Development Manager

Overview:

Musical Theatre Factory (MTF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping musical theatre artists develop and present new work in a collaborative and supportive atmosphere, free from the pressures of critical or commercial success. MTF centers artists from underrepresented communities and seeks to dismantle oppressive ideologies through its programming and organizational practices to lead us toward collective liberation. As MTF celebrates its 10th anniversary, we are seeking a passionate Development Manager to support our mission by leading and executing innovative fundraising efforts to ensure sustainable growth and impact.

As the organization grows, this position is intended to become full-time. This position is ideal for individuals who are early to mid-career looking to gain experience managing a department and develop innovative and non-traditional approaches to philanthropy that are grounded in principles of equity & emergent strategy.

Position Summary:

The Development Manager will play a pivotal role in securing resources to support MTF’s programs and operations. Working closely with the Executive Leadership Circle (ELC) comprised of the Managing Director, Artistic Director and Director of Community Relations and Communication, this part-time position is responsible for managing and executing the organization’s development strategy. This role is ideal for someone with a deep commitment to supporting underrepresented voices in the arts and a background in nonprofit development or fundraising.

MTF has developed a culture of organization-wide philanthropy, wherein fundraising responsibilities are shared by all staff members; as such, this role is not solely or entirely responsible for all development department activities. This role is intended to focus primarily on managing timelines, building a cohesive strategy, and ensuring the execution of organizational fundraising priorities & goals.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Fundraising Strategy & Implementation
   1. Co-develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising plan in collaboration with the ELC, including annual goals for individual giving, corporate sponsorship, grants, and special campaigns/events.
   2. Tracking progress on goals and adjusting as necessary.
   3. Assist in developing fundraising campaigns, including end-of-year and special project campaigns.
2. Grant Management
   1. Identify, research, and apply for grant opportunities from foundations, government agencies, and other grant-making entities that align with MTF’s mission and programming.
   2. Manage the grant application process, including drafting & editing proposals, managing grant writers when applicable, preparing supporting documentation, and ensuring timely submission.
   3. Track and manage grant reporting requirements, working closely with the ELC to collect program data and compile reports for funders.
3. Donor Relations & Stewardship
   1. Cultivate and manage relationships with current and prospective donors, ensuring regular touchpoints and personalized communications.
   2. Implement donor recognition strategies, including thank-you letters, event invitations, and other engagement efforts to build strong donor relationships.
   3. Co-Develop and manage individual giving initiatives, including MTF’s Wavelength Program and major donor cultivation efforts.
4. Event Planning & Coordination
   1. Support planning and coordination of fundraising events, including logistics, sponsorship solicitation, and donor engagement.
   2. Assist with hosting smaller donor cultivation events and “friend-raisers” in collaboration with MTF’s ELC.
5. Communications & Marketing Support
   1. Collaborate with the Director of Community Relations and Communications & Managing Director to create fundraising content for MTF’s website, social media, newsletters, and other communication channels.
   2. Ensure that all development materials reflect MTF’s mission, values, and commitment to equity and inclusion.
6. Data Management & Reporting
   1. Maintain accurate records of donor and prospect information, donation history, and communications in MTF’s CRM/database (experience with Kindful or similar CRM preferred).
   2. Generate and analyze regular reports on fundraising activities and outcomes to inform strategy and report progress to the leadership team and board.

Qualifications:

• Experience in nonprofit management, arts administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in nonprofit development, fundraising, or a related field, with a demonstrated track record of successful fundraising.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience in grant writing, donor communications, and proposal development.
• Ability to develop and maintain relationships with donors, partners, and stakeholders in alignment with MTF’s values of equity, inclusivity, and community-centric engagement.
• Experience with donor management systems/CRMs (e.g., Kindful, GiveButter, or similar), and proficiency in Google Suite & Monday.com is preferred.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple projects with limited supervision.
• Familiarity with or passion for musical theatre/musical storytelling and commitment to MTF’s mission to uplift underrepresented voices in the arts.
• Commitment to anti-oppression practices, social justice, and equity in the arts.