Chief Development Officer

About the role

Bay Street Theater seeks an experienced and dynamic Chief Development Officer (CDO) to lead development efforts and serve as a key member of the senior management team. This leadership position offers significant growth potential and the opportunity to shape the fundraising strategy of a prestigious regional theater at a pivotal moment in its evolution.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a strategic, comprehensive advancement strategy that supports the annual operating and capital needs of the organization for the present and the long term, with particular focus on major gifts ($25,000+)
• Create a robust individual giving program, identifying prospects and moving donors through the cultivation pipeline while establishing and deepening relationships with individual donors, business entities, foundations, and government agencies.
• Build year-round giving campaigns including membership, special events (Gala, cultivation events), and annual appeals
• Mentor and lead the development team to create a culture of collaboration and innovation in philanthropic efforts (team includes the Director of Sponsorships and Associate Director of Development)
• Serve as a strategic collaborator with executive leadership and the Board to further the successful realization of Bay Street’s mission and vision in serving its community

Qualifications

• Strong background in the cultivation and solicitation of individual, corporate, foundation, and government donors, and a demonstrated track record in the management of successful development programs, including staff and volunteer management.
• Effective leader and administrator, with solid experience in managing, mentoring and motivating staff, and the ability to inspire those working with them toward accomplishing common objectives.
• Possesses excellent verbal and written communication skills, knowledge of the operations and organization of a not-for-profit.
• High level initiative, creativity, and ingenuity; appreciates the important role cultural institutions play in the life of a vibrant community, and has the ability to articulate this mission and role to others
• Proven track record of securing major gifts and building donor relationships
• Experience managing and mentoring development teams
• Strong analytical skills with ability to balance data-driven strategy and compelling storytelling
• Proficiency with donor CRM systems (Tessitura experience strongly preferred)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Able to work collaboratively across departments in a small, mission-driven organization
• Willingness to be based in Sag Harbor during summer season (May-September) and flexibility for day trips to the East End or NYC for meetings and cultivation activities year-round
• Minimum seven-10 years of development experience with at least five years in management role

Compensation

The salary for this position is $150,000 – 175,000 (based on experience). Bay Street Theater offers a health plan, a generous holiday and PTO policy, and summer housing provided while in residence for the mainstage season.

Application Instructions

The Chief Development Officer search is being conducted on behalf of the Bay Street Theater by TOC Arts Partners, a national consultancy aligning strategies, structures, and leadership toward a thriving cultural sector. The search is being led by VP, Executive Search Cynthia Fuhrman, in consultation with and support from the TOC Arts Partners search team.

To apply, visit the online application and submit your materials. Your cover letter should include any training or experience relevant to the job profile that you would like to highlight, why you consider yourself a good fit for this opportunity, and anything else you’d like us to know about your qualifications that may not be present in your resume. Applications will be accepted until this role is filled, but for best consideration we encourage you to apply by March 10.

For general questions or nominations of prospective candidates, please contact searchteam@tocartspartners.com. We kindly request no phone calls.

Specific questions about the position may be directed to:

Cynthia Fuhrman
VP, Executive Search
cynthia@tocartspartners.com

Not sure you meet 100% of our qualifications? Research shows that cis men apply for jobs when they fulfill an average of 60% of the criteria, while others tend only to apply if they meet every requirement. If you believe that you could excel in this role, we encourage you to apply.