Project for Empty Space (PES) – Newark/New York, USA
Location: Hybrid (multiple PES locations)
Position Type: Full-Time
Salary: $145,000 (commensurate with experience)
Deadline: January 18, 2025, 6:00 AM
Project for Empty Space (PES) is seeking a Director of Development to create and execute a comprehensive contributed-giving strategy for a rapidly growing organization. PES has experienced a 400% increase in its annual operating budget, now totaling $2.2 million, and the Director will be instrumental in further expanding funding sources. The role reports to the Co-Directors and will oversee all development functions, including grant strategy, public and private funding, individual donations, corporate sponsorships, and special event revenue. A key part of this role will be establishing PES’ endowment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Development Strategy and Operations:
- Develop and execute a 5-year strategic plan for development.
- Establish and manage PES’ endowment.
- Create and execute an annual fundraising plan.
- Secure direct financial support from individuals, corporations, and foundations.
- Oversee and manage the grant writing team, tracking grant deadlines and reporting (currently 60% of gross revenues annually).
- Individual Giving:
- Launch and manage an individual giving program, from major gifts to annual appeals.
- Increase the individual giving percentage of annual revenues through current and future programs.
- Cultivate a culture of support within PES’ communities in Newark, New Jersey, New York City, and nationally.
- Assist Co-Directors in maintaining relationships with major donors.
- Develop a CRM system and robust reporting processes for donor records.
- Special Events:
- Oversee and grow fundraising events (fall and spring) and expand participation.
- Track revenue and expenses for special events as part of the general operating budget.
- Governance:
- Prepare quarterly development reports for Co-Directors and the board.
- Facilitate annual board giving and identify new board members.
- Work with the board to cultivate new sources of support.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s Degree in non-profit management or related field (Master’s preferred).
- 5+ years of professional experience in a development capacity, ideally in a non-profit arts organization.
- Knowledge of the fundraising landscape in the Newark/New York area is a plus.
- Strong alignment with PES’s commitment to social equity, justice, and decolonial practices.
- Experience in shaping innovations in philanthropy for small arts nonprofits.
- Exceptional organizational skills, strong problem-solving abilities, and proficiency with Google platforms and CRM programs (e.g., Bloomerang, Salesforce, Raisers Edge).
- Fully vaccinated with a CDC-approved vaccine (or exemption as per legal requirements).
Benefits:
- Salary: $145,000 (commensurate with experience).
- Full benefits package: Healthcare, Dental, Vision, PTO.
- Hybrid position with typical hours from 10 AM to 6 PM, and occasional weekend/evening work for events.
