Summary
The Director of Development is responsible for planning, managing, and executing the fundraising and development activities of the SSO. Working closely with the President, Board of Directors, and other volunteers and staff colleagues, the Development Director is the key driver of the organization’s efforts to generate revenues in support of its programs and mission. The Development Director’s purview includes major gifts, individual and business annual funds, corporate giving, sponsorships, and planned giving; government and foundation grants; special events.
This is a full-time exempt position, reports to the President and supervises the Box Office Manager & Development Associate and potential development interns.
Responsibilities – Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Department Management
- Oversee and ensure maintenance and deployment of reliable and accurate donor records and database with the Development Associate
- Ensure the production of accurate and regular reporting for all development activities along with the Development Associate
- Plan and coordinate all development activities and communications
- Develop and manage collateral materials including cases for support, sponsorship materials and annual fund materials
- Develop and manage department budget, collaborating with Finance Director on budget projections and accounting for expenses and income
Individual Giving
- Develop Annual Fund Strategy: Create and implement a comprehensive strategy for the annual fund, focusing on major donors. Set fundraising goals and develop plans to achieve them.
- Identify and Cultivate Major Donors: Identify individuals with the capacity to make significant contributions. Cultivate relationships through personalized engagement, such as meetings, events, and regular communication.
- Solicit Major Gifts: Develop and execute plans for soliciting major gifts, including personalized proposals and presentations. Work closely with the Executive Director and Board members in solicitation efforts.
- Manage Donor Recognition Programs: Develop and oversee programs to recognize and thank major donors, ensuring they feel appreciated and valued. This can include naming opportunities, exclusive events, and public acknowledgments.
- Stewardship and Donor Retention: Ensure that major donors are appropriately stewarded, with regular updates on how their contributions are being used and the impact they are making. Develop strategies for donor retention and increased giving over time.
Corporate and Sponsor Relationships
- Identify and Cultivate Sponsorship Opportunities: Research and identify potential corporate sponsors that align with the symphony’s mission and audience. Cultivate relationships with key decision-makers in these organizations.
- Develop Sponsorship Packages: Create compelling sponsorship packages that provide value to sponsors, including branding opportunities, event participation, and exclusive experiences.
- Negotiate Sponsorship Agreements: Negotiate terms and agreements with sponsors to ensure mutually beneficial partnerships. Secure long-term commitments when possible.
- Maintain Sponsor Relationships: Act as the primary point of contact for sponsors, ensuring their needs are met and they receive all agreed-upon benefits. Maintain strong, ongoing relationships to encourage renewal and increased support.
- Monitor and Report on Sponsorship Outcomes: Track the performance and impact of sponsorships, providing detailed reports to sponsors on the outcomes of their support and the benefits received.
Leadership
- Drive the strategic and tactical planning and execution of activities to achieve revenue goals and strengthen community support
- Support board fundraising efforts to ensure effective communication, collaboration, and successful execution of their development activities
- Provide and apply expertise to establish best practice and highly effective fundraising policies, systems, and procedures
- Work in collaboration with President, Music Director, and board members in direct solicitations
- Supervise fundraising activities of and motivate all development committee members and volunteers
- Provide advice and leadership to staff and volunteers in the execution of fundraising initiatives
- Represent the SSO at community events to build relationships and support
- Attend all SSO events and concerts
Education
A bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as nonprofit management, social sciences, financial management, business, or marketing
Experience
At least five years of experience in fundraising, business development, sales, or a similar position.
Other skills
Familiarity with nonprofit management, sales and marketing strategies, annual fund, major giving, event planning, excellent customer service, attention to detail, and collaboration skills.
- Experience with all Microsoft Tools
- Project management software
- CRM / Ticketing Software
Send resume/cover letter to info@springfieldsymphony.org