Director of Development

Description

Description:
The Paramount Theater, Charlottesville’s premier nonprofit performing arts venue, located on the historic downtown mall, is seeking a dynamic and experienced individual to join our team as the Director of Development. The Director will serve as a Senior Leadership Team member; lead a team of development professionals; and collaborate with the Board of Directors, Development Committee, and theater colleagues in the implementation of comprehensive fundraising initiatives. The successful candidate will be a strategic innovator, an effective communicator, and a cooperative team player who is passionate about the arts and is engaged with the philanthropic community in Charlottesville and beyond.

Join a fun, fast-paced, goal-oriented, exciting team at The Paramount Theater today! This full-time position includes 5-star benefits and salary based on ability, experience, and education.  Please, no phone calls or recruiters. The Paramount is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The anticipated hire date for this position is 02/01/2024. Applications received by 12/18/2023 will receive priority consideration.

 Responsibilities:

1. Fundraising Plan and Strategy: Lead the Development Team in establishing an Annual Development Plan, executing fundraising strategies, establishing processes and systems to support the sustainability and expansion of the Theater’s mission, and engaging the Board of Directors.
2. Donor Cultivation and Stewardship: Together with the Executive Director, identify and strengthen current and prospective individual stakeholder relationships to build a robust major gifts program, bequest program, and Endowment. Implement effective processes to ensure donor retention and satisfaction. Oversee the creation and management of stewardship packages and proposals with a thorough knowledge of the Theater’s ability to deliver client benefits.
3. Community Advancement: Support the facilitation of the Community Access Program and oversee efforts of the Arts Education Team to secure underwriting for top-quality programming.
4. Annual Gala and Special Events: Coordinate with the Gala Committee to plan and execute a successful Annual Marquee Gala. Oversee other fundraising events, donor receptions, and other engagement activities to cultivate support and enhance the Theater’s visibility.
5. Collaboration: Work closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and other staff members to align fundraising efforts with organizational priorities and mission-oriented goals. Plan, oversee, and ensure the successful execution of annual appeals, direct mail campaigns, and occasional membership drives. Work with the Communications Team to generate revenue through advertisements placed in the Playbill for all seasons.
6. Database Management: Oversee the management of a robust fundraising database, including supporting policies for recording, maintaining, and updating current donor and prospective donor information.
7. Public Relations and Awareness: Collaborate with the Communications Team and Executive Director to develop materials that effectively communicate the Theater’s mission and impact to the philanthropic community and public.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field; Master’s degree or CFRE credential are preferred.
• 7+ years of management experience in fundraising, development, or a related field.
• Proven success in designing and implementing fundraising strategies and effectively leading a team to consistently meet departmental goals.
• Strong personal accountability and ability to manage multiple projects in a proficient manner with a keen attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Experience with donor databases and fundraising software. Proficiency with Tessitura donor database and Microsoft Office Suite is preferred.
• Demonstrated passion for the performing arts and community engagement.