Minnesota Council of Nonprofits
Senior Capital Campaign Manager
Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, Apple Valley, Minnesota, United States
The Organization
The Minnesota Zoo Foundation (Foundation) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that accelerates the Minnesota Zoo’s impact as a driving force for the health and well‑being of people, animals and the planet by providing critical support and resources to fuel their mission. Our support propels leading‑edge ideas that redefine the role and impact of modern zoos, such as the creation of innovative nature experiences, best‑in‑class education programs and industry‑leading conservation efforts.
We help open doors to uniquely immersive nature experiences that benefit the well‑being of all by sponsoring programs that bring the Zoo experience to Minnesota communities and reduce physical, financial and cultural barriers to the Zoo.
We broaden the reach and impact of the Zoo’s mission by leading critical fundraising initiatives, attracting Zoo volunteerism and advocacy and supporting critical conservation work. We empower the Zoo to continuously raise the bar for excellence in animal care and operations by funding the most advanced equipment, best‑in‑class facilities and industry‑leading staff development opportunities.
Position Summary The Senior Capital Campaign Manager will play a central role in planning, managing, and executing the Minnesota Zoo Foundation’s capital campaign. This individual will work closely with campaign consultants, the Foundation’s senior leadership team, and the Capital Campaign Committee to drive campaign progress. The Manager will oversee campaign logistics, communications, committee engagement, donor cultivation, and stewardship activities. They will also play a key role in identifying, cultivating, and securing new capital campaign donors in support of the campaign’s goals.
This is a full‑time, exempt position reporting to the Executive Director of the Minnesota Zoo Foundation, and is a hybrid work position, requiring being onsite at the Minnesota Zoo or Foundation offices 3+ days per week.
Duties / Responsibilities Campaign Management and Strategy – 30%
Partner with capital campaign consultants and Foundation leadership to implement and manage campaign strategy.
Coordinate all aspects of the campaign plan, including timelines, benchmarks, donor strategies, and reporting.
Track and report progress toward campaign goals; provide timely updates to leadership, staff, and volunteer committees.
Prepare materials, presentations, and briefings for internal and external stakeholders.
Provide regular written reports on campaign progress, challenges, and corrective strategies.
Manage the campaign fundraising budget in coordination with leadership.
Committee & Volunteer Engagement – 15%
Serve as primary staff liaison to the Capital Campaign Committee, ensuring meetings are well‑organized, productive, and supported with timely materials.
Support and motivate committee members in their roles as campaign ambassadors and fundraisers.
Provide tools, training, and ongoing communication to ensure volunteers are engaged and successful.
Support recruitment, orientation, and logistics for campaign volunteers.
Provide guidance on solicitation strategies and effective ambassador roles for campaign committee members.
Donor Cultivation & Fundraising – 15%
Collaborate with leadership and campaign committee members to identify and qualify new capital campaign prospects.
Develop and implement strategies to cultivate, solicit, and steward prospective donors throughout the campaign.
Manage a portfolio of up to 75 prospective capital campaign donors, guiding them through the capital giving process.
Partner with the leadership team on donor recognition opportunities and campaign‑related stewardship events.
Track and implement donor acknowledgment, stewardship, and public recognition.
Campaign Communications – 10%
Develop and oversee production of campaign communications assets (case materials, proposals, digital/print collateral).
Partner with communications/marketing team to integrate campaign milestones into broader public relations and media efforts.
Create donor briefings, profiles, and talking points for leadership, board, and volunteers as needed.
Prospect & Portfolio Management – 15%
Support the development and maintenance of a campaign prospect management system.
Partner with Major Gifts & IG team and executive leadership to track movement through the donor cycle.
Ensure that accurate data related to prospects and donors is recorded and tracked in donor databases.
Generate campaign‑related reports as needed.
Events & Donor Engagement – 10%
Plan and manage cultivation and recognition events tied to campaign milestones working in conjunction with Foundation Events Manager and Marketing team.
Ensure events align with overall donor engagement and stewardship strategies.
Other – 5%
Participate through active involvement in team and all staff meetings, events, and training.
Provide on‑site support for events and programs as needed by the Foundation, which typically occur on the weekends or in the evenings.
Additional responsibilities may be assigned based on the changing needs of the organization and the employee’s interests, aptitude, and experience.
Minimum Skills & Experience Required
5+ years of progressive experience in fundraising, or major gift development, preferably with experience in a large‑scale capital campaign.
