Reports to: Executive Director

Status: Full-time, Exempt

Location: Jackson, Michigan (Hybrid work schedule available)

Salary Range: $55,000–$65,000, commensurate with experience

Benefits:  The Jackson Symphony Orchestra provides eligible employees with access to a variety of benefits to support their well-being. These include health insurance, retirement investment, paid time off and more!

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director of Development is responsible for leading and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy to meet or exceed all contributed revenue goals.

As a member of the senior leadership team, the Director will partner closely with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to expand philanthropic support from individuals, corporations, foundations, and government sources.

This role requires a proactive, self-directed professional who can independently manage projects, set priorities, and drive fundraising activity forward with minimal day-to-day supervision.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Fundraising Strategy & Revenue Growth

• Develop and implement a comprehensive annual development plan.
• Establish contributed revenue goals and benchmarks.
• Monitor fundraising performance and adjust strategies to maximize results.
• Prepare and present progress reports to leadership and Board.

Major Gifts & Donor Relations

• Manage a portfolio of donors and prospects.
• Conduct donor meetings and cultivation visits.
• Develop personalized solicitation and stewardship strategies.
• Lead major gift identification and solicitation efforts.

Institutional & Corporate Giving

• Oversee foundation and government grant activity.
• Develop corporate sponsorship programs and partnerships.
• Build relationships with business and community leaders.

Events & Stewardship

• Oversee fundraising and donor stewardship events.
• Partner with staff and volunteers to execute benefit events.
• Ensure meaningful donor recognition and engagement.

Board & Volunteer Engagement

• Partner with the Board to advance fundraising efforts.
• Support prospect identification and relationship building.
• Staff Development Committee meetings.

Development Operations

• Oversee donor database management and gift processing.
• Ensure accurate revenue tracking and reporting.
• Manage development budgets and forecasts.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The JSO operates with a collaborative but lean administrative team. Staff members are empowered to lead their areas of expertise, take ownership of outcomes, and contribute strategically across the organization.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 5 years nonprofit fundraising experience.
• Demonstrated success securing major gifts.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• CRM/database proficiency.
• Ability to work evenings/weekends as needed.

Professional Competencies

• Highly self-motivated and organized.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities independently.
• Strong initiative and follow-through.
• Comfort working in a lean, hands-on environment.

Preferred

• Performing arts fundraising experience.
• Campaign or endowment experience.
• Knowledge of symphonic music.
• CFRE certification a plus.