The Grammy Award-winning Washington Chorus is currently seeking a Development Director to lead their fundraising efforts and cultivate relationships with new and existing donors. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of success in fundraising within the arts sector. Strong communication and organizational skills are a must, as well as a passion for music and belief in the positive impact of choral singing in the community. The Development Director will report to the Deputy Director and work closely with the Executive Director, Artistic Director, Board of Directors, and the Development Committee. The position offers flexibility in terms of remote work, as well as a competitive salary and benefits package. If you have experience in fundraising and a love for music, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
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Job Description
The Development Director at The Washington Chorus will have several key responsibilities. They will design and implement individual giving campaigns, manage major donor portfolios, engage board and committee members, seek advancement opportunities, and administer sponsorship opportunities and special events.
In terms of designing and implementing individual giving campaigns, the Development Director will be tasked with creating annual and long-term development plans that focus on meeting or exceeding budgeted contributed income goals. They will also work to diversify the donor base by implementing targeted, deadline-driven individual giving campaigns through various channels such as print, email, phone, and social media.
Managing major donor portfolios will be another important aspect of the role. The Development Director will oversee the cultivation of relationships with all major donors, both personally and through delegation to staff and trustees. They will maintain detailed records to develop the donor pipeline and effectively engage with constituents.
Engaging board and committee members is another area of responsibility for the Development Director. They will serve as the staff liaison to the Board’s Development Committee, communicating fundraising efforts and managing committee assignments.
Seeking advancement opportunities will also be an important part of the role. The Development Director will oversee stewardship and acknowledgement standards, ensuring they align with the organization’s core values. They will also identify and develop underutilized areas for support, such as planned giving, corporate gifts, and new donor acquisition models.
Lastly, the Development Director will administer sponsorship opportunities and special events. They will work to build compelling mission-aligned opportunities for program sponsorship packages and manage donor cultivation, stewardship, and fundraising events throughout the season.
Qualifications
To be considered for the position, candidates should have 3-5 years of fundraising experience, preferably in the performing arts or with non-profits. They should have a proven track record of success in annual giving, major giving, event planning, and communications.
The Development Director should be a self-starter with the ability to think strategically and tactically. Strong writing, editing, and communications skills are essential for the role. Additionally, proficiency with database CRM systems and spreadsheets is required, with familiarity with the Salesforce/PatronManager platform being a plus.
A college degree or equivalent experience is required for this position.
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Reporting Relationships
The Development Director will report to the Deputy Director and work closely with the Executive Director, Artistic Director, the Board of Directors, and the Development Committee.
Work Location
The work location for the Development Director will be 945 G Street NW, #211, Washington, DC 20001.
Salary and Benefits
The annual salary for the Development Director position is $85,000-$95,000. The role also offers flexible paid time off, including all federal holidays and a two-week summer and winter holiday office closure. The position allows for partial remote work and offers a flexible work schedule.
Additionally, the organization provides 100% employer-paid health, dental, and vision insurance coverage. Free concert tickets to each TWC-produced performance are also included, along with organization-paid professional development and training opportunities tailored to staff members’ needs. After one year of employment, 401k matching is available.
About The Washington Chorus
The Washington Chorus is a Grammy Award-winning symphonic chorus that is widely recognized as a cultural leader in the nation’s capital. With its superb artistry and performances of the entire range of the choral repertoire, the chorus presents an annual series at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and regularly performs at the invitation of the National Symphony Orchestra. The chorus also appears annually at the Music Center at Strathmore in Maryland and Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts in Virginia.
Under the leadership of Artistic Director Eugene Rogers, The Washington Chorus aims to create transformative musical experiences that bring people together through the joy of choral music. The organization envisions an inclusive community where choral music connects, reflects, and inspires everyone.
How to Apply
To apply for the position of Development Director, interested candidates should email a cover letter, resume, and any development portfolio materials (optional) to Anthony Salvi-Exner at anthony@thewashingtonchorus.org. Cover letters should be responsive to the mission of The Washington Chorus and the responsibilities and qualifications presented in the job posting. References will be requested from applicants of interest. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The Washington Chorus welcomes candidates of all backgrounds, races, religious affiliations, ages, sexual identities, and physical abilities. The organization is committed to inclusivity in the workplace.
