Director of Development

The Clay Studio (TCS) seeks a results-oriented Director of Development to lead the organization’s next growth phase.  The Director, a key member of the Executive Team,  provides the leadership to leverage the organization’s regional and national reputation in the ceramic arts and focus on strategic approaches to expand TCS’s philanthropic base, empowering donors across all segments to engage deeply in the mission and vision of The Clay Studio. This includes designing and launching a comprehensive multi-faceted development plan that includes strategies to optimize Board support, build an individual major gifts and planned giving program, and expand institutional support from foundations and corporations.  Additional responsibilities include the Annual Fund and all annual appeals, sponsorships, special events, and project-specific campaigns. 

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Below are the duties of the Director of Development, reflecting the tasks associated with their key competencies:

CUSTOMER FOCUS & EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION

• Ensures attention to detail, uses tact, and prioritizes building relationships.
• Maintains a friendly, positive demeanor when interacting with colleagues, vendors, stakeholders, and the public.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• In cooperation with the company’s senior leadership, craft a long-term vision to increase contributed income annually (current contributed revenues are $2 million) from multiple sources and execute a strategic and comprehensive development plan that will support TCS's operating needs for the present and the long term.
• Source, cultivate, and steward a portfolio of mid-to-major individual donors and board members (i.e., $1,000--$75,000+) by developing and executing tailored cultivation and engagement plans. 
• Plan, oversee, and, as necessary, execute annual giving campaigns - Annual Appeal, Giving Tuesday, and other quarterly solicitations.
• Plan, oversee, and execute two major fundraising events, including performing essential functions to solicit sponsors, develop materials, and work with the committee, as well as managing staff who assist in coordinating and executing the annual Gala and Community Fundraiser.  
• Work with the committee and staff to align the strategy and effectiveness of special events to raise funds and develop and attract donors.  
• Develop relationships with current and prospective institutional Grantmakers, corporate leaders, and government agencies to retain and grow revenues. 
• Write and submit grant proposals when required by the grants calendar, supporting the Development Manager who serves as the primary grants writer.
• In conjunction with the Executive Director, cultivate and steward the Board of Directors to strengthen and support their role in fundraising activities and board development.  
• Create budgets for proposals and special events, and be able to read and understand basic organizational financial reports (P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow, and Audited financial statements) and utilize essential accounting software. 
• Work closely with the communications and marketing team to develop compelling messaging.
• Actively advocate for The Clay Studio. 

MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION

• Develop and manage a team as the department grows, including staff, contract employees, interns, and volunteers.  
• Develop and monitor the department budget.
• Compose tailored narratives and pitches for high-stakes individual donors, including proposals and all donor correspondence as needed.  
• Supervise the research and preparation of all funding proposals and grant applications to obtain support for the Studio’s activities and programs and oversee administration, final reporting, and relationship management.
• Create fundraising materials.  
• Create and regularly update an annual fundraising calendar and related reports to record fundraising efforts, deadlines, and degree of success. 
• Provide oversight for maintaining an up-to-date and accurate donor database. 
• Create and maintain development and acknowledgment policies and procedures for all funding sources.  
• As needed, conduct regular quantitative and qualitative data analysis to inform ongoing priorities and adjust courses where required to meet annual goals.  

COLLABORATION

• Work in tandem with the Executive Director, members of the management team, and BOD to identify and cultivate ideal candidates for Board membership, focusing on the areas of need and capacity; attend Board and other meetings and board events as necessary (will require some evenings and weekends).
• Work across departments to identify potential opportunities for funding, donors, partnerships, and events.
• Strategically leverage the Executive Director, Leadership Team, and board members to steward and engage donors, including preparing these individuals for successful donor interactions.  
• Articulate and persuasive, and is a savvy relationship builder. Capable of establishing trust, respect, and rapport. 
• Has a sincere appreciation for people and how they are each uniquely motivated. 
• Has an authentic, positive disposition.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:

• Express a passion for clay arts and know the cultural life in the region. Have a genuine interest in becoming a driver of The Clay Studio’s mission and vision.
• At least 5 years of experience and a proven track record confidently engaging with major individual donors.
• Persuasive writer with experience in drafting formal proposals, grants, sponsorship packages, and presentations.
• A strong desire to forge and maintain long-term relationships with the organization, team members, BOD, supporters, and the arts community.
• Demonstrated ability to be a strategic thinker and provide leadership in constituency-building 
• Proven track record of consistent revenue growth from major donors, foundations, and corporate donations, preferably with those giving to the arts
• Strong written and oral communication skills and superior attention to detail; demonstrated ability to relate well to individuals with a passion for the arts.  
• Must possess initiative, leadership, and creative energy. 
• Fast-paced and results-oriented with the ability to work promptly with multiple deadlines and competing requirements; solid work ethic. Strong time-management skills are a must.  
• Experience managing a small team and getting the best out of them. 
• Strong computer skills, including solid MS Office, Excel, and database knowledge. 
• A Bachelor’s degree is preferred, and a Master’s degree is a plus. A CFRE is preferred but not required.
• Hold a valid driver's license. 
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and access, and fostering a nurturing environment.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP:
The Director reports to the Executive Director, works closely with the leadership staff and Board of Directors, and supervises a Development Manager and Assistant.  

WORK SCHEDULE:
Regular hours are Monday – Friday, on average 40 hours per week, including a 1-hour lunch break daily. This position is expected in special events that may occur outside regular business hours; in these instances, hours are adjusted accordingly.
 

The Clay Studio is an equal-opportunity employer. The Clay Studio values a diverse workplace and strongly encourages people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, and members of ethnic minorities to apply.