Director of Development

Overview of Organization

Founded in 1917, the American Theatre Wing (ATW) has spent more than a century advancing theatre and theatre makers, and as a result, advancing our communities and our nation.

ATW is best known for creating and co-producing the Tony Awards, but the breadth of ATW’s work extends much further.  ATW is also home of the OBIE Awards (Off and Off Off Broadway’s highest honor) and a powerful suite of high-impact educational, professional development and media programs that advance theatre making across the nation.  ATW’s programs connect talent with opportunity and help ensure that there will be a diverse and dynamic next generation on the stage, behind the scenes, and in the audience.

Organization website is www.americantheatrewing.org.

ATW is seeking a dynamic fundraising leader who will champion the mission of the American Theatre Wing and motivate staff, Board, and Advisory Committee to work together to secure the resources needed to support ATW’s growing programs.  This role requires a strategic fundraiser who can inspire philanthropy and build lasting relationships with individual donors, foundations, and corporate partners.  The Director of Development will be passionate about ATW’s mission, possess a proven track record of fundraising success, and excel at cultivating a culture of generosity and connection.  This is a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the theatre community at a still precarious time as we emerge from the pandemic, and to also help shape the future of a vital organization that has a long track record of stability and success, but is primed for the next level of growth.

Roles & Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership

Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan to achieve annual revenue goals, which includes individual and institutional funder identification, cultivation and stewardship strategies geared toward growing and deepening relationships with ATW.  Creating an events strategy will be an essential part of the fundraising plan.  That strategy should capitalize on existing events (ATW Gala, Tony Awards, OBIE Awards, Jonathan Larson Grants event, etc.), and also contemplate new events that advance and grow relationships with donors, potential donors, and other important partners.  Work closely with President & CEO and strategically engage Board and Advisory Committee in achieving goals.

Team Management

Lead, mentor, and inspire a high-performing Development team of staff (2) and consultants (1).  Set clear performance expectations and provide ongoing feedback and support.  Foster a collaborative and results-oriented team culture.

Donor/Funder Engagement

Build and maintain strong relationships with existing and prospective donors.  Develop personalized cultivation and stewardship plans.  Ensure timely and effective communication with donors and supporters.

Special Events Development/Management

Oversee the development, planning, and execution of all special fundraising and cultivation events. 

Grant Management

Identify and pursue grant opportunities from foundation and government agencies.  Oversee the preparation and submission of grant proposals and reports.  Ensure compliance with grant requirements and reporting deadlines.

Communications and Marketing

Collaborate with Communications (PR & Digital) to develop compelling messaging and materials to support fundraising efforts.  Leverage digital and social media platforms to engage donors and promote the Organization’s impact.

Financial Management

Develop and manage the Development department’s budget.  Track and analyze fundraising performance metrics.  Prepare regular reports on fundraising progress and results.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and 5-7 years of progressively responsible experience in development.
• Track record of development success and accomplishments.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• A high degree of maturity, professionalism, and social and emotional intelligence.
• Gifted relationship builder.
• Availability to work nights and weekends as required.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel.
• Experience using Salesforce, MailChimp, and/or similar technical systems preferred.

Application Instructions

Application Deadline:

To apply, please email a cover letter and resume as a single attachment to:

job@americantheatrewing.org with the subject line Director of Development Position. 

Please note that only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

The American Theatre Wing is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer.  We are deeply committed to building a workplace were diversity, equity, and inclusion are valued and prioritized.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, family status, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or any other non-merit based or legally protected grounds.