Manager of Governance & Donor Engagement
Detroit Symphony Orchestra
Detroit, MI
Anticipated Start Date: 03/02/2026
Description
The Manager of Governance & Donor Engagement fulfills critical communication and project management needs of the DSO. The position is responsible for providing administrative support for volunteer leadership (Board of Directors, Trustees, Governing Members, and related committees) and the planning, administration and follow-up of all related meetings and projects, ensuring that volunteer leaders have a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the DSO to increase their advocacy and leadership efforts. This position serves as a critical liaison between leadership volunteers and the executive staff of the DSO.
The Manager will handle a broad and diverse range of responsibilities and assignments to support the organization’s needs, both internally and externally. To ensure success, this position will embrace attributes of adaptability and flexibility as the specific duties and responsibilities will evolve based on both skills and changing circumstances of the organization. This position serves as a critical member of the Advancement team and will support other efforts and events as needed.
Responsibilities
Provide planning, writing and support functions to plenary and committee meetings of the DSO Board of Directors, Board of Trustees, and Governing Members.
Responsible for researching, writing, editing and proofreading background items for agendas; taking and drafting meeting minutes; preparing briefing notes and correspondence; assisting with meeting preparation; and maintaining electronic records of documents.
Reviewing best practices and maintaining and updating the Board information.
Work collaboratively with other staff members involved in Board Meeting preparations.
Work collaboratively with staff members in support of Contributed Revenue goals as a key contributor to the Advancement team. • Responsible for the maintenance and use of board management tool, OnBoard
Support the Chair of the Board and Executive Team with communications to the Board of Directors and Board of Trustees, regularly highlighting upcoming events, meetings, and other activities.
Understand and carry out activities in accordance with the bylaws.
Serve as project manager to plan and organize the Annual Meeting and other special projects.
Serve as a liaison to the Board of Director and Board of Trustees for ticketing, external events, Tours, etc. as needed.
Regularly attend DSO concerts and events, assist with planning, logistics, donor needs, and events as needed.
Participate in and/or lead cross-departmental projects as required.
Act as staff liaison at DSO events and the Donor Lounge approximately 2-3 times per month.
Other duties as assigned.
Requirements
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
2-4 years’ of experience in development, executive support, or project management role.
Excellent administrative, organizational, and verbal and written communication skills. Attention to detail and professionalism.
Strong computer skills, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Confidence in dealing with senior-level executives, volunteers, and donors in-person and via phone, email, and mail. Experience acting with integrity, diplomacy, tact and maintain confidentiality.
Ability to act independently, take initiative, and meet changing priorities. Experience identifying, evaluating, investigating, and offering alternative solutions to problems.
Successful experience working in, and contributing to, a collaborative, team environment.
Desired Qualifications
Familiarity with fundraising databases, particularly Tessitura, the database utilized by the DSO.
Interest in the arts and/or classical music. Not sure you meet 100% of the qualifications? If this role speaks to you and you believe that you can excel, we encourage you to apply. The Detroit Symphony Orchestra is committed to considering candidates with diverse workplace experiences and backgrounds who are interested in building and delivering impactful services and programs.
Additional Information
This is a salaried, non-union position.
This position is eligible for the DSO’s exceptional benefits package, including $0 cost medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, 403b retirement account, and great ancillary benefits.
Successful candidates must be available to work a varying schedule, including nights and weekends, to meet the needs of the DSO’s performance schedule.
All positions at the DSO require the successful completion of a background check prior to beginning employment. A criminal record does not automatically disqualify candidates.
Physical Requirements
This role primarily works in an office environment and frequently has prolonged periods of sitting and looking at a computer screen. Never 0% Seldom 5% - 25% Occasionally 26% - 50% Periodically 51% - 75%
Frequently 76% - 100% Standing Walking Prolonged Sitting Lifting/carrying up to 10 lbs.
Lifting/carrying 10 - 25 lbs. Lifting/carrying 26 - 50 lbs. Lifting/carrying more than 50 lbs. Pushing/Pulling Climbing Stooping/Kneeling/Crouching/ Crawling Reaching Manual dexterity Driving a Motorized Vehicle Repetitive Motions
Position Reports to: Director of Donor Engagement
Direct Reports: None
If an accommodation is needed to ensure your successful participation in the application or interview process, please reach out to hr@dso.org for assistance.
Salary Range and Employee Benefits
$55,000 - $60,000 annually
How to Apply for this Job
About the Organization
The Detroit Symphony Orchestra is known internationally for trailblazing performances, collaborations with the world’s foremost musical artists, and a deep commitment to serving our community. Making its home in historic Orchestra Hall at the Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center, the DSO actively pursues its vision to be an inclusive and culturally relevant community where all people can experience their world through music. The DSO is a complex organization.
Operating 365 days per year, we are a performing arts institution, an educational facility, and a community center. We are governed by an independent Board of Directors and employ both union and non-union employees as musicians, stage crew, and administrative staff. Creating a unified culture throughout the institution is an organizational imperative. The DSO offers a unique, fast-paced working environment and an excellent overall compensation package. The Detroit Symphony Orchestra is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
WOC is not responsible for the content of job postings.
Discover More Jobs
