Director of Development

Position Overview :

The Director of Development (DOD) is a key member of The Washington Ballet's Senior Leadership Team, overseeing all aspects of a comprehensive development program to grow TWB's annual fundraising (currently $5.1m) to $6 million and beyond. The DOD will be a strategic and results-driven professional, responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding major donors, board members, corporate partners, and institutional funders.

Reporting directly to the Executive Director with a strong indirect reporting relationship to the Artistic Director, the DOD will lead the development and execution of fundraising strategies that align with TWB's artistic and business objectives, oversee budget planning and financial strategy, and manage a high-performing development team. The DOD will also serve as TWB's principal major gifts fundraiser, requiring a proven ability to solicit and secure significant contributions. The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills, along with a deep appreciation for the performing arts and a passion for advancing TWB's mission.

Key Responsibilities :

• Foster a culture of philanthropy that fully engages various constituencies and stakeholders in a deep and meaningful way.
• Produce a comprehensive annual development plan that sets goals and budgets for individual and institutional giving programs.
• Serve as principal gift officer to a select high-net-worth group of donors and prospects.
• Partner with the Executive Director, Artistic Director, Board Development Committee, Development Team, and others to develop and execute strategies to increase individual major gifts, planned gifts, corporate sponsors, institutional funding, and government support.
• Actively work to build donor pipeline for corporate, foundation, and individual giving.
• Develop and refine the systems and processes that will support the infrastructure for increased fundraising activities.
• Work with the Executive Director and Board leadership to create and lead major fundraising campaigns to support Ballet strategic priorities, including the staffing and management of an anticipated capital campaign.

Qualifications :

Application Instructions

Please submit your resume and cover letter. We encourage all interested applicants to apply even if they do not feel they meet 100% of the qualifications. We are dedicated to considering a wide array of candidates including those with non-traditional backgrounds and experience in the performing arts. Please use your cover letter to elaborate on what you hope to bring to this role and how your prior experience has prepared you for this opportunity.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Washington Ballet is dedicated to fostering a welcoming environment in all aspects of its work, from artistic performances and ballet education to community engagement and workplace culture. We prioritize presenting artists and perspectives that reflect the dynamism of DC. Through our community partnerships and campus locations, we intentionally bring opportunities to communities throughout the DMV, ensuring fairness in hiring and employment practices.

Benefits