Careers and auditions

Job Title: Major Gifts Coordinator
Department: Donor Engagement
Reports To: Senior Vice President of Advancement and Strategic Initiatives
Classification: Full-time; Hourly / Non-Exempt
Supervises: N/A
Location: Sarasota, FL

General Overview:

Sarasota Orchestra has long been a cultural beacon in the community. As the oldest continuing orchestra in Florida, we have set a regional standard for diverse performances that inspire people of all ages to experience live music. We have been the foundation for music education across generations, highlighted through both an acclaimed Youth Orchestra program that has nurtured young talent for over 65 years, and an annual music festival for emerging musical artists from around the world. This dedication to exquisite performance and first-class musical education underscores our mission to inspire and engage the community through the transformative power of music.

Known for its unique, team-oriented fundraising culture, Sarasota Orchestra seeks to engage a Major Gifts Coordinator to join an established and successful team of fundraising professionals. Reporting directly to the Senior Vice President of Advancement and Strategic Initiatives, this role will provide critical administrative and execution support to a growing fundraising operation. As the Orchestra prepares for a transformational multi-year capital campaign to build a new Music Center and strengthen the endowment, this is a great opportunity to learn more about nonprofit operations during a historic fundraising effort.

Within the first 6 months, the Major Gifts Coordinator will establish an effective and efficient system to manage the Senior Vice President of Advancement and Strategic Initiatives’ calendar and major gifts portfolio, and independently coordinate department meetings and cross-functional workstreams.

Responsibilities:

Administrative & Operational Support for Senior Vice President of Advancement & Strategic Initiatives