GAGE MISSION:
Guided by the belief that artists are made, not born, Gage strives to educate, enrich and engage artists and the community in the visual arts. Gage offers instruction in the principles of drawing, painting and sculpting and is dedicated to helping students of all ages and skill levels realize themselves as artists in contemporary society.
GAGE VISION:
Gage Academy of Art will be a national leader in fine art instruction and be committed to advancing the Seattle visual arts community.
POSITION OVERVIEW:
Gage seeks an experienced development professional with a strong interest in supporting the vision of the school while working with a team of dedicated colleagues committed to its cultural mission.
Reporting to, and in partnership with, the Executive Director (ED), the Development Director (DD) will lead the overall fundraising efforts of the school. The DD is in charge of the creation and execution of the Annual Development Plan, with the support of the ED, a staff of 3 [(Special Events/Appeal Manager (FT), Grant Writer (PT) and Development Assistant (PT)], the Development Committee and a peer leadership team comprised of the Communications Director, Financial Director, Adult Program Manager and Youth Program Manager. The DD also interacts with the Gage Board of Trustees.
At this time, Gage has an annual operating budget of $2M with a 75/25% earned to "unearned" revenues ratio. Gage anticipates doubling its donation base in the next five years, and is looking for a fundraising professional with the wisdom, grace and vision to help the school meet its long-term development goals. Gage receives support/donations from: the Board of Trustees; generous individuals; arts-focused government agencies; local & national foundations and corporations; and through two major fundraising events a year.
The DD position is full-time, 40 hours/week, exempt.
Specific Responsibilities in Prioritized Order:
1. Development Strategy -- Meeting Annual Development Goals
Work closely with ED to establish Annual Development Budget that supports the ongoing operational needs and upcoming short- and long-term strategic goals of the school.
2. Major Giving -- Cultivate & Steward Donors
Work closely with ED and Gage trustees to manage consistent stewardship of major donors; work with Development Committee to develop ongoing cultivation plan for donor prospects.
3. Fundraising Events
Work with Curator, and supervise Special Events Manager in the successful planning and execution of two major Gage fundraising events -- Gage Collector's Gala (March) & Best of Gage (June) -- as well as other friend- and fund-raising hospitality events such as lunches, dinners and receptions throughout the year for donors, students and volunteers.
4. Annual Fund Appeal -- Direct Mail Campaigns
Plan and supervise two direct mail appeals annually to donor prospects, new students and past Annual Fund donors in stratified mailings through printed and e-materials.
5. Administration -- Data Entry & Donor Recognition
Supervise Development Assistant with the upkeep and correct filing of all donor record-keeping and thank-you acknowledgements.
6. Grants & Sponsorships -- Corporate & Foundation
Following an annual plan, work with Grant Writer to research, complete, record and report successful grant applications; solicit local businesses for in-kind donations and sponsorship support of Gage events. Guarantee that all promised benefits are met.
7. Volunteer Coordination
Oversee Volunteer Coordinator and Special Events Manager to guarantee that volunteers are engaged and acknowledged in order to meet the development goals for the organization.
8. Planned Giving
Work with ED and Gage Trustees on long-term legacy planning projects per Gage Strategic Plan.
9. Supervision
Oversee and manage Special Events/Appeals Manager, Grant Writer and Development Assistant, including annual reviews. The DD hires all new development personnel with ED.
Professional Experience:
• Proven experience/education managing a complex fundraising program, people & budgets
• Ability to work in hands-on team environment with limited resources
• Computer literate with fundraising software, plus Word, Access & Excel
• Successful track record of personally identifying, cultivating and soliciting individual donors, corporations and foundations
• Record of measurable results in organizing and implementing development activities
• Bachelor's degree with fine art background preferred
Personal Qualities:
• Committed and enthusiastic about the Gage mission and programs
• Highly resourceful & flexible; energetic and focused
• Strategist adept at planning, prioritizing, multi-tasking and following through
• Team builder with strong skills in management and leadership
• Straightforward, self-motivated and diplomatic
• Willing to work hands-on developing and executing fundraising activities
• Highly organized and detail-oriented
Reviews:
• New employees reviewed after three and six months
• Performance reviews scheduled annually
To apply for the position:
• Submit a cover letter, resume & 3 references to Pamela Belyea, Executive Director. No calls please.
• Submission closes Monday, June 18, 2012. Hire date: August 1, 2012
- Location: North Capitol Hill
- Compensation: Compensation commensurate with experience. Full benefits package, including reti
- This is at a non-profit organization.
- Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.
- Please, no phone calls about this job!
- Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests.
