Director of Development

Orlando Ballet, a not-for-profit organization, seeks a Director of Development to join its senior staff. The Director of Development will work to devise and execute the overall strategy for the development effort for the entire organization including the professional company, school, and outreach programs. The Development Director will be responsible for leading and managing the areas of individual designated giving, unrestricted annual fund, corporate giving and sponsorships, foundation and government grants, planned giving, in-kind giving, special events, and patron services, as well as providing support for endowment and special project initiatives.

The ideal individual will possess initiative, a collaborative team spirit, excellent written and verbal communications skills, and the ability to handle multiple projects of varying natures simultaneously. Success in this role requires someone who is imaginative, highly self-motivated, and who can work in a self-directed manner. This individual requires an extensive background in fundraising with several years experience working at a senior level in the arts nonprofit sector. Local knowledge is preferred.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Lead and manage the key program areas of individual designated/restricted, unrestricted annual fund, United Arts campaign, corporations, and government, planned giving, special events, and patron services.
Coordinate the solicitation effort for major gifts related to special events across all program areas.
Play a leading role in expanding major donor fund raising by identifying, cultivating, coordinating solicitation and personally soliciting new major donors.
Develop a stewardship plan for recognizing current donors.
Direct major cultivation, relationship-building, and entertaining activity of the Artistic Director and/or Executive Director as necessary to carry out major giving strategy.
Direct cultivation efforts of key Board members and staff to carry out overall solicitation strategy.
Serve as a primary liaison to the Development/Fundraising Committee, preparing assignments, agendas, and priorities.
Coordinate with grant proposal writer to provide support as needed with grant preparation; search for funding opportunities; assist with writing grant applications; and edit draft proposals for accuracy, completeness, and clarity
Oversee all fundraising-related communications including, but not limited to e-newsletters, appeal letters, brochures, and website copy. Coordinate with the Marketing Department in design and production of these vehicles.
Oversee all special events and all efforts to procure contributed goods and services for special events.
Ensure attention to further developing and improving awareness and visibility of Orlando Ballet within philanthropic circles in the community.
Assist, as needed in, crossover Development/Marketing activities.
Ensure that efficient management and operational systems of the highest standard are in place, including: income and expense reporting, optimal use of database for solicitation, income tracking, research and general data on prospects.
Regularly provide income reports and forecasts to Executive Director, Director of Operations, and Director of Finance.
Work with Executive Director, Director of Operations, and Director of Finance in establishing budgets.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Essential Skills and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree required and at least 5 years experience working in a major arts institution as a development professional; at least 2 years in a senior position.
The ability to manage the department’s day-to-day fund raising activity is essential as well as to conceptualize and organize specific initiatives.
Total knowledge of current fund raising practices.
The ability to articulate a well thought-out plan, with clear goals and objectives and then manage program areas to organize and carry out said plan.
Familiarity with developing a strategic plan for soliciting and securing gifts from private and corporate sources
Experience in developing and presenting proposals to prospective sponsors/partners, clients, and/or customers
Demonstrated ability to think strategically and creatively, work well under pressure, and manage details of several concurrent projects
Familiarity with marketing strategies and materials. Ability to assist in the creation and implementation of an effective marketing campaign.
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite of products, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

How to Apply / Contact

To apply, send 1-2 page cover letter outlining aptitude and interest, resume and names/contact information for three professional references via email to kfabian@orlandoballet.org or by mail to 1111 N. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32804. No phone calls please. Orlando Ballet is an equal opportunity employer.