Scott Podraza

Senior Director of Development @Lyric Opera of Chicago

Chicago, IL, US

Responsible for the leadership, strategy, development, and execution of a comprehensive, state-of-the-art, multi-channel direct-response fundraising program. Oversee the management of two key donor societies, the Friends of Lyric and the Patron Program with colleagues in prospect management, major giving, and planned giving to identify and develop a pipeline of new major donors. Supervise and expand development services processes, including gift processing, acknowledgment, and reporting. Maximize database potential, explore new ecosystem partners, and improve efficiencies in development operations.Ensure the delivery of donor privileges and benefits for Friends and Patrons, while developing and executing strategies that shift focus from transactional to philanthropic motivations for giving, Design and implement new programs in telephone and digital fundraising.Oversee a staff of six and be accountable for the team’s results in direct mail strategy, digital fundraising, telephone fundraising, and other direct-response efforts, as well as gift processing, acknowledgment, and reporting.

Eastern Illinois University

B.A.

Oak Forest High School

Diploma