Vice President Of Development

Primary Function

The Vice President of Development for the Columbus Symphony Orchestra (CSO) is responsible for conceptualizing, organizing, and implementing a strategic fundraising program in support of the CSOs mission and vision for the future. The Vice President provides leadership to the CSO development team and builds a sustainable culture of philanthropy to support achieve annual and endowment fund goals. As a key member of the leadership team, the Vice President of Development will implement strategies to build relationships among key constituents to create a robust financial future.

Duties and Responsibilities

Institutional Advancement

• Works with the CSO Chief Operating Officer to develop short and long-term goals for the year with implementation and timeline plans.

• Provides vision and leadership in creating Developments strategic direction and managing implementation of infrastructure that enhances fundraising efforts through individual gifts, federal and state grants, special events, and corporate and foundation support.

• Oversees and supervises the annual fund program, including goal setting, solicitation plans, key calls, and materials generation.

• Oversees and supervises the corporate giving/sponsorship programs for the CSO including the development of prospects, solicitation, coordination, and fulfillment.

• Responsible for stewardship of major individuals, corporate, and foundation donors to cultivate deeper ties with donors.

• Participates in the long-range planning activities of the department and permanent endowment fund.

• Supports Capital Campaign fundraising efforts.

• Regularly interacts with the Board of Trustees and Development Committee.

• Leads and managers the staff of the Development Department, including hiring, mentoring, performance management and payroll duties.

• Develops and champions strategic plan with leadership staff and the board; translates priority objectives into appropriate messaging to acquire financial support for the organization.

• Acts as an ambassador for the CSO at development functions, receptions, and performances.

• Leads communications as writer and editor for development related materials, including but not limited to solicitations and appeals, acknowledgement letters, stewardship communications, and event invitations.

• Leads special events for development, including the conductors circle, legacy society, donor rehearsals, and other events that enhance fundraising efforts, in addition to the annual Benefit Concert and Gala.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of comprehensive campaign management, including Capital and Endowment fundraising.

• Proven track record of effectively interacting with diverse populations within the community.

• Knowledge of planning and leading strategic initiative, data analysis, and budget management.

• Sensitivity to the demands of and ability to participate in a highly intellectual work environment.

• Ability to manage and collaborate with others.

• Impeccable interpersonal communication skills, both verbal and written.

• Comfortable meeting with stakeholders and representing the Columbus Symphony.

• Exceptional leadership and project management skills.

• Creative problem-solving skills and highly developed analytic skills.

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced organization.

• An enthusiastic, versatile, and candid individual with a proven ability to follow through.

• Knowledge of CRM software.

• Ability to consistently support the Columbus Symphonys values.

Credentials and Experience

• Bachelors degree in a related field is required; an advanced degree is preferred, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

• Minimum 7+ years of professional experience.

• 5+ years of fundraising or related work experience.

• Ability to work a flexible schedule to accommodate the needs of the organization.

CSOs EEO Statement

The Columbus Symphony Orchestra (CSO) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. CSO does not discriminate in its employment decisions on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, lactation status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, or any other protected status.