Looking for a job

Ann Marie Sanders

@annmariesanders

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30+ yrs driving mission-based nonprofits through donor engagement, gift cultivation & partnerships.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I seek a role that allows me to leverage my fundraising expertise in a collaborative environment, focusing on strategic donor engagement and impactful partnerships.

I am a highly analytical and performance-focused professional with extensive experience in fundraising, marketing, and special events. My career has been marked by a strong focus on developing and maintaining collaborative relationships with donors, patrons, and community partners. I am recognized for my innovative thinking and strategic approach to achieving development goals, which has led to significant increases in donor engagement and contributions.

Throughout my career, I have successfully managed donor stewardship programs, crafted impactful marketing materials, and coordinated large-scale fundraising events. My role as Director of Development at Williams Syndrome Association allowed me to design multi-tiered donor strategies that that achieved annual fundraising goals of approximately $2 million.

With a strong background in CRM and data management, I have effectively utilized tools like Salesforce, Raiser's Edge, Salsa, Classy, and GiveSmart to enhance donor relations and reporting. I am passionate about leveraging my skills to drive fundraising success and foster meaningful connections within the nonprofit sector.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Donor Engagement Manager

The Fedcap Group

Dec 2024 - Jun 2025 (6 months)

Designed and refined multi-tiered donor stewardship strategies, including thank-you communications that influenced increased donor giving. Managed donor pipelines across multiple affiliate organizations, salvaged lapsed donations, and conducted direct outreach resulting in recovered gifts and sustained donor engagement.

Donor Management Donor Engagement Strategic Communications CRM Event Planning

Director of Development

Williams Syndrome Association

Sep 2022 - Nov 2024 (2 years 2 months)

Implemented and managed stewardship programs for various donor types, ensuring timely recognition and cultivating relationships to achieve annual fundraising goals. Developed planned giving programs and oversaw the end-of-year Annual Appeal campaign through social media and direct mail initiatives.

Planned Giving Program CRM Software Salesforce Stewardship Communication Strategy

Special Events/Community Relations Mgr

The Arc of the Capital Area

Mar 2019 - Sep 2022 (3 years 6 months)

Crafted annual development plans and implemented engagement and fundraising strategies to enhance revenue. Identified potential donor companies with corporate social responsibility objectives and strategized partnerships to enhance fundraising efforts.

Annual Planning Funding Strategies Partnerships CRM Software Salsa Donor Recognition Social Media Marketing Special Event Functions

Marketing & Development Director

Downstairs Cabaret Theatre

Feb 1992 - Mar 2019 (27 years 1 month)

Actively participated in and helped establish a multi-faceted fundraising program for individual and corporate contributions, as well as grants and major gifts. Designed and created marketing materials to support institutional, promotional, outreach, and fundraising priorities.

Fundraising Staff Supervision Budgeting Bookkeeping Marketing Public Relations Production Management Grant Preparation

Marketing Director

Geva Theatre

Feb 1991 - Apr 1992 (1 year 2 months)

Developed and implemented marketing plans for productions and the institution. Led and supervised marketing, telemarketing, and box office staff.

Marketing Planning Team Leadership Staff Supervision Box Office Management

Marketing Director

Studio Arena Theatre

Sep 1985 - Jan 1991 (5 years 4 months)

Developed and implemented marketing plans for productions and the institution. Led and supervised marketing, telemarketing, and box office staff.

Marketing Planning Team Leadership Staff Supervision Box Office Management

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

State University of New York, College at Fredonia

Bachelor of Science, Music Business

Studied Music Business with a focus on Arts Administration and Communications/Public Relations. Gained foundational knowledge in the business aspects of the music industry and public relations strategies.