Director of Development
POSITION OVERVIEW
As the Director of Development, you will play a crucial role in building the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra's capacity for the future. Responsibilities include planning and implementing fundraising activities such as annual fund drives, corporate sponsorships, endowment and planned giving, future capital campaigns, grant applications, and new initiatives. Working closely with the Executive Director, you will determine goals and budgets for fundraising activities and seek additional funding opportunities. In addition, you will establish and strengthen relationships with grant-making foundations, corporations, and government agencies while supervising staff and volunteers in executing fundraising initiatives. You will also serve as an advisor to and member of the LSO's Development Committee.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Develop and implement, in partnership with the Executive Director and Development Committee, long and short-term fundraising plans that will meet ongoing institutional financial needs and future growth, establishing goals and strategies for all fundraising activities.
Identify, cultivate, and solicit major gift prospects and corporate sponsorship support.
Manage the LSO’s annual fund and special campaigns throughout the season.
Responsible for the timely and effective execution of benefits to donors and sponsors at all levels.
Manage and update donor database using the LSO’s CRM system.
Research, develop, implement, and document a systematic approach to donor lists, laying the groundwork for the cultivation, engagement, stewardship, and recognition opportunities for all donors & sponsors.
Collaborate with the Director of Programs to monitor and assist in all grant submissions; maintain familiarity with foundations and government agencies that support the arts; research new grant opportunities; ensure an accurate grant calendar; and assist in required final reporting.
Collaborate with the Marketing Committee to assist and oversee the development and production of all materials used to support the LSO’s development efforts, including fundraising collateral materials.
Work with the Chair of the Development Committee to organize and facilitate committee meetings and assist with appropriate reporting to the Board and Executive Committees.
Arrange and participate in development meetings between appropriate LSO representatives (staff, Music Director, and board) and prospective donors.
Collaborate with the Executive Director, Board President, and Governance Committee to ensure a strong pipeline of prospective Development Committee members who will help build the diversity, skillset, and fundraising capacity of the organization.
Serve as a visible and engaged public representative of the Lancaster Symphony; attend community events, receptions, and all LSO concerts to further steward current and potential donors.
QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, with at least 4 years of experience working in a successful non-profit development office.
2+ years of previous experience in a leadership role preferred.
Thorough knowledge of development department functions, including experience identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donor relationships.
A proven record of cultivating prospects, making in-person asks, and securing 5+ figure gifts is preferred.
A proven record of managing all aspects of a non-profit’s annual fund, including board giving, major gifts, broad-base (direct response) giving, foundation grants, corporate sponsorships, and government funding.
Impeccable oral/written communication skills.
A working knowledge of CRM systems (Patron Manager, Tessitura, or similar).
ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE:
An understanding of the vital role the performing arts play in a vibrant community.
Experience in developing and executing strategic development plans, fundraising appeals, and events.
Working knowledge of tax laws related to charitable contributions and planned giving experience is a plus.
Experience working with volunteers, along with strong social and interpersonal skills.
Strategic thinking, relationship-building skills, collaboration, and attention to detail.
Ability to communicate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds & experiences and the ability to receive and give supportive feedback to foster equity, inclusion, and belonging in working relationships.
Must be able to work evenings and weekends as needed based on the LSO’s concert calendar.
SALARY AND BENEFITS
$55,000 – $65,000 annual salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Monthly benefit allowance.
Flexible work schedule, with the ability to set office hours and work from home as needed.
Competitive PTO
HOW TO APPLY
This position will remain open until filled. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and continue until the appropriate candidate is identified.
Please send a cover letter that outlines your interest & qualifications and a resume to search@lancastersymphony.org.
Questions can also be directed to search@lancastersymphony.org. No calls, please.
ABOUT OUR ORCHESTRA
Now is an exciting time to join the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra family. With a legacy dating back to 1947, we are one of Lancaster's most enduring performing arts organizations, dedicated to delivering outstanding musical experiences and nurturing a love for symphonic music across south-central Pennsylvania. Our impact reaches over 15,000 Lancastrians of all ages annually through 28 concerts and 10 education and outreach programs designed to engage and enrich our community.
As Lancaster's professional symphony orchestra, we've recently appointed a dynamic new Music Director and moved to the state-of-the-art Gardner Theatre. Our recent achievements include a record-breaking season with seven sold-out concerts in a single month and a surge in subscription sales. This success underscores the community's embrace of our reinvigorated vision. Following a recent rebranding, the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra is poised for continued growth, fostering an atmosphere of excitement and engagement within the community.
We are now uniquely positioned to extend our impact further into the community with the assistance of a dedicated development professional, aiming to strengthen the foundation of our organization for generations to come.
ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY
Nestled in the heart of south-central Pennsylvania, Lancaster embodies a captivating blend of historical charm and a vibrant arts scene—consistently named one of the best places in the country to retire. Surrounded by historic farmland and adorned with architectural gems reflecting its colonial heritage, the city is a testament to the past. Simultaneously, it thrives as a hub for the arts, boasting numerous galleries, performing arts organizations, and performance spaces. This unique blend of history and artistic expression positions Lancaster City as a cultural haven, inviting residents and visitors to immerse themselves in a tapestry of visual and performing arts.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The Lancaster Symphony Orchestra is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion (creed), national origin (ancestry), age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, disability, military status, or any other classification protected by the State and Federal discrimination laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to: recruitment and hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, transfer, compensation, and training. The Lancaster Symphony Orchestra strictly prohibits any form of unlawful employee harassment or discrimination. Retaliation will not be tolerated; therefore, no employee shall interfere with an individual's ability to perform their expected job duties, coerce, or conspire to cause a dismissal or resignation of another employee because of illegal, discriminatory factors. The Lancaster Symphony Orchestra is committed to providing an inclusive, equitable environment and enjoyable symphonic experience for all staff members, patrons, volunteers, sponsors, and donors.