Manager, Engagement Center - ion Philanthropy x University of Wisconsin

Company: ion Philanthropy LLC
Location: Madison
Posted on: February 20, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description ion Philanthropy is seeking a Manager of Engagement Center to support its partnership with the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association (WFAA) by leading, training, and managing student specialists engaged in outreach and fundraising in support of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Hire, train and manage student fundraisers and student supervisors Manage student schedules, performance metrics, and payroll Coach and mentor students on donor engagement and communication best practices Monitor campaign performance and generate reports Ensure compliance with university policies and ethical standards Drive participation through enhanced engagement and structured stewardship strategies Partner with WFAA colleagues to develop strategies around specialized fundraising efforts: days of giving, recurring gifts, parent donor acquisition, reunion calling, etc. Model projections, monitor metrics and communicate results, while using data to tell a cohesive story of the project's progress and trajectory Optimize strategies and adapt to maximize success metrics Manage day-to-day in VanillaSoft (or related technology) and CRM maintenance, in addition to building out automated cadences within VanillaSoft the platform Attend meetings with WFAA on weekly, biweekly, quarterly & annual basis Collaborate & strategize with WFAA staff to push innovative ideas and best practices Understand WFAA's Annual Giving strategies and create robust multi-channel cadences including engaging content that align with and advance the overall program goals Establish and execute staff culture and professional development plan Execute industry 1:1 communication best practices & tactics Measure individual employee performance and report out metrics on a weekly basis Provide fiscal year pacing metrics toward goal on a weekly basis to WFAA and to ion Troubleshoot data and VanillaSoft issues as needed QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty with energy and enthusiasm. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Demonstrated communication, collaboration, and team skills Proven ability to balance complex and often competing priorities Ability to thrive in an environment with high expectations for results Proficiency in basic software programs (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) Experience with CRM systems Familiarity with call center software preferred Call center experience preferred but not required Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills Ability to apply sound judgment, manage multiple priorities, and proactively anticipate opportunities and challenges EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience 3 or more years of relevant experience 2-3 years of fundraising/engagement management experience Management experience preferred PHYSICAL DEMANDS The employee will spend a large portion of his/her time at a desk, although the employee may at times be required to travel to business/office location(s). While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, write, type, talk, and listen. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms, and climb or balance. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus. CONFIDENTIALITY The employee will be exposed to a wide variety of sensitive and privileged personal and financial information and must be able to discern the appropriate manner in which such information must be handled and protect the integrity of such information at all times. ABOUT ION PHILANTHROPY ion Philanthropy is a dynamic fundraising consulting firm founded on the principle of disrupting the status quo and driving transformative impact across the nonprofit sector. We believe in moving beyond traditional fundraising methods to forge meaningful connections between organizations and their audiences, ultimately fueling sustainable growth and mission fulfillment. At ion Philanthropy, we understand that nonprofits are the catalysts for positive change in our world. That's why we partner with organizations to develop innovative and tailored fundraising strategies that resonate with their unique missions and values. We don't just raise funds; we cultivate lasting relationships, build engaged communities, and empower our partners to achieve their most ambitious goals. https://ionphilanthropy.com/ ion Philanthropy is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and all other protected classes under federal or state laws.

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