Director of Development

Jan 13

Anticipated Start Date: As Soon As Possible

Description

The Director of Development will be instrumental in realizing this vision by leading efforts to secure critical resources and build lasting partnerships.

Responsibilities

STRATEGIC FUNDRAISING LEADERSHIP

Design and implement a comprehensive multi-year development strategy to increase annual revenue through individual giving, corporate partnerships, government support, foundation grants, and special campaigns.
Lead special initiatives to support Step Afrika!’s growth and new projects, such as annual touring, commissioning new works, and expanding support for arts education programs.
Establish clear fundraising goals and metrics, providing regular progress reports to the Executive Director and Board of Directors.
Serve as a key storyteller and ambassador for Step Afrika! representing the organization at donor meetings, public events, and conferences.

MAJOR GIFTS AND INDIVIDUAL GIVING

Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors capable of six- and seven-figure contributions.
Develop a robust individual giving program, including membership, recurring giving, and planned giving initiatives.
Oversee donor engagement strategies, ensuring personalized outreach and recognition for top supporters.

CORPORATE AND FOUNDATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS

Build and sustain strategic partnerships with corporations and foundations, securing sponsorships and grants to support performances, education programs, and community outreach initiatives.
Prepare compelling grant proposals and sponsorship decks in collaboration with the marketing and program teams.
Ensure timely and accurate grant reporting and sponsor fulfillment.

SPECIAL EVENTS AND CAMPAIGNS

Oversee the planning and execution of signature fundraising events, including the annual gala and donor receptions.
Collaborate with the marketing team to maximize event attendance and visibility, leveraging events to deepen donor engagement and attract new supporters.
Launch and manage special fundraising campaigns, including digital appeals, matching gift challenges, and giving days.

BOARD ENGAGEMENT AND LEADERSHIP

Partner with the Executive Director to recruit and engage Board members in fundraising activities.
Serve as a key liaison to the Development Committee, providing regular updates and supporting their fundraising efforts.
Facilitate Board training on best practices in fundraising and donor stewardship.

TEAM MANAGEMENT AND COLLABORATION

Manage the development function, including staff, consultants, and volunteers, with the opportunity to gradually build a high-performing team as revenue increases.
Foster a collaborative environment with other departments, including marketing, finance, and programming, ensuring alignment on fundraising goals.

Requirements

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Communications, Business, or a related field.
An advanced degree or CFRE certification is a plus.

EXPERIENCE

Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in fundraising, with demonstrated success in major gifts, corporate sponsorships, and grant writing.
Experience in the performing arts or nonprofit cultural organizations is highly preferred.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Proven ability to cultivate and close six- and seven-figure gifts.
Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience supervising and mentoring staff.
Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills, with the ability to inspire and engage diverse audiences.
Proficiency in donor databases (e.g., Salesforce) and fundraising technology.
Knowledge of fundraising trends in the arts and cultural sector.
A passion for the performing arts and a commitment to Step Afrika!’s mission.

Salary Range and Employee Benefits

$100,000 - $125,000, commensurate with experience.

How to Apply for this Job

Apply Now

About the Organization

Step Afrika! is the world’s first professional company dedicated to the African American tradition of stepping. The Company’s mission is to preserve and promote stepping through professional performances and to inspire young people in and out of school through arts education programs emphasizing teamwork, commitment, and discipline.

Step Afrika! was founded in December 1994 by C. Brian Williams, an accomplished stepper who recognized the accomplished connections between stepping and African percussive traditions.

Williams explored this connection with the creation of Step Afrika! in partnership with South African and American artists. Today, Step Afrika! is one of the top ten U.S. African American dance companies, introducing tens of thousands annually to stepping by performing at colleges and theaters worldwide. Step Afrika! serves audiences of all ages and backgrounds, emphasizing African American families with school-aged children.

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