Manager of Fundraising Operations

Company Description First Air Force One is dedicated to restoring President Eisenhower’s historic aircraft and preserving its legacy for future generations. Once forgotten in the desert and used for parts, the aircraft is now the centerpiece of a unique aviation and historical preservation initiative. The organization is focused on creating meaningful visitor experiences that celebrate American history, innovation, and leadership. Team members contribute directly to a high-profile restoration project that blends education, community engagement, and fundraising. Joining First Air Force One means helping bring an important piece of history back to life and ensuring its impact endures.

Role Description The Manager of Fundraising Operations is a full-time, hybrid role based in Harrisonburg, VA, with flexibility for some work from home. This role oversees day-to-day fundraising activities, including planning and executing campaigns, managing donor databases, and tracking fundraising metrics and reporting. The manager coordinates donor communications, prepares proposals and stewardship materials, and ensures timely acknowledgments and follow-up. Responsibilities include collaborating with leadership to develop fundraising strategies, supporting events and community outreach, and maintaining processes that align with compliance, budgeting, and organizational goals. The role works closely with internal teams and external partners to grow revenue streams that sustain the restoration project and related programs.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in fundraising operations, including campaign planning, donor relations, and stewardship.


• Proficiency with donor management or CRM systems, data entry, reporting, and basic data analysis.


• Strong written and verbal communication skills for proposals, donor correspondence, and public presentations.


• Solid organizational and project management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple deadlines.


• Experience coordinating events or community-based fundraising activities.


• Knowledge of nonprofit fundraising practices, gift processing, and record-keeping standards.


• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and engage volunteers and partners.


• High level of integrity, discretion, and commitment to ethical fundraising and donor confidentiality.


• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business, communications, or a related field, or equivalent experience.


• Interest in aviation history, museums, or historic preservation is strongly preferred.