Membership & Events Manager

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer: 

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match 
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us! 

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

BASIC FUNCTION:

The membership and events manager is responsible for developing and managing WHUT’s membership and individual giving programs, including donor cultivation, renewal, upgrades, and online giving. This position plays a critical role in deepening donor relationships, strengthening stewardship practices, and growing philanthropic revenue. The Manager will also lead event-based fundraising and donor engagement efforts, serving as a visible and enthusiastic ambassador for WHUT.

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:

Supervises administrative assistants and interns.

NATURE AND SCOPE:

• Internal contacts include executives, faculty, advancement professionals, and employees across Howard University.
• External contacts include donors, alumni, community stakeholders, vendors, corporate sponsors, foundations, and media partners.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Lead all aspects of WHUT’s individual giving and membership program, ensuring data-driven strategies for donor acquisition, renewal, upgrades, and lapsed re-engagement.
• Coordinate with the Contributor Development Partnership (CDP) and other partners to manage direct mail campaigns, renewal communications, and monthly pledge processing.
• Develop and implement a strategic calendar of fundraising and stewardship events (e.g., pledge events, meet-and-greets, small cultivation gatherings, appreciation receptions).
• Serve as the primary relationship manager for a defined portfolio of leadership donors, prospects, and private foundations; manage cultivation plans and donor moves management process.
• Collaborate with marketing and communications teams to ensure integrated messaging and digital fundraising efforts across email, web, and social media.
• Utilize CRM/database systems to track donor activity, segment communications, and report on campaign performance.
• Partner with programming and production teams to align pledge drives and on-air fundraising efforts with donor engagement goals.
• Ensure a high-quality donor experience by responding promptly to inquiries, resolving issues, and providing timely acknowledgments and impact updates.
• Engage with WHUT’s leadership, board, and volunteers to identify donor prospects and leverage networks for fundraising success.
• Identify and pursue new opportunities for donor engagement and community-based fundraising in alignment with WHUT’s mission and DEI values.
• Research industry trends and implement best practices in public media fundraising, donor stewardship, and event planning.
• Track and report on fundraising performance, donor retention, and event outcomes; use metrics to inform strategy and improve effectiveness.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES:    

• Demonstrated success in donor relations, annual giving, and special event fundraising.
• Knowledge of CRM tools and data segmentation to support targeted donor outreach.
• Strong leadership and collaboration skills with a proactive, flexible approach to managing priorities.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail; ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Experience working in or supporting diverse communities with an equity-centered approach.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and digital platforms (email marketing, social media, donation systems)

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, marketing, communications, nonprofit management, or a related field.
• Minimum five (5) years of relevant experience in fundraising, development, or donor relations with demonstrated results.
• Preferred: Experience working in public media or higher education environments; knowledge of on-air fundraising and pledge drives.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and execute successful donor events and campaigns.
• Strong supervisory experience with the ability to lead and inspire staff, interns, and volunteers.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure