Chief Advancement Officer: Philanthropy & Growth Leader

Arts Admin Jobs; Charleston (SC); On-site; USD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

6% 401(k) matching program

Paid vacation and holidays

Long-term disability coverage

Job summary

Charleston Symphony, a premier cultural organization in Charleston, SC, seeks a Chief Advancement Officer to shape philanthropy and strategic fundraising. Reporting to the CEO, you will lead an experienced team, cultivate major donor relationships, and drive campaigns to expand programs for musicians, students, and community partners.

The role emphasizes building trust, expanding donor pipelines, and coordinating with the Board and leadership to advance the Symphony’s mission and impact.

Qualifications

• Accomplished advancement leader with experience in multimillion-dollar fundraising programs.
• Strong ability to build and manage teams, define priorities, and drive metrics.
• Experience engaging boards, donors, and community partners in a culturally-focused organization.

Responsibilities

• Lead advancement strategy and donor cultivation with the CEO and senior team.
• Personally manage a select portfolio of major donors and pursue transformational gifts.
• Oversee Annual Fund growth, donor stewardship, and campaign planning.
• Coordinate endowment campaigns with leadership and teams.
• Develop donor experiences linking performances, education, and outreach to fundraising.
• Ensure ethical standards, data integrity, and transparent reporting of gifts and pledges.

Skills

Major gift fundraising

Donor relations

Strategic leadership

Job description

Charleston Symphony, a premier cultural organization in Charleston, SC, seeks a Chief Advancement Officer to shape philanthropy and strategic fundraising. Reporting to the CEO, you will lead an experienced team, cultivate major donor relationships, and drive campaigns to expand programs for musicians, students, and community partners.

The role emphasizes building trust, expanding donor pipelines, and coordinating with the Board and leadership to advance the Symphony’s mission and impact.