Job Board

Role: Development Officer 

Working as part of an integrated and collaborative Public Engagement team, the Development Officer will report to the Associate Director of Development and the Senior Director of Public Engagement. The successful candidate will contribute to the WSO’s development strategy which
includes annual giving, sponsorships, foundations, prospecting, donor cultivation and stewardship and assistance with events.

The successful candidate will have at least 5 years’ experience in non-profit sector fundraising, ideally within the performing arts. A degree from a post-secondary institution is an asset and advanced training in a recognized fund-raising program is considered. Superior written and verbal
communications skills are required along with solid organizational skills. Experience with Tessitura or similar performing arts database is an asset.

Key responsibilities:

The Development Officer plays a key role within a dynamic team that meets or exceeds annual revenue targets and supports fundraising initiatives.

Fundraising:

Sponsorship:
1. In collaboration with the Public Engagement team, research and identify WSO’s programs, special projects and programs suitable for corporate sponsorship or support.
2. Be part of the team that initiates or identifies new and innovative sponsorship opportunities for WSO programs and products, the Sistema program, music education and leadership programs, regional and international touring and other innovative opportunities within the orchestra milieu and with the WSO in particular.
3. In collaboration with the Development Team, help identify new prospects, prepare proposals and solicit support in the community, including matching relationships with WSO Board and senior staff to potential sponsors.
4. Help manage sponsorship agreements including research, sponsor report cards, benefit activation, stewardship and tracking in Tessitura.
5. Draft correspondence and communications to sponsors.
6. Contribute to grant writing and proposals for government funding and foundations when necessary.

Annual giving:
1. In consultation with the Associate Director of Development, research and identify potential annual donors from ticket top-up data, one-time donations, etc.
2. In collaboration with the Associate Director of Development, cultivate and steward relationships with annual donors.
3. Draft correspondence and communications to individual donors.

Events:

1. In collaboration with the Public Engagement team, support the planning and execution of annual fundraising events.

Relationship Management: 

1. In collaboration with the development team, assist with the WSO’s annual giving program so that relationships with key stakeholders are maintained.
2. Provide support to the WSO’s Development Committee and in specified relationships within the Board Executive of the WSO.
3. Support stewardship of sponsors and donors, with special focus on renewing existing relationships and achieving multi-year sponsorship agreements and ensure specified benefits are delivered.
4. As required, ensure sponsor and donor profiles are updated, monitor activity and mine data.

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate brings to the role the following:

1. Skills, Abilities and Knowledge:
i. Current knowledge of fund development theory, principles, ethics and practices.
ii. Strong written and verbal communications skills and ability to write complex proposals and reports.
iii. Knowledge of promotions and marketing practices and techniques.
iv. Knowledge of businesses, corporations, foundations and other funding agencies in Manitoba and Canada.
v. Experience with corporate sponsorships and stewardship programs including managing designated volunteers.
vi. Ability to work both independently and as a team member on multiple projects and priorities.
vii. Professionalism, diplomacy and ability to influence, negotiate, and secure the cooperation of others.
viii. Strong commitment and ability to maintain confidentiality.
ix. Strong organizational skills, solid judgement, initiative, creativity, diplomacy and discretion in working with the community of donors, sponsors and governments.
x. Knowledge of the performing arts, and the ability to work within a high-pressure environment with multiple deadlines.
xi. Hands-on ability with MS Suite programs, databases and fundraising software.

2. Education, Training and Experience:
i. Minimum of a certificate in a recognized fundraising program (a degree/diploma would be considered an asset).
ii. Five years of related experience.

This full-time position requires work on some evenings and weekends.

To Apply:

Please submit a cover letter along with a CV to careers@wso.mb.ca. This posting will remain open until it is filled. If you require accommodation support during the recruitment process, please contact 204-949-3978.

The Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra is an equal-opportunity employer and strongly supports and values diversity in the workplace. Applications from all qualified candidates are welcome, and individuals from equity-seeking groups are encouraged to apply. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.