The posting
The Database and Stewardship Specialist is an essential member of the Institutional Advancement Team, managing gift processing, preparing timely acknowledgments and tax documentation, and maintaining detailed, accurate donor and prospect records. This role supports database quality and integrity by developing and implementing processes and procedures as the donor database evolves.
The Specialist maintains accurate records consistent with established practices and applicable legal, regulatory, and audit requirements in coordination with Finance and Accounting. The position provides reliable reporting to support fundraising goals and initiatives. This work is integral to The Henry Ford’s philanthropic efforts, fundraising progress, donor stewardship, and the overall success of the Institutional Advancement Team.
Essential Responsibilities
Serves as the primary administrator for donor database; develops and implements procedures and best practices to meet legal and regulatory compliances in coordination with IAT, Finance and Accountin
Trains new and current Advancement team members within Raiser’s Edge NXT
As new fundraising initiatives continue to evolve, establishes appropriate funds that reflect fundraising goals once implemented; Communicates and makes recommendations to Advancement, ITS and Finance throughout this process
Maintains accurate, complete data and supporting documentation consistent with audit requirements; Works closely with Finance and Accounting throughout the year and during audits, including maintaining documentation for major gift agreements
Monitors data flow between NetSuite, Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge NXT, and Siriusware to support accurate gift processing, reconciliation, and reporting. Troubleshoots data discrepancies and system issues and coordinates solutions with ITS and Finance. Recommends process improvements as systems and team needs evolve
Manages, reconciles, and imports gift information from multiple sources, including Siriusware, online donations, direct mail solicitations, wire transfers, and stock gifts; Researches and recommends ways to improve data capture and reconciliation
Prepares acknowledgment receipts and letters and identifies the need for new or updated templates; Tests and troubleshoots acknowledgment processes as databases and software change to support timely, accurate donor communications
Coordinates weekly with the Call Center to ensure Donor Society membership cards are printed and distributed promptly; Communicates changes to Donor Society programs and memberships
Determines and applies appropriate donor and prospect coding, including attributes, relationships, and solicitation codes, consistent with established database practices; Maintains current information using Trustee listings and updates from across the institution
Develops and generates custom dashboards and weekly gift reports to help the Advancement team track progress toward its goals
Stays current with industry standards, identifies areas for improvement, and recommends procedures to support current and future fundraising goals and initiatives
Answers the IAT main phone line, responds to constituent questions and concerns, and coordinates follow-up with appropriate team members
Supports the Advancement team with guest check-in and other activities at donor events and experiences; Some events occur after business hours or on weekends
Performs other duties as assigned
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree preferred or an equivalent combination of education and experience
5+ years' experience in a professional or administrative setting, that includes 3+ years' experience in donor database administration, gift processing, fundraising operations, or related data management and reporting
Demonstrated proficiency in administering donor relationship databases, including Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge NXT
Experience reconciling gift or financial data, maintaining accurate records, and generating reports
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel and Word
Availability to work a regular Monday–Friday schedule, 40 hours per week, with occasional evening and weekend hours to support donor events and departmental needs
Hybrid work setting
Special Skills
Commitment to and enthusiasm for The Henry Ford’s mission, vision and values and the ideals of philanthropy and ethical fundraising practices
Strong attention to detail and excellent organizational skills
Thorough understanding of donor database structures, data integrity, and practices for maintaining high-quality records
Strong time management skills, with the ability to prioritize competing responsibilities and manage multiple projects
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to explain database processes and train users
Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, including the ability to identify discrepancies and recommend process improvements Ability to collaborate across teams, particularly Advancement, Finance, Accounting, and ITS
Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion
Ability to take initiative and work independently as well as collaboratively
Curiosity and a commitment to ongoing learning, including staying current with relevant industry practices and technology



