Director of Major & Leadership Gifts (Washington National Opera)

Company: The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Location: Washington
Posted on: March 18, 2025

Job Description:

Director of Major & Leadership Gifts (Washington National Opera)Requisition Number: DIREC001010Apply now

• Posted: February 26, 2025
• Full-Time
• On-siteLocationsJohn F. Kennedy Center for the Performing ArtsWashington, DC 20566, USADescriptionAbout The Kennedy CenterThe Kennedy Center is the nation's cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres and is home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra.At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are committed to leveraging diverse perspectives to create a safe and transparent community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law.Mission Statement: As the nation's performing arts center, we are a leader for the arts across America and around the world, inspiring and educating communities. We welcome all to create, experience, learn about, and engage with the arts.Why Join UsWe offer a total rewards package to all full-time employees, including:
  • Retirement plan with organization matching (after 1 year of employment)
  • Qualifying employer for the Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
  • Commuter programs including pre-tax options for discounted parking and SmartBenefits (WMATA)
  • Annual Leave, Sick Leave, and Personal Days available immediately upon hire
  • 11 paid holidays per year
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits with FSA and HSA options, and paid FMLAThe projected salary range for this position is $94,600 - $120,000, commensurate with experience, and includes a comprehensive benefits package. This range may be modified in the future based on candidate's skills, expertise, and experience.Job DescriptionThe Director of Major and Leadership Gifts at Washington National Opera (WNO) reports to the Managing Director of Advancement and collaborates with WNO Leadership, other Development senior staff, members of the Board of Trustees, Government Affairs, and other departments.The Director is responsible for a significant portion of WNO's individual contributed income targets and other institution-wide and endowment giving efforts. This position requires a focus on building innovative fundraising strategies and relationships, as well as maintaining and advancing existing programs.The incumbent manages their time, resources, and workload to maximize productivity and financial results; exercises discretion; evaluates complex internal and external relationships; and takes initiative to advance the objectives and goals of multiple campaigns. This position oversees a staff of three Gift Officers and collaborates closely with the MDA to execute established fundraising priorities.This position will foster a collaborative team culture while prioritizing opportunities for professional development for the staff.Key Responsibilities
    • Oversee a portfolio of Trustees and high-level donors, managing their philanthropic engagement and stewardship.
    • Create opportunities with the team to secure undesignated funds and designated opportunities for attracting major gifts.
    • Collaborate with other fundraising teams to deepen relationships and identify cross-selling opportunities.
    • Provide team leadership and coaching through regular feedback and performance management, aligning priorities to meet revenue goals.
    • Manage and develop best practices in all areas of fundraising, including communications, prospect research, proposals, meetings, events, and donor engagement.
    • Steward portfolio through all WNO, KC, and NSO major events.
    • Help manage one-off cultivation events hosted by Trustees and Major Donors.
    • Co-lead weekly staff meetings, strategic planning retreats, and professional development workshops with MDA.
    • Work with MDA and Director of Individual Giving and Operations to implement and evaluate long-term goals and strategies.
    • Promote a collegial and collaborative working relationship with all Kennedy Center and WNO colleagues.
    • Other duties as assigned.Key Qualifications
      • Bachelor's degree or applicable professional experience.
      • Minimum of 7 years in development, with at least 3 years in a supervisory capacity managing development team members.
      • Experience managing a high-performing team that met or exceeded goals through effective goal setting and team-building.
      • Ability to collaborate across a matrixed organization to leverage expertise and achieve shared goals.
      • Knowledge in fundraising principles, development trends, and non-profit management or Board engagement.
      • Experience developing and implementing fundraising strategies while maintaining flexibility to adapt to changing priorities.
      • Experience with Tessitura or nonprofit experience with a CRM database is preferred.
      • Attention to detail and knowledge of standard accounting procedures.
      • Candidate must be local or willing to relocate to the DMV area. Relocation assistance is not provided.Additional Information
        • Large, vibrant, fast-paced office that values initiative, efficiency, diversity, and teamwork.
        • Office culture encourages professional growth through internal promotion whenever possible.
        • Working outside of normal business hours (nights and weekends) can be expected.
        • This position is eligible for flexible work arrangements.
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Keywords: The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Washington DC , Director of Major & Leadership Gifts (Washington National Opera), Executive , Washington, DC