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Development Director
Deal Park, NJ
Axelrod Performing Arts Center
Full Time
Posted September 09, 2024
The Axelrod Performing Arts Center (APAC), a leading and rapidly growing multi-disciplinary arts organization dedicated to fostering artistic excellence and cultural diversity, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Director of Development. This senior leadership position is responsible for planning, developing, and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy to support APAC's mission and expanding programs. As the Director of Development, you will play a critical role in scaling fundraising activities and building a development team to match the growth of our organization.
Duties and Responsibilities
Key ResponsibilitiesFundraising Strategy and Execution
• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan that includes major gifts, annual giving, planned giving, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, special events, and capital campaigns.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors, including individuals, corporations, foundations, and government agencies.
• Manage and grow a portfolio of major gift prospects, ensuring effective and meaningful donor engagement and communication.
• Scale fundraising activities and resources as the organization grows, ensuring that the development program meets the evolving needs of APAC.
Donor Relations and Stewardship
• Build and maintain strong relationships with current and prospective donors, sponsors, and partners.
• Oversee donor recognition programs, ensuring that all donors are appropriately thanked and acknowledged.
• Create and manage programs that encourage ongoing donor involvement and increase donor retention and loyalty.
Corporate and Individual Sponsorships
• Develop and execute strategies to secure corporate sponsorships and individual gifts to support APAC’s programs and initiatives.
• Prepare and present sponsorship proposals and grant applications, tailoring them to meet the specific interests and priorities of potential funders.
• Board Governance and Coordination:
• Assist the Board of Directors in establishing and maintaining high-functioning governance structures, including the development of bylaws, policies, and procedures.
• Plan and coordinate with the Board Secretary to create and manage the board calendar, ensuring that all board meetings, committee meetings, and key events are scheduled and documented effectively.
• Provide strategic guidance to the Executive Committee and support board members in fulfilling their fundraising responsibilities.
Board and Staff Collaboration
• Work closely with the Executive Committee and Executive Artistic Director to engage them in fundraising efforts and to leverage their networks for prospecting and donor engagement.
• Collaborate with senior staff to align fundraising activities with organizational goals and priorities.
• Provide regular reports to the Executive Artistic Director and Board on fundraising progress, challenges, and opportunities.
• Event Planning and Management:
• Lead the planning and execution of special fundraising events, including annual galas, benefit performances, and donor cultivation events.
• Work with event committees, vendors, and volunteers to ensure the success of fundraising events, maximizing revenue and donor engagement.
Grant Writing and Management
• Identify and pursue grant opportunities from foundations, corporations, and government agencies.
• Write and submit compelling grant proposals and reports, ensuring compliance with all grant requirements and deadlines.
• Track and manage grant progress, reporting on outcomes to funders and the Executive Artistic Director.
• Marketing and Communications:
• Collaborate with the marketing team to develop and implement fundraising communications, including appeals, newsletters, and online campaigns.
• Ensure that the organization’s brand and mission are effectively communicated in all fundraising materials.
Requirements
Education and Experience• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in fundraising, preferably within the performing arts or non-profit sector.
• Proven track record of securing major gifts and managing successful fundraising campaigns.
Skills and Competencies
• Strong understanding of fundraising principles, strategies, and ethics.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and inspire donors, board members, and staff.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and execute complex fundraising plans.
• Highly organized, with strong project management skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in fundraising software and CRM systems (e.g., Raiser’s Edge, Salesforce, e-Tapestry, etc.).
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Capacity to scale development activities and manage growth within the department.
Personal Attributes
• Passion for the performing arts and commitment to the mission of Axelrod Performing Arts Center.
• Energetic, entrepreneurial, and results-oriented, with a strong sense of integrity and professionalism.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
How To Apply
Application Process
• To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in the position to Jess Levy, jlevy@axelrodartscenter.org.
• The start date of the position is October 1, but the position will remain open until filled.
Salary Range - $65000-$90000
Deadline: Sep 30, 2024
Email: jlevy@axelrodartscenter.com