pushing/or pulling of objects and materials (5-50 pounds). May involve extended periods of time standing or sitting at a keyboard or workstation. May involve repetitive motion (i.e. typing). May involve walking long distances. May require long periods of time speaking.

Required education and experience

Minimum of Associates degree in business with at least four years of work experience in finance/bookkeeping or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Excellent computer skills and experience with advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel.

Proven success in working in a hybrid environment (on-site plus telecommuting)

Affirmative Action/EEO statement

The Archdiocese of Detroit is an equal opportunity employer and does not illegally discriminate based on race color religion national origin sex age disability height weight genetic information or marital or other legally protected status. The Archdiocese of Detroit is committed to achieving excellence through cultural diversity and encourages applications and/or nominations of women persons of color veterans and persons with disabilities.