Director of Philanthropy

MISSION
The Auditorium Theatre, an Illinois not-for-profit organization, is committed to presenting the finest in international, cultural, community, and educational programming to Chicago and to the continued restoration and preservation of the National Historic Landmark Auditorium Theatre.

COMMITMENT
The Auditorium Theatre thrives on the shared humanity that the performing arts provides. We are at our best when our leadership, partnerships, and the work we present on our stage reflects the world around us and the audiences that walk through our doors. Core to this belief is a commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility. We are dedicated to leveraging the transformative power of the arts to fully become the Theatre for the People.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB 

• Research and identify new donor prospects and collaborate on strategies to help move them through the donor cycle.
• In collaboration with the Chief Development Officer and Chief Executive Officer, build a portfolio of donors and prospects while applying best practices and tools for cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Utilize database and additional resources to conduct research and analysis of prospects and current donors.
• Establish goals in alignment with the development team’s overarching objectives.
• With the Chief Development Officer and the Chief Executive Officer, actively engage and solicit donors and prospects to secure new and renewed gifts and sponsorships.
• Represent the Auditorium at performances and external events with the Chief Development Officer, build a corporate pipeline development strategy and steward relationships with corporations and corporate representatives.
• Ensure effective reporting for major gifts management, and monitor weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual activity to inform strategies and achieve revenue goals.
• Track relationship management activity to include identification, qualifications, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of prospective and current individual donors, as well as any ongoing engagement and follow-up required as circumstances dictate.
• Build fruitful relationships with members of the Auditorium’s Board of Directors.
• Develop creative solutions and thoughtful strategies for augmenting organizational support.
• Provide guidance, assistance, and insight on a variety of departmental initiatives.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

• A skilled fundraiser, communicator, and relationship builder, preferably with a familiarity of Chicago’s cultural landscape.
• Highly motivated team player who enjoys interacting with people, forming relationships, and is energized at he opportunity to act as an advocate for the Auditorium’s mission, vision, and programs.
• Minimum of five years of experience in nonprofit development and fundraising. Seven years or more is preferred.
• Demonstrated success in securing five and six-figure gifts.
• Experience with a variety of nonprofit fundraising events of varying sizes, including smaller receptions and large-scale Galas.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication (written and verbal) skills, capable in their ability to create a compelling reason for support.
• A sincere belief in the Auditorium’s mission, history, and legacy.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and working knowledge of constituent relationship management systems and wealth screening databases.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends and attend performances, events, and networking opportunities, as circumstances require.
• A positive attitude and enthusiastic demeanor are highly valued in candidates for this position.

DUTY AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Research/prospecting for new potential donors
• Research/prospecting for new corporate donors
• Attending events and representing the organization
• General Dpt. engagement, reporting, and support
• Stewarding a portfolio of current donors

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
8-10 YEARS

SALARY RANGE
$75,000 to $95,000

TO APPLY
All candidates must complete an application through Roosevelt University – Roosevelt University Employment Opportunities | Director of Philanthropy

The Auditorium Theatre is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, class, religion, country of origin, political belief, (dis)ability, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, or any factor protected by law. BIPOC candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. This role is an on-site role. Roosevelt University requires all new hires to be compliant with our COVID-19 vaccination policy, found at the COVID-19 website here. All new hires are required to be fully vaccinated
or have a legitimate religious or medical exemption at the time of hire.