Position Title: Director of Development
Location: Portland, OR
Reports to: Executive Director
Compensation: $80,000–$90,000 annually, depending on experience
Benefits: Health and dental insurance, 120 hours of PTO (first year), 7 paid holidays annually
About North Pole Studio
Founded in 2020, North Pole Studio is a dynamic and rapidly growing non-profit organization dedicated to supporting artists with autism and intellectual/developmental disabilities. We provide opportunities for artists to thrive in the arts community, fostering self-determination and meaningful engagement. Our core programs include:
- Professional Studio Program
- Art Classes & Workshops
- Exhibiting Artist Program
With an expanding footprint, we recently moved to a new 5,000-square-foot space in the Pearl District to further our impact, serving over 525 artists in the Portland metro area. As we continue to grow, we’re seeking a Director of Development to help shape the future of our fundraising efforts.
Position Overview
The Director of Development will play a key role in securing and managing approximately $1.2 million in annual contributed revenue. This includes individual, corporate, foundation, and government support. Working closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and the development team, you will focus on expanding the donor pipeline, growing major gifts, and aligning our fundraising strategy with the organization’s five-year strategic goals.
Key Responsibilities
- Fundraising Strategy & Execution: Develop and implement strategies to secure $1.2 million in annual contributed revenue. Focus on maturing the donor pipeline and cultivating relationships to secure gifts ranging from $25k to $100k+, as well as major gifts over $100k.
- Donor Cultivation & Stewardship: Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward individual donors, corporate sponsors, and foundations.
- Event Management: Lead the planning and execution of fundraising events, including annual campaigns and donor engagement events.
- Team Leadership & Collaboration: Supervise the development manager and collaborate with internal teams, the Board of Directors, and external stakeholders to achieve fundraising goals.
- Communications & Outreach: Oversee the organization’s public outreach and communications strategy, ensuring clear and effective messaging about North Pole Studio’s mission, impact, and fundraising initiatives.
- Board Engagement & Support: Work closely with Board members to engage them in fundraising efforts, leveraging their networks and expertise to secure new donors and sponsors.
- Equity-Focused Fundraising: Implement and uphold equitable fundraising practices, ensuring that North Pole’s fundraising strategies are inclusive and representative of the diverse community we serve.
- Travel: Attend events, donor meetings, and other functions as required, including occasional travel within Oregon and out-of-state.
Professional Competencies
- Experience: 5+ years in frontline fundraising or equivalent experience in relationship-building roles, such as corporate sales.
- Donor Relationship Management: Expertise in identifying, cultivating, and soliciting major gifts. Experience managing a donor portfolio and using CRM/project management tools effectively.
- Leadership & Team Management: Proven ability to manage and inspire staff, delegate responsibilities, and support team development.
- Strategic Thinking: Strong ability to align fundraising efforts with organizational goals, contributing to long-term sustainability.
- Board Relations: Ability to engage and empower Board members in fundraising efforts, strengthening relationships and leveraging their networks.
- Industry Knowledge: Familiarity with best practices in the nonprofit sector, particularly within arts organizations.
- Cultural Competence: Demonstrated ability to work with diverse populations, fostering inclusive relationships and embracing equity in all aspects of development.
- Commitment to Mission: Passion for North Pole Studio’s mission and a genuine interest in supporting artists with autism and intellectual/developmental disabilities.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in arts organizations, especially Progressive Studios or similar models.
- Success in closing multiple major gifts ($100k+) or equivalent contributions.
- Experience managing or working with a development team in a fast-growing, mission-driven environment.
Physical Requirements
- 80-90% of the time spent on a computer.
- Occasional lifting of office/event materials (up to 10-15 lbs).
- All studio and event venues are ADA accessible.
To Apply:
Email a cover letter and resume to carissa@northpolestudio.org
Deadline to Apply: August 29th.
Applicants will be interviewed on a rolling basis.
More Info
https://www.northpolestudio.org/employment-opportunities
Salary
$80,000-$90,000
Location
Portland, OR
Commitment
Full-Time
Contact Email
carissa@northpolestudio.org