Job Description
Development Manager
Washington Hebrew Congregation (WHC) | Reports to: Director of Development
Full-time, Hybrid (3 days in office) | Occasional evenings/weekends as required
Organizational Profile
Washington Hebrew Congregation (WHC) is among the largest Reform synagogues in the nation. We serve a vibrant Jewish community in Washington, DC. WHC emphasizes meaningful worship, lifelong learning, and an inclusive culture. As we approach our 175th anniversary, WHC is investing in the future of our congregation and community for generations to come.
Position Summary
WHC conducts robust and organized efforts around annual giving. The Congregation also contemplates a comprehensive capital campaign, beginning in the coming year. This position will oversee the logistics and operations of all development efforts.
We are looking for a collaborative, donor-focused professional. This role will support fundraising and donor engagement and work across the full donor lifecycle, as well as focus on development operations. Working closely with the Director of Development, Executive Director, clergy, Development Committee, other lay leadership, and other colleagues, this role ensures that donor touchpoints are warm and timely, and that development systems run smoothly.
Key Responsibilities
Data and Development Operations (50%)
- Maintain files and database of donors, gifts, pledges, restrictions, etc.
- Assist with timely gift processing and receipting, maintaining standards during busy periods.
- Prepare and manage the donor gift acknowledgement process for all gifts, including annual, multi-year commitments, and capital campaign.
- Support donor engagement efforts, including research, coordinating outreach meetings, and tracking follow ups through Salesforce.
- Generate reports, dashboards, and lists; ensure data integrity and basic process improvements.
Donor Communications and Stewardship (30%)
- Coordinate special acknowledgments with clergy and leadership.
- Collaborate with Communications Team to draft and manage segmented email communication strategy that drives broad member participation.
- Create donor-facing communications that link generosity to tangible programs and outcomes.
- Design stewardship plans to strengthen donor relationships and encourage continued support.
- Assist in developing new philanthropic opportunities, including planned giving and special events.
Administrative and General Support (20%)
- Act as the first point of contact for development inquiries.
- Support staff and volunteers with meeting materials and cross-team coordination.
- Coordinate with clergy assistants to set up donor meetings. Manage logistics and follow up for a smooth donor experience.
- Support campaign operations, including gift agreements, pledge schedules, reports, and donor recognition tracking.
- Other duties as assigned.
The successful candidate will:
- Have 3–5+ years of experience in nonprofit development, donor engagement, or development operations. Synagogue/Jewish nonprofit experience is a plus.
- Be a sophisticated, outgoing individual capable of communicating and building relationships with clergy, donors, and volunteer leadership.
- Strong writing and editing skills; comfortable drafting donor communications.
- Excellent organizational and project management skills; able to handle multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Highly independent and proactive, with a strong ability to take ownership of work and be a self-starter.
- Proficient in CRM systems (Salesforce preferred) and comfortable with data management.
- Discretion and professionalism in handling confidential donor information.
Compensation and Benefits:
Salary: $80,000–$90,000, commensurate with experience
Benefits:
- Medical Insurance with CareFirst
- Vision and Dental Insurance
- Life, Disability, and AD&D Insurance
- 403(b) Benefits with Employer Contribution
- Flexible Spending Account
Interested in applying? Email resume and cover letter to hr@whctemple.org.