Development Operations Manager

• Newly created, permanent role with real community impact
• Drive operational excellence by implementing best-practice methodologies
• Champion data-driven decision making to enhance donor insights

Deliver lasting impact by driving development and engaging stakeholders at all levels in alignment with the mission and values of the Catholic Church in Melbourne.

About The Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne

Presided over by the Archbishop, the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne (CAM) is the largest Archdiocese in Australia. It comprises around 1.1 million Catholics with a wide variety of people, cultures and ministries, providing services and support including pastoral, educational, social welfare, financial and administration services.

About the Opportunity

Reporting directly to the Director of Development and Philanthropy, the Development Operations Manager is responsible for the coordination and operational leadership of the Archdiocese’s major fundraising and engagement programs. This is a full-time, permanent position that offers a hybrid model of work and a dedicated team to lead both on a day-to-day basis and in the enhancement of fundraising and engagement strategy.

This role brings together program delivery, donor experience, data systems, and community insights to build a coherent and effective fundraising infrastructure across the Archdiocese.

In addition to this, the Development Operations Manager will:

• Lead the operational delivery of major fundraising programs.
• Design and manage digital donor journeys, segmentation strategies, and personalised outreach.
• Monitor feedback and data to continuously improve donor touchpoints.
• Ensure the effective use of Raiser’s Edge CRM and related systems.
• Support data-driven decision-making by ensuring accurate gift processing, reporting, and donor analytics.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to incorporate research into campaign planning, precinct engagement, and donor strategy.
• Ensure fundraising reflects the voice of the Catholic community and engages diverse groups, including parishes, schools, and migrant communities.

About You

You’re an experienced fundraising or donor engagement professional with a track record of driving successful campaigns and building meaningful donor relationships. You thrive in environments where continuous improvement is valued and are passionate about making a tangible impact through your work.

What You’ll Bring to the Role

• 5+ years’ experience in a similar fundraising, campaign, or donor engagement role.
• Strong technical proficiency, particularly with Raiser’s Edge or comparable donor management systems.
• Outstanding communication skills—both written and verbal—with a talent for storytelling and a proven ability to influence and negotiate with a range of stakeholders under tight deadlines.
• Proven leadership and people management experience, with the ability to inspire and engage teams.
• Sharp attention to detail and a commitment to quality, with the ability to turn data and community insights into actionable fundraising strategies.
• Strong relationship-building skills, with the ability to connect and collaborate effectively across internal teams and with external partners.

Why Work for CAM?

• Be part of a values-driven, mission-aligned organisation making a meaningful impact across the community.
• Enjoy a modern, open-plan office in leafy East Melbourne—just on the edge of the CBD—with access to a 5th-floor terrace offering stunning city views.
• Join a dedicated and supportive team that values collaboration, purpose, and professional growth.
• Access our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support your health, wellbeing, and work–life balance.

How to Apply?

If you believe your skills and experience align with this position, we would love to hear from you. To submit an application, please click apply and provide a copy of your current resume and a cover letter.

Please note: We will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Employment is subject to satisfactory background checks which include a National Police Check, Working with Children Check and Reference Checks. To be successful in this role you must hold valid working rights in Australia.

The Archdiocese is committed to the safety, wellbeing, and dignity of all children and vulnerable adults.