3+ years of experience in project or campaign management or demonstrated experience leading complex division/companywide initiatives with multiple internal and external stakeholders.
Demonstrated success in donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
Strong organizational, project management, and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to craft compelling donor communications and reports.
Experience working with volunteer leaders, board members, or campaign committees.
Proficiency with fundraising or sales CRMs, Microsoft Office Suite, and Google Workspace.
Demonstrated ability to analyze data and generate actionable reports.
Ability to travel and flexibility for occasional evening/weekend work tied to campaign activities.
Demonstrated experience handling confidential and sensitive information.
Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to interact appropriately with donors and the general public via email, over the phone, and in person.
A valid driver’s license, with a safe driving record, and at least one year of driving experience travel to offsite meetings or other responsibilities.
Background checks required
Preferred Skills & Experience
Experience in zoo, cultural institution, or conservation/nonprofit sector.
Familiarity with Minnesota’s philanthropic community.
Strong understanding of campaign best practices, fundraising trends and ethics.
Key Competencies
Strategic thinker with ability to execute detailed plans.
Relationship builder who thrives in a collaborative, team‑oriented environment.
Self‑motivated, proactive, and adaptable in a fast‑paced, evolving campaign environment.
Commitment to the mission and values of the Minnesota Zoo and the Minnesota Zoo Foundation.
Education
Required: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, communications, or related field
Preferred: Professional certifications, coursework, or relevant professional experience
Minnesota Zoo Foundation Qualification Requirements
Collaborative style and the ability to work with a diverse group of individuals both inside the organization and out in the community. Experience, ability, and commitment to working with individuals and teams that are mixed across lines of difference such as race, gender‑identity, sexual orientation, religion, ability, age, class and immigrant status.
Ability to clearly represent and present the mission and vision of the Minnesota Zoo.
Ability to work independently and proactively while keeping supervisor apprised of issues, opportunities, and progress.
Ability to work collaboratively and effectively with colleagues in multiple departments/divisions.
Strong organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize and manage multiple deadlines.
High degree of integrity, ethical decision making, and commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Occasional evening and weekend work required and must be capable of planning and managing independent travel.
Physical, Travel, Additional Requirements
Must be able to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
May need to work occasional weekends and evenings dependent on Foundation events.
Required to use a computer and phone; Frequent use of hands for data entry/keystrokes and simple grasping;
Ability to navigate the Zoo premises and accompany donors and prospects on tours in variable weather conditions, both indoor and outdoor.
Exerting up to 40 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including lifting objects up to shoulder level.
Moderate noise level in an office setting, occasional exposure to prevalent weather conditions on the campus of the Minnesota Zoo.
Time spent on computer: 75%. Time spent in virtual or in‑person meetings: 20%.
Occasional driving personal vehicle to run errands for the Foundation will be required.
This is a hybrid work position, onsite at the Minnesota Zoo or Foundation offices 3+ days per week.
Reports to: Executive Director
Supervises: N/A
Type of Position: Full‑time, exempt
Salary Range: $85,000-$95,000, set range based on experience & qualifications, + competitive benefits
Benefits eligible: Health, Dental, Vision Insurance, Life / Short Term / Long Term Disability Insurance, 401K, HSA (including employer contribution), Paid Family Medical Leave, and more.
Equal Opportunity Employer It is the policy of the Minnesota Zoo Foundation to comply with all applicable equal employment opportunity laws and regulations. The Foundation provides equal opportunity employment for all qualified persons. All our employment practices, benefits and programs will be administered without regard to actual or perceived race (inclusive of traits associated with race, such as hair texture and hair styles such as braids, locs, and twists), color, religion, sex, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, veteran status or military history, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, pregnancy, family history or familial status, genetic information, union membership, creed, status with respect to receipt of public assistance, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, use of lawful consumable products, or any other basis protected by Federal, State or local law.
This commitment extends to all phases of employment including, but not limited to, recruitment, selection, job assignment, transfers, training and development, promotions, demotions, discipline, compensation, benefits, terminations, layoff, recall, transfer, access to benefits, leaves of absences, and all other conditions or privileges associated with employment.
The Foundation expressly prohibits any form of unlawful employee harassment or discrimination based on any of the characteristics mentioned above. Improper interference with the ability of other employees to perform their expected job duties is not tolerated.
The Foundation will endeavor to make a reasonable accommodation of an otherwise qualified applicant or employee related to an individual’s physical or mental disability, pregnancy, sincerely held religious beliefs and practices, and/or any other reason required by applicable law, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship upon the Foundation’s business operations.
Applications received by Sunday, November 9, 2025 will receive first consideration.
Apply online at https://recruiting.paylocity.com/Recruiting/Jobs/Details/3660060?source=MCN
#J-18808-Ljbffr
We help open doors to uniquely immersive nature experiences that benefit the well‑being of all by sponsoring programs that bring the Zoo experience to Minnesota communities and reduce physical, financial and cultural barriers to the Zoo.
We broaden the reach and impact of the Zoo’s mission by leading critical fundraising initiatives, attracting Zoo volunteerism and advocacy and supporting critical conservation work. We empower the Zoo to continuously raise the bar for excellence in animal care and operations by funding the most advanced equipment, best‑in‑class facilities and industry‑leading staff development opportunities.
Position Summary The Senior Capital Campaign Manager will play a central role in planning, managing, and executing the Minnesota Zoo Foundation’s capital campaign. This individual will work closely with campaign consultants, the Foundation’s senior leadership team, and the Capital Campaign Committee to drive campaign progress. The Manager will oversee campaign logistics, communications, committee engagement, donor cultivation, and stewardship activities. They will also play a key role in identifying, cultivating, and securing new capital campaign donors in support of the campaign’s goals.
This is a full‑time, exempt position reporting to the Executive Director of the Minnesota Zoo Foundation, and is a hybrid work position, requiring being onsite at the Minnesota Zoo or Foundation offices 3+ days per week.
Duties / Responsibilities Campaign Management and Strategy – 30%
Partner with capital campaign consultants and Foundation leadership to implement and manage campaign strategy.
Coordinate all aspects of the campaign plan, including timelines, benchmarks, donor strategies, and reporting.
Track and report progress toward campaign goals; provide timely updates to leadership, staff, and volunteer committees.
Prepare materials, presentations, and briefings for internal and external stakeholders.
Provide regular written reports on campaign progress, challenges, and corrective strategies.
Manage the campaign fundraising budget in coordination with leadership.
Committee & Volunteer Engagement – 15%
Serve as primary staff liaison to the Capital Campaign Committee, ensuring meetings are well‑organized, productive, and supported with timely materials.
Support and motivate committee members in their roles as campaign ambassadors and fundraisers.
Provide tools, training, and ongoing communication to ensure volunteers are engaged and successful.
Support recruitment, orientation, and logistics for campaign volunteers.
Provide guidance on solicitation strategies and effective ambassador roles for campaign committee members.
Donor Cultivation & Fundraising – 15%
Collaborate with leadership and campaign committee members to identify and qualify new capital campaign prospects.
Develop and implement strategies to cultivate, solicit, and steward prospective donors throughout the campaign.
Manage a portfolio of up to 75 prospective capital campaign donors, guiding them through the capital giving process.
Partner with the leadership team on donor recognition opportunities and campaign‑related stewardship events.
Track and implement donor acknowledgment, stewardship, and public recognition.
Campaign Communications – 10%
Develop and oversee production of campaign communications assets (case materials, proposals, digital/print collateral).
Partner with communications/marketing team to integrate campaign milestones into broader public relations and media efforts.
Create donor briefings, profiles, and talking points for leadership, board, and volunteers as needed.
Prospect & Portfolio Management – 15%
Support the development and maintenance of a campaign prospect management system.
Partner with Major Gifts & IG team and executive leadership to track movement through the donor cycle.
Ensure that accurate data related to prospects and donors is recorded and tracked in donor databases.
Generate campaign‑related reports as needed.
Events & Donor Engagement – 10%
Plan and manage cultivation and recognition events tied to campaign milestones working in conjunction with Foundation Events Manager and Marketing team.
Ensure events align with overall donor engagement and stewardship strategies.
Other – 5%
Participate through active involvement in team and all staff meetings, events, and training.
Provide on‑site support for events and programs as needed by the Foundation, which typically occur on the weekends or in the evenings.
Additional responsibilities may be assigned based on the changing needs of the organization and the employee’s interests, aptitude, and experience.
Minimum Skills & Experience Required
5+ years of progressive experience in fundraising, or major gift development, preferably with experience in a large‑scale capital campaign.
3+ years of experience in project or campaign management or demonstrated experience leading complex division/companywide initiatives with multiple internal and external stakeholders.
Demonstrated success in donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
Strong organizational, project management, and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to craft compelling donor communications and reports.
Experience working with volunteer leaders, board members, or campaign committees.
Proficiency with fundraising or sales CRMs, Microsoft Office Suite, and Google Workspace.
Demonstrated ability to analyze data and generate actionable reports.
Ability to travel and flexibility for occasional evening/weekend work tied to campaign activities.
Demonstrated experience handling confidential and sensitive information.
Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to interact appropriately with donors and the general public via email, over the phone, and in person.
A valid driver’s license, with a safe driving record, and at least one year of driving experience travel to offsite meetings or other responsibilities.
Background checks required
Preferred Skills & Experience
Experience in zoo, cultural institution, or conservation/nonprofit sector.
Familiarity with Minnesota’s philanthropic community.
Strong understanding of campaign best practices, fundraising trends and ethics.
Key Competencies
Strategic thinker with ability to execute detailed plans.
Relationship builder who thrives in a collaborative, team‑oriented environment.
Self‑motivated, proactive, and adaptable in a fast‑paced, evolving campaign environment.
Commitment to the mission and values of the Minnesota Zoo and the Minnesota Zoo Foundation.
Education
Required: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, communications, or related field
Preferred: Professional certifications, coursework, or relevant professional experience
Minnesota Zoo Foundation Qualification Requirements
Collaborative style and the ability to work with a diverse group of individuals both inside the organization and out in the community. Experience, ability, and commitment to working with individuals and teams that are mixed across lines of difference such as race, gender‑identity, sexual orientation, religion, ability, age, class and immigrant status.
Ability to clearly represent and present the mission and vision of the Minnesota Zoo.
Ability to work independently and proactively while keeping supervisor apprised of issues, opportunities, and progress.
Ability to work collaboratively and effectively with colleagues in multiple departments/divisions.
Strong organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize and manage multiple deadlines.
High degree of integrity, ethical decision making, and commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Occasional evening and weekend work required and must be capable of planning and managing independent travel.
Physical, Travel, Additional Requirements
Must be able to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
May need to work occasional weekends and evenings dependent on Foundation events.
Required to use a computer and phone; Frequent use of hands for data entry/keystrokes and simple grasping;
Ability to navigate the Zoo premises and accompany donors and prospects on tours in variable weather conditions, both indoor and outdoor.
Exerting up to 40 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including lifting objects up to shoulder level.
Moderate noise level in an office setting, occasional exposure to prevalent weather conditions on the campus of the Minnesota Zoo.
Time spent on computer: 75%. Time spent in virtual or in‑person meetings: 20%.
Occasional driving personal vehicle to run errands for the Foundation will be required.
This is a hybrid work position, onsite at the Minnesota Zoo or Foundation offices 3+ days per week.
Reports to: Executive Director
Supervises: N/A
Type of Position: Full‑time, exempt
Salary Range: $85,000-$95,000, set range based on experience & qualifications, + competitive benefits
Benefits eligible: Health, Dental, Vision Insurance, Life / Short Term / Long Term Disability Insurance, 401K, HSA (including employer contribution), Paid Family Medical Leave, and more.
Equal Opportunity Employer It is the policy of the Minnesota Zoo Foundation to comply with all applicable equal employment opportunity laws and regulations. The Foundation provides equal opportunity employment for all qualified persons. All our employment practices, benefits and programs will be administered without regard to actual or perceived race (inclusive of traits associated with race, such as hair texture and hair styles such as braids, locs, and twists), color, religion, sex, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, veteran status or military history, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, pregnancy, family history or familial status, genetic information, union membership, creed, status with respect to receipt of public assistance, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, use of lawful consumable products, or any other basis protected by Federal, State or local law.
This commitment extends to all phases of employment including, but not limited to, recruitment, selection, job assignment, transfers, training and development, promotions, demotions, discipline, compensation, benefits, terminations, layoff, recall, transfer, access to benefits, leaves of absences, and all other conditions or privileges associated with employment.
The Foundation expressly prohibits any form of unlawful employee harassment or discrimination based on any of the characteristics mentioned above. Improper interference with the ability of other employees to perform their expected job duties is not tolerated.
The Foundation will endeavor to make a reasonable accommodation of an otherwise qualified applicant or employee related to an individual’s physical or mental disability, pregnancy, sincerely held religious beliefs and practices, and/or any other reason required by applicable law, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship upon the Foundation’s business operations.
Applications received by Sunday, November 9, 2025 will receive first consideration.
Apply online at https://recruiting.paylocity.com/Recruiting/Jobs/Details/3660060?source=MCN
#J-18808-Ljbffr