Full-Time Development Associate/Manager
Job Description
About Harmony Institute:
HI believes that a compelling story has the power to change the world. But despite massive investment in media designed to win hearts and minds, no one fully understands how this happens. That’s where Harmony Institute (HI) comes in. Founded in 2008, HI is an independent, interdisciplinary research center dedicated to understanding the social impact of media.
Our team employs a variety of measures and methods — from brain scans of individuals experiencing a narrative to analysis of online conversations around media — to uncover fundamental principles and share actionable insights with media makers, policy makers, and the public. We combine academic rigor with a tech startup ethos: our trail-blazing research around media’s influence on individuals, groups, and social systems directly informs the data-driven tools that we build.
Position summary:
The Harmony Institute (HI) seeks a proactive and creative development professional to manage the organization’s fundraising activities during a period of growth and expansion.
The ideal candidate will share a passion for and commitment to HI’s mission and research; be familiar with key stakeholders in the technology, film, and media industries, as well as social and philanthropic sectors; and possess excellent organizational skills in development and project management. The Development Associate/Manager will demonstrate a proven track record of success in the cultivation and solicitation of government/institutional grants and major individual giving as well as in the management and planning of development programming/events.
Scope of activities, duties, and responsibilities:
The Development Associate/Manager will work alongside HI leadership to realize an ambitious vision for organizational growth as HI scales its programs over the next five years. Toward this end, the Development Associate/Manager will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of fundraising goals and strategies, in collaboration with key staff and board members. This position will be either at an Associate or Manager level, based on experience.
Primary activities and goals may include:
• Tracking all donor and prospect interactions, requirements and requests.
• Identifying and conducting research on donors, prospects and foundations.
• Supporting the Executive Director and Managing Director and senior management to identify, cultivate and solicit grants.
• Driving prospects through to gift or grant/contract award.
• Overseeing all activities related to these efforts, including: managing grant calendars and grant fulfillment; creating and maintaining donor profiles and records; and tracking interactions.
• Managing stewardship of existing donors through a program of personal contact, recognition, and regular communication.
• Creating and maintaining a database of development contacts.
Knowledge, skills, abilities:
• Exceptional writing, listening, and oral communication skills and talent for translating complex research and ideas into accessible, compelling narratives;
• High standards of quality, with superior attention to detail and accuracy;
• Highly developed interpersonal skills;
• High level of discretion;
• Demonstrated knowledge of best practices in institutional advancement, development, and philanthropy
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks, solve problems, and a desire to gradually take on more responsibility as this position grows.
• Demonstrated ability in a deadline-driven environment, comfortable working independently and as a team member;
• Familiarity with development software/databases including Salesforce;
• Sense of humor, maturity, and grace under pressure;
• A passion for and understanding of the mission of HI.
Qualifications:
• Minimum 2-5 years of experience in resource or business development, preferably within a non-profit or research environment;
• Proven record of accomplishment that demonstrates initiative, creativity, and fundraising skills.