Development Director

The Development Director leads MBT’s comprehensive fundraising efforts to generate the philanthropic support necessary to advance our mission and sustain the theatre for generations to come. This role is deeply rooted in relationship-building, community presence, and local engagement, while also requiring strong strategic leadership and operational oversight.

As a member of the MBT Leadership Team, the Development Director works closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, donors, businesses, and community partners to shape and implement a multi-year development strategy that reflects both organizational priorities and realistic fundraising goals.

This position is ideal for an experienced development professional who enjoys being visible in the community, cultivating long-term relationships, and leading a collaborative, mission-driven fundraising program.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategic Planning

• Serve on the MBT Leadership Team and contribute to organizational planning and decision-making
• Collaborate with the Board and staff to identify short-term (1–3 years) and long-term (4–10 years) resource needs, ensuring fundraising expectations are realistic and aligned
• Develop, update, and implement a multi-year development plan that includes:
  • Retention and growth of existing individual, corporate, foundation, and government support
  • Identification, cultivation, and stewardship of new supporters
  • Clear revenue goals, expense budgets, and measurable outcomes
• Set and achieve annually approved development income and expense goals

Team Leadership and Board Engagement

• Lead and support a high-performing development team
• Supervise Development staff, including the Development Specialist, Corporate Development Specialist, Annual Giving Manager, and Development Events Coordinator
• Partner with the Executive Director and Board President to actively engage Board members in fundraising and donor stewardship
• Attend all Board and Finance Committee meetings
• Plan and lead Development Committee meetings in collaboration with Committee Chair
• Provide ongoing training and support to staff and volunteers so they can confidently serve as ambassadors for MBT

Development Program and Community Engagement

• Manage a personal portfolio of major donors and conduct in-person solicitations up to $100,000
• Cultivate strong, long-term relationships with individual supporters through regular communication and engagement
• Develop and grow the Encore Society (planned and estate giving), including donor outreach and supporting materials
• Maintain a visible presence at MBT performances, events, and community gatherings as a representative of organizational leadership
• Lead planning and execution of fundraising events, from small donor gatherings to large-scale galas
• Strengthen relationships with local and regional businesses, leading sponsorship, advertising, and corporate support efforts
• Build and maintain strong relationships with foundations and granting agencies, collaborating with staff and leadership to secure funding

Operations and Reporting

• Oversee development systems, policies, and procedures to ensure best practices
• Ensure accurate and effective use of the development CRM database
• Prepare and distribute monthly reports tracking progress toward income/expense goals
• Foster a culture of collaboration, transparency, and mutual respect across staff and Board relationships

Qualifications

Required:

• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in philanthropy or development
• Experience making in-person donor solicitations of up to $100,000
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Experience working with diverse professional, cultural, and social communities
• Strong presentation, negotiation, project management, and problem-solving skills
• Passion for the arts and community-centered cultural organizations
• High level of personal and professional integrity
• Ability to manage a CRM database and conduct donor and prospect research

Preferred:

• Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential
• 3 or more years of supervisory experience
• Experience in a management-level or senior organizational role
• Ability to both oversee and directly execute development activities as needed
• Experience recruiting, training, and leading volunteers

Work Schedule: This position typically works Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5:30pm, with frequent evening and weekend hours required for performances, events, and donor engagement. Flexible scheduling is encouraged. Local travel is required.

Supervisor: Executive Director

Classification: Regular, Full-time, Exempt/Salaried, Benefits eligible

Salary Range: $90,000 to $120,000 (DOE)

How to Apply:

Please submit the following materials via email to: jill.vanderyacht@mountbakertheatre.com with the subject line “Development Director Application”. Position will be open until filled.

Resume outlining relevant professional experience.

Cover Letter describing your interest in the position and alignment with MBT’s mission.

Reasonable accommodation

is available for applicants with disabilities. To request assistance during the

application process, contact jill.vanderyacht@mountbakertheatre.com.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Mount Baker Theatre (MBT) is an equal-opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are valued for their skills, experience, and unique perspectives. MBT makes all employment decisions based on merit and qualifications. Discrimination or harassment based on any legally protected characteristic is strictly prohibited.

Pre-employment contingencies include professional reference checks and a pre-employment background check.

BENEFITS: Quality benefits package includes health insurances (medical, dental, vision), life & disability, vacation, sick leave, retirement, and all other applicable benefits available.