DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Reports to: Empire Arts Center Executive Director

THE ORGANIZATION

Since its rebirth as an arts center in 1998, the Empire Arts Center has become a cultural anchor of historic downtown Grand Forks, welcoming over 30,000 visitors each year. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Empire strives to maintain an exemplary space to support the creative efforts of our community while maintaining its own artistic programming.

THE POSITION

The Development Director is responsible for planning and implementing a comprehensive development program that includes major gifts, corporate and foundation giving, planned giving, special events and grant writing. The successful candidate will work closely with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to develop fundraising goals and strategies. The Empire is a collaborative work environment, so the Development Director will work closely with all staff members including the Managing Artistic Director, and those responsible for marketing, communications, and programming.

JOB DUTIES

● Create an overall strategic development plan which outlines and prioritizes annual goals for each type of fundraising activity, including major and mid-level donors, events, and grants.

● Develop and execute donor engagement and stewardship plans.

● Research and submit applicable grant applications.

● Plan events to attract a pipeline of donors and create awareness of EAC.

● Regularly evaluate strategic plan and track progress toward fundraising goals.

● Lead the development efforts and collaborate with staff to develop strategies for increasing brand awareness and funding.

● Collaborate with the board of directors to engage them in fundraising efforts in a variety of ways that utilize their strengths and connections.

● Work with staff members to create donor impact materials, as well as promotional materials for events and campaigns.

● Use donor management software to evaluate donor statistics, inform donor development programs/activities, and ensure donor recognition strategies are implemented.

● Stay up to date on fundraising trends.

QUALIFICATIONS

Qualified candidates will exhibit a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, willingness to learn new skills, flexibility, excellent communication skills, and an interest in and familiarity with fine arts/performing arts.

Preferred qualifications include:

● Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business administration, or a related field.

● Five (5) years of experience in nonprofit development, with a proven track record of success in major gifts, corporate and foundation giving, and special events.

● Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write compelling donor communications.

● Strong leadership and management skills.

● Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, Board members, and volunteers.

● Experience with donor management tools.

● A deep commitment to the mission and values of the Empire Arts Center.