Manager of Governance and Donor Engagement

Overview

Manager of Governance & Donor Engagement

Department: Advancement

FLSA Status: Exempt

Salary Grade: 6

Salary Range/Wages: $55,000 - $60,000

Work Location: Hybrid

FT/PT: Full-time

Last Revision Date: 1/26/26

How to apply: A cover letter is required for consideration of this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and working at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra; outline your skills and experience that directly relate to the responsibilities of the role.

The Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) 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 in historic Orchestra Hall. 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. We are guided by our values of excellence, diversity, resilience, collaboration, and innovation.

The DSO is invested in the city of Detroit through our Detroit Strategy initiative.

The DSO offers a unique, fast-paced working environment, an excellent overall compensation package, and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. For more information visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

The Manager of Governance & Donor Engagement fulfills critical communication and project management needs of the DSO. The position provides administrative support for volunteer leadership (Board of Directors, Trustees, Governing Members, and related committees) and manages the planning, administration and follow-up of all related meetings and projects. The role ensures volunteer leaders have a comprehensive knowledge of the DSO to increase advocacy and leadership efforts.

This position serves as a liaison between leadership volunteers and the executive staff.

The Manager will handle a broad and diverse range of responsibilities and assignments to support the organization’s needs. The role requires adaptability and flexibility as duties evolve. The position is a key member of the Advancement team and will support other efforts and events as needed.

• Provide planning, writing and support for plenary and committee meetings of the DSO Board of Directors, Board of Trustees, and Governing Members.
• Research, write, edit and proofread background items for agendas; take and draft meeting minutes; prepare briefing notes and correspondence; assist with meeting preparation; and maintain electronic records of documents.
• Review best practices and maintain/update Board information.
• Collaborate with other staff involved in Board Meeting preparations.
• Collaborate with staff to support Contributed Revenue goals as a key contributor to the Advancement team.
• Maintain and use the board management tool, OnBoard.
• Support the Chair of the Board and Executive Team with communications to the Board of Directors and Board of Trustees, highlighting upcoming events, meetings, and 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.
• Act as liaison to the Board of Directors 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.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• 2-4 years’ experience in development, executive support, or project management role.
• Excellent…