Development and Special Events Manager

Arts Hacker; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Health insurance

403(b) retirement plan

Flexible Spending Account

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Music of the Baroque, a Chicago-based orchestra and chorus, is seeking a Development and Special Events Manager to advance fundraising through donor stewardship, data management, grants, and event execution. This role collaborates across departments to help meet contributed revenue goals and enhance the patron experience.

The successful candidate will manage PatronManager (Salesforce-based CRM), process donations, support fund campaigns, plan the annual gala, and assist in special events, donor

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Minimum of two years of relevant professional experience.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Excel and standard office software; experience with CRM systems (Salesforce/PatronManager preferred).
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to evolving needs.
• Experience with annual fund campaigns and/or special events preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain the fundraising side of PatronManager (Salesforce-based CRM), including reporting and data analysis.
• Process and acknowledge all charitable contributions in a timely and accurate manner.
• Manage corporate, government, and foundation fundraising efforts by compiling materials, preparing reports, and submitting grant applications.
• Assist in the planning and execution of the annual fundraising gala, including procurement of raffle and auction items.
• Undertake the planning and execution of various special fundraising events.
• Manage annual fund campaigns, with a focus on donor segmentation and strategic growth of giving.
• Oversee intermission receptions at concerts to ensure a high-quality patron experience.
• Compile and proof donor listings for program books and other publications.
• Provide support for concerts and other artistic or operational activities as needed.
• Serve as back-up phone support to the Audience Services Manager.

Skills

Communication

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Team-oriented

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

Salesforce

PatronManager

Excel

Job description

Music of the Baroque is a dynamic orchestra and chorus presenting up to 30 live concerts and events every season, including its acclaimed concert series showcasing works from the 18th century and before, and special events such as The Chicago Water Music and our annual gala, A Musical Feast.

Our organization is greatly loved by audiences in Chicago and beyond and has seen considerable growth in recent years. We are about to embark on a new strategic plan leading up to our 60th anniversary in 2030. The Development and Special Events Manager plays a key role in advancing Music of the Baroque’s fundraising efforts through donor stewardship, data management, grants management, and the successful execution of events and campaigns. This position works across departments to support contributed revenue goals and enhance the patron experience. You will be joining a highly motivated team that has moved the organization forward significantly in recent years and is ready to take Music of the Baroque into its next chapter.

Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain the fundraising side of PatronManager (Salesforce-based CRM), including reporting and data analysis
• Process and acknowledge all charitable contributions in a timely and accurate manner
• Manage corporate, government, and foundation fundraising efforts by compiling materials, preparing reports, and submitting grant applications
• Assist in the planning and execution of the annual fundraising gala, including procurement of raffle and auction items
• Undertake the planning and execution of various special fundraising events
• Manage annual fund campaigns, with a focus on donor segmentation and strategic growth of giving
• Oversee intermission receptions at concerts to ensure a high-quality patron experience
• Compile and proof donor listings for program books and other publications
• Provide support for concerts and other artistic or operational activities as needed
• Serve as back-up phone support to the Audience Services Manager

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Minimum of two years of relevant professional experience
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Excel and standard office software; experience with CRM systems (Salesforce/PatronManager preferred)
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to evolving needs
• Exceptional attention to detail and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset
• Experience with annual fund campaigns and/or special events preferred
• Familiarity with Chicago’s philanthropic and arts community a plus
• Interest in classical music; knowledge of the local classical music scene preferred

Compensation & Benefits

• $55,000 – $60,000 annual salary range
• Generous paid vacation days, sick days, and personal days in addition to 11 paid holidays
• Health insurance; 80-90% employer paid
• Employer-paid life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability
• 403(b) retirement plan with potential for employer contributions based on fiscal year results
• Flexible Savings Account
• Shortened workday on Fridays from Memorial Day through Labor Day
• Hybrid working environment
• Opportunities for professional development and growth