Development Director: Lead Fundraising & Donor Relations

Mudlark Theater Company; Evanston (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The Mudlark Theater Company seeks a Development Director to lead all fundraising and contributed revenue strategies, including annual giving, grants, sponsorships, and events. This role partners with the Executive Director, Board, and committees to set and achieve revenue goals and ensure donor stewardship.

The position oversees donor communications, CRM maintenance, and reporting, while cultivating community and institutional partnerships to support the organization's mission.

Qualifications

• 3 years experience in fundraising.
• Proficiency in managing donor databases or CRMs.
• Strong written and verbal communicator; grant-writing experience preferred.
• Enthusiasm to work on a small passionate team and grow contributed revenue capacity.
• Prior experience working for a youth serving and/or arts organization is beneficial, but not required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement fundraising strategies to support organizational priorities and growth.
• Lead annual giving, campaigns, and donor relations activities.
• Manage grants portfolio including proposal timelines, reporting deadlines, and funder relationships.
• Plan and oversee fundraising events, including the annual gala and related activities.
• Maintain donor records in the CRM and generate contributed revenue reports for leadership.
• Uphold diversity, equity, and inclusion commitments in all work.

Skills

Fundraising

Donor relations

Grant writing

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Tools

CRM (Neon)

Job description

The Mudlark Theater Company seeks a Development Director to lead all fundraising and contributed revenue strategies, including annual giving, grants, sponsorships, and events. This role partners with the Executive Director, Board, and committees to set and achieve revenue goals and ensure donor stewardship.

The position oversees donor communications, CRM maintenance, and reporting, while cultivating community and institutional partnerships to support the organization's mission.