Director of Development

AVA Gallery and Art Center cultivates an openness of space and mind to inspire, nurture, and showcase the artistic spirit. AVA (Alliance for the Visual Arts) serves its mission by maintaining powerful exhibitions, vibrant artist studios, and offering educational programming for artists of all ages, abilities, and income levels. With an emphasis on building community, AVA also hosts special events that foster interaction between artists, supporters of the arts, and the public. 

POSITION SUMMARY:  
AVA’s Director of Development works collaboratively with AVA’s Executive Director, Board of Directors, staff members, and volunteers to develop and implement a comprehensive development strategy aligned with AVA’s short- and long-term strategic goals.  The Director of Development reports to the Executive Director and supervises a full-time Outreach Coordinator and part-time Grant Writer.  This is a full-time salaried position, exempt from overtime pay, with a competitive salary and benefits package.  

Key Responsibilities:

• In concert with the Executive Director and Board of Directors, develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan to meet the organization’s annual revenue goals and long-term strategic goals.
• The Development Director, together with the Executive Director, are responsible for developing and implementing fundraising strategies and targets. 
• Identify, cultivate, and steward all current and prospective donors.
• Identify and cultivate corporate and foundation donors.  Secure corporate sponsors for exhibitions and programs. 
• Develop grant proposals to secure funding from corporations, private foundations, and government entities.
• Manage the annual fund drive, capital campaign, and other unique campaigns.
• Work with staff members, the Development and Membership Committee, and volunteers to develop strategies and protocols for building support through AVA’s special events, membership and volunteer programs, annual fund, and visitor relations.
• Plan and execute special events that engage donors and raise funds for the organization.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director, Communication and Marketing Coordinator, and other relevant staff to develop and execute effective donor communications and marketing materials, including print and digital media.
• Manage a full-time Outreach Coordinator and part-time Grant Writer, providing guidance, training, and support as needed.
• Monitor and analyze fundraising data to evaluate performance and adjust strategies as needed. 
• Report monthly to the Board of Directors and the Development and Membership Committee.
• Participates in the budget process and stays aware of the current budget as it applies to development, accounting for any variances regularly.

Desired Qualifications:

• B.A. required, M.A. a plus
• Five or more years of development/fundraising experience
• Effective leadership and management skills
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Experience using ALTRU or similar database and proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong administrative, reporting, and record-keeping skills
• Available to work evenings and weekends for events and meetings and to travel locally and regionally.
• Deep commitment to the organization’s mission and values

Benefits include vacation, holiday, and sick time.