Overview
ABOUT MILLER THEATRE
Miller Theatre at Columbia University is one of New York City’s most acclaimed performing arts presenters, widely celebrated for its innovative programming and its success building new audiences for the arts. In partnership with Columbia University School of the Arts, Miller is dedicated to producing and presenting unique events, with a focus on contemporary and early music, jazz, chamber opera, and multimedia performances. For over 30 years, Miller Theatre has helped launch the careers of myriad composers and ensembles, serving as an incubator for emerging artists and a champion of those not yet well known in the United States.
We are now inviting applications for the position of Associate Director of Development and Engagement.
Position Summary:
Reporting to the Associate Dean and Executive Director, and working closely with the Associate Dean of Development, the incumbent oversees fundraising and engagement activities for Miller Theatre at Columbia University, the premier performing arts venue at Columbia University, dedicated to producing and presenting unique events in contemporary and early music, jazz, and opera. Responsible for reaching contributed revenue goals from individual, foundation, and government supporters. The incumbent plays an important role in day-to-day decision making as well as long-term strategic planning, and works to increase support for and awareness of the arts at Columbia University as a member of the School of the Arts and Miller Theatre’s fundraising and engagement teams. Other related duties as assigned. This position requires evening and weekend hours.
Responsibilities:
- Oversee fundraising and engagement strategies and campaigns to meet or exceed Miller Theatre’s revenue goals, maximize awareness, and increase participation
- Identify, cultivate, and manage a portfolio of approximately 100 leadership donors and potential donors, gifts of $2,500 or more, through visits, phone calls, written solicitations, and other forms of personalized outreach. Annually conduct a minimum of 75 substantive visits and 15 targeted solicitations
- Oversee Miller Theatre’s annual fund campaign to maintain and progressively expand the individual donor base. Includes research, analysis, and development of campaign strategy; defining and then meeting the annual fundraising targets; direct solicitation of individual prospects; written communications, print pieces, and mailing lists
- Foster a collegial and inclusive environment to cultivate strengths that enables everyone to do their best work. Maintain high quality customer service for diverse audiences, including Miller Theatre patrons and board members, granting agency colleagues, and Columbia University stakeholders
- Oversee year-round calendar of grant opportunities; develop and write proposals, reports, and acknowledgements; cultivate and steward foundation and government prospects; identify and cultivate new funding opportunities; closely track submission requirements and deadlines
- Oversee donor research to inform and improve the development of new fundraising opportunities and strategic engagement plans
- Work closely with Miller Theatre’s Board of Advisors, oversee planning and implementation for board meetings and special events
- Serve as a liaison with Columbia University Office of Alumni and Development and Office of Sponsored Projects Administration (SPA)
- Serve as department representative at Miller Theatre performances and fundraising events, including evening and weekend hours, to facilitate continued and increased support for Miller Theatre
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent required. A minimum of three to five years related experience is required. A commitment to fundraising for the arts, an interest in Miller Theatre’s programming, and the ability to articulate a compelling case for support is extremely important. A high level of energy, initiative, and creativity is essential as is the ability to handle multiple projects independently in a fast-paced environment with strong attention to detail. Excellent writing and communications skills, tact, sensitivity, and judgement are required. A high level of proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel are required.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience in fundraising at an arts organization or university, including demonstrated success with leadership annual fund giving, is strongly preferred. Experience with development-specific databases is preferred. Thorough knowledge and understanding of, or genuine interest in, the performing arts is strongly preferred.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
Reports to the Associate Dean and Executive Director, working closely with the Associate Dean of Development for School of the Arts
How to Apply:
Please submit resume and cover letter through our website at https://opportunities.columbia.edu/cw/en-us/job/529680
Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran
Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents
This is a full-time position with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical and dental plans, tax savings accounts, retirement savings plans, tuition benefits, life insurance and disability coverage, and paid time off.
Must be able to work in-person and adhere to Columbia University’s COVID-19 vaccination and health compact requirements.