Director of Development
The Director of Development is responsible for articulating the mission and vision of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra (ESO) to patrons, donors and the broader community. The role will have primary responsibility for the ESO’s fund development and is responsible for overseeing the creation and implementation of an annual Development Calendar including events, solicitations, and all annual fundraising initiatives. This position oversees the contract work of external RMS, handling print mail campaigns and grant writing. The Director of Development reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer.
Position Supervises:
- Grant-Writer (PT)
Basic Functions of the Position:
- Planning and evaluating fundraising campaigns and all charitable giving activities.
- Managing the organization’s budget and fundraising income programs.
- Identifying and stewarding prospective donors.
- Recruiting and training fundraising staff and volunteer leaders.
- Staying on top of fundraising trends and the non-profit arts community.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in music, arts administration or equivalent experience.
- Minimum 4-5 years of experience in fundraising, resource development preferably with a non-profit organization, and demonstrated success in individual, corporate, foundation, government and Board giving.
Minimum Skills, Knowledge and Experience:
- Understanding of the role of arts in society.
- Ability to articulate the mission vision and brand of Elgin Symphony Orchestra to board, donors, orchestra and public. Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral skills.
- Prepared to devise creative strategies to develop new donors during a transitional time for the arts.
- Ability to be respectful of the diverse cultures of the people served by the ESO and to provide culturally appropriate, competent, and individualized treatment in accordance with each client’s age, gender and gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, religious beliefs, and culture.
- Ability to manage and monitor the progress and cost-effectiveness of fundraising activities.
- Ability to work independently under stress, and successfully handle multiple projects simultaneously.
The Director of Development is expected to work flexible hours, including late weeknight and weekend hours.
Interested candidates should send a resume and cover letter to m.thayer@elginsymphony.org.
Elgin Symphony Orchestra is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
Summer Internships
The ESO is now accepting applications for internships for the 2021 summer season. To apply, please send a resume to info@elginsymphony.org no later than April 30, 2021.
Volunteer Opportunities
If you are interested in joining the Volunteer Program for the 2021-22 season, please complete the 3-page application below. Applications are accepted year-round.
Click here to view Volunteer Application
Please submit the completed application to the Elgin Symphony Orchestra administrative office
Mail: Elgin Symphony Orchestra, 20 DuPage Court, Elgin, IL 60120
Email: boxoffice@elginsymphony.org
Fax: 847-888-0400
ESO Auditions
There are no auditions scheduled at this time. Check back next year!
