Director of Development

Ensemble Theatre Company (ETC) is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Director of Development. This full-time benefits-eligible position requires someone who has demonstrated expertise in donor development, cultivation, donor events and soliciting major gifts.

ETC is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and justice in our organization and our community, and thus we seek a broad spectrum of employees. We strongly encourage and welcome applicants who are Black, Indigenous or People of Color, as well as those who are from other underrepresented communities.

Organizational Description
Led by Executive Director Scott DeVine, ETC presents important new plays and innovative interpretations of classic works for a broad audience. ETC engages audiences with entertaining, compelling, and thought-provoking theatrical productions, develops the community’s knowledge and appreciation of live stage productions, and offers a range of educational programs for young people.

Position Summary

The Director of Development is a senior staff member at ETC responsible for developing and executing an annual fundraising plan to raise $1.5M to $2M annually through major gifts, grants, and events. In addition, they will work closely with the Executive Director and board to cultivate and steward a pipeline of individual and institutional donors of all types and at all levels, while advancing the company’s visibility and profile as the premier provider of professional theater in Santa Barbara.

Essential Functions

Fundraising and Donor Relations:

Assist with the development of fundraising budgets, projections and forecasts Conceptualize, plan, and executive annual fundraising initiatives including, not limited to mainstage sponsorships, seasonal appeals, education and outreach programs, and special projects. Develop and expand major gifts program, comprised of donors who give gifts of $10,000 and above Execute and oversee the building and marketing of the Legacy Society, ETC’s planned giving program Provide leadership on efforts to move individuals into the ranks of major givers Maintain an active schedule of in person visits to cultivate, solicit and close major gifts Grants:

Provide leadership for the research and identification of new grant opportunities for general operating funds and programs Maintain and update the company’s annual grant calendar and ensure adequate time is available for staff to support grant information and writing needs In consultation with other staff and consultants oversee the drafting, review, edit and finalize grant applications, foundation reports, and correspondences In conjunction with the Executive Director and board, maintain and cultivate relationships with local, regional and national foundations through attendance at events, regular communication, and meetings 

Events & Administrative Activities:

Provide staff support to ETC’s Board Development, and Special Events Committees Oversee and support all company fundraising and donor stewardship events, including but not limited to the annual gala, opening and closing night parties, Salon and Soiree donor events, and volunteer appreciation events Assist with the development of print and digital solicitation materials and website content Represent the company at performances, off-stage programs, and community events