Development Director

The Development Director is a key member of the leadership team, responsible for planning, implementing, and managing fundraising strategies to support the organization’s mission and programs. This role focuses on cultivating and stewarding relationships with individual donors, corporate sponsors, foundations, and government funders to secure financial support for artistic programming, community outreach, and operational needs. The ideal candidate is a dynamic storyteller, relationship-builder, strategic thinker, skilled communicator, with a love for the arts and a proven track record in fundraising.

Principle Duties and Responsibilities

• Fundraising Strategy and Execution:

o Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan, including annual giving campaigns, major gifts, corporate sponsorships, grants, and special events.

o Identify, cultivate, and solicit donors and prospects to build a robust donor pipeline.

o Oversee donor database management (AudienceView) to track contributions, generate reports, and analyze fundraising metrics.

o Secure grants by researching opportunities, writing compelling proposals, and managing reporting requirements for foundations and government agencies.

• Donor Relations and Stewardship:

o Build and maintain strong relationships with donors, sponsors, and community stakeholders through personalized communications, events, and recognition programs.

o Implement moves management strategies to deepen donor engagement and increase giving levels. Drive portfolio of 100 donors. Convert annual donors into major donors.

o Coordinate donor appreciation events, such as receptions, or behind-the-scenes experiences with artists.

• Event Management:

o Plan and execute fundraising events, such as galas, benefit performances, or community fundraisers, to engage donors and raise funds.

o Coordinate logistics, including venue selection, vendor management, and volunteer support.

o Develop event budgets and ensure cost-effectiveness while maximizing revenue.

o Collaborate with marketing and programming teams to align events with the organization’s artistic mission and brand.

• Collaboration and Leadership:

o Work closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and development committee to leverage networks, set fundraising goals and report on progress.

o Train Board and Staff on the discovery and solicitation processes.

o Partner with marketing and communications teams to create compelling fundraising materials, including appeals, newsletters, and social media campaigns.

o Supervise development contractors, interns, or volunteers as needed.

Distribution of Work by Percentage:

• Fundraising Strategy – 25%
• Donor Relations and Stewardship – 50%
• Event Management – 10%
• Collaboration and Leadership – 15%

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, arts administration, communications, business, or a related field; Master’s degree or CFRE certification a plus.
• Experience:

o 5+ years of progressively responsible professional fundraising experience, preferably in a nonprofit arts or cultural organization.

o Demonstrated success in managing donor relations, securing individual gifts, corporate sponsorships, and grants.

o Experience with donor database software, fundraising metrics, Microsoft Office Suite, and Google Suite.

o Marketing experience a plus.

• Skills and Abilities:

o Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft persuasive proposals and deliver compelling presentations. Comfort with public speaking and networking in diverse settings.

o Strong relationship-building skills, with a donor-centered approach to cultivation and stewardship.

o Proficiency in project management, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

o Knowledge of fundraising best practices and trends in philanthropy, particularly in the arts sector.

• Personal Attributes:

o Passion for the arts, community engagement, and a commitment to the organization’s mission.

o Creative, strategic, and results-oriented mindset.

o Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

o High ethical standards and professionalism in handling sensitive donor information.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with arts organizations, such as theaters, museums, or music programs.
• Familiarity with the local philanthropic community and arts funding landscape.
• Experience with event planning and corporate sponsorships.
• Knowledge of budgeting and financial reporting for nonprofit development programs.

Other Requirements

• The role may require evening and weekend work to attend events, performances, or donor meetings.
• Flexible hybrid or on-site work arrangement; local travel may be required for donor cultivation or grant meetings.
• Standing or sitting for long periods of time.
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

Standard Company Expectations

• Goes beyond normal expectations without compromising the theatre’s Mission, Vision, and Values.
• Demonstrates the ability to be courteous and accountable in all situations.
• Monitors the consistency of the product provided to all guests.
• Works in a friendly, honest, and diligent manner with fellow team members and managers.
• Seeks knowledge from multiple sources and learns from past experiences for future development and growth.
• Strong organizational, time management, and planning skills
• Deals effectively with a wide variety of people
• Effective problem solving and decision making
• Self-motivated leader and strong team player
• Responsible and reliable

To Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their relevant experience and passion for the non-profit sector to David Moore, Executive Director, at david@thefirehousetheatre.com. Please include “Development Director” in the subject line.

The Firehouse Theatre is committed to cultivating a creative environment that is inclusive of all peoples, honoring of cultures and communities, diverse across various layers of the organization, equitable in matters of policy and practice, intentional and thoughtful about building cultural competence, demonstrating our values through our actions and behaviors and supportive of our local community. We welcome applicants of all abilities, ethnicities, gender identities and ages to apply for positions. The Firehouse Theatre is an equal opportunity employer.