Director, Major Gifts & Donor Experience

Tuts; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS) seeks a Director of Philanthropy to advance individual giving from mid-level to major gifts, partnering with the Chief Philanthropy Officer. You will manage donor portfolios, guide strategy, and oversee the Gift Officer to expand philanthropic support.

Ideal candidates bring 5+ years in nonprofit fundraising, a track record of five- and six-figure gifts, and strong communication skills for stakeholder engagement. Evening/weekend events may be required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum five years of nonprofit fundraising, with a focus on individual and major gifts.
• Proven success soliciting five- and six-figure gifts.
• Track record of meeting or exceeding annual individual giving goals.
• Supervisory experience coaching frontline fundraisers.
• Strong communication skills, including public speaking and writing.
• Experience working with volunteers, Boards, non-profits, and community organizations.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency with Word, Excel, Outlook, and a donor database; Tessitura experience preferred.
• Excellent organizational skills; ability to handle multiple demands.
• Experience working with diverse backgrounds and cultures.
• Knowledge of performing arts; musical theatre a plus.
• Availability for evening and weekend events and performances.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the Chief Philanthropy Officer on departmental strategy, annual goals, budgets, and operations.
• Lead the individual giving program for mid-level through major gifts.
• Manage a personal portfolio of mid-level and major gift donors and prospects.
• Supervise the Individual Giving Officer.
• Build the major gifts pipeline.
• Create donor experiences that deepen engagement and increase giving.
• Engage Board members and volunteers in fundraising efforts.
• Maintain awareness of fundraising priorities and foster a culture of philanthropy.
• Ensure accurate donor activity documentation and uphold confidentiality.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Fundraising strategy

Public speaking

Writing

Team leadership

Donor relationship management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Tools

Tessitura (CRM)

Job description

Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS) seeks a Director of Philanthropy to advance individual giving from mid-level to major gifts, partnering with the Chief Philanthropy Officer. You will manage donor portfolios, guide strategy, and oversee the Gift Officer to expand philanthropic support.

Ideal candidates bring 5+ years in nonprofit fundraising, a track record of five- and six-figure gifts, and strong communication skills for stakeholder engagement. Evening/weekend events may be required.