Development Director

Position Overview

Joy Engine is seeking a dynamic and imaginative Development Director to lead and grow our fundraising efforts. This role will work closely with the Executive Director to build a sustainable funding strategy that supports the organization’s continued growth and impact.

The ideal candidate brings both strategic fundraising expertise and a creative mindset. They are energized by relationship-building, deeply connected to the arts and cultural community, and excited to explore unconventional approaches to funding and partnerships.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy & Execution (35%)

• Develop and implement a comprehensive annual development plan, including individual giving, corporate sponsorships, grants, and events
• Set and achieve fundraising goals aligned with organizational growth
• Identify and pursue new revenue streams, including creative and nontraditional funding opportunities
• Create and manage donor database management system, tracking, and reporting
• Monitor fundraising performance and provide regular updates to leadership
• Ensure best practices in donor stewardship and compliance
• Relationship Cultivation & Management (35%)
• Cultivate, steward, and grow relationships with donors, sponsors, and community partners
• Leverage an existing network within the arts, philanthropic, and business communities
• Partner with the Executive Director and Board to engage and expand donor networks
• Build on existing programming to engage current and potential donors

Grants & Institutional Funding (30%)

• Identify, write, and manage grant proposals and reports
• Build and maintain relationships with foundations and public funding agencies

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in fundraising, development, or a related field
• Proven track record of meeting or exceeding fundraising goals
• Strong network within Milwaukee or a comparable arts and cultural community
• Experience with donor cultivation, major gifts, sponsorships, and grants
• Excellent communication and storytelling skills

What sets you apart:

• A creative, entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to think beyond traditional fundraising models
• Genuine passion for public art, artists, and community impact
• Comfort operating in a growing, evolving nonprofit environment

Working Style & Traits

• Collaborative and relationship-driven
• Self-directed and proactive
• Creative thinker with strong execution skills
• Adaptable and open to experimentation

Flexible work environment with access to a creative, community-centered workspace, 80 hours PTO plus 7 paid Holidays, Retirement Plan with match, and the opportunity to help shape and grow a creative, evolving organization that values initiative, fresh ideas, and autonomy.