Gregory N. Elfers Email & Phone Number

In March of 2012 I took a chance on a job as a telefundraiser for the Metropolitan Opera making calls to secure funding from the Met’s donor base. What some might see as grueling work, I saw an opportunity to learn about development, arts administration, and donor communications from the bottom up. After a little over a year on the phones I was promoted to supervisor of that department and eventually Associate Director with the responsibility of securing $10 million annually for the nations largest nonprofit performing arts organization. Leading the telefunding team provided me with a unique opportunity to oversee a staff of 25 callers and three supervisors dedicated to not only securing donations, but adding value to donor contributions. I oversaw the implementation of a robust subscription calling program and helped launch peer-to-peer texting and open up a brand new fundraising channel. During the pandemic as arts organizations shut their doors, my team was able to meet and even surpass fundraising goals while still maintaining consistent messaging and providing superior customer service. After 10 years working with and leading the Telefundraising team I moved to the Met’s Patron Office to head the Young Associates program of 350 annual donors between the ages of 21 and 45 and return that program to pre-pandemic fundraising levels. By creating and hosting dynamic donor events I was able to increase engagement for a crucial audience key to the organization’s long term growth.In January of 2024, I crossed the plaza to join the Major Gifts team of the New York Philharmonic and secure funding for its operations, education initiatives, and community impact programs. Also in that role I’ve had the pleasure of keeping donors abreast of the impact of their giving through the publication of sponsorship reports, impact reports, and quarterly donor newsletters. Throughout my career I have been uplifted by mentors and leaders who helped develop my skills and refine my talents. I’ve also been fortunate to work with donors and colleagues equally dedicated to the profound impact of music on one’s life. I am a strategic thinker who always wants to see the big picture while still paying attention to the details. My energy and dedication to cause helped lead my team through some of the toughest and ever-changing environments, and I am proud to say that both donors and colleagues value me as a thoughtful collaborator. Skills: Team management, development, communications, peer-to-peer texting, donor stewardship, and project management.

Listed skills include Event Planning, Nonprofits, Marketing, Fundraising, and 19 others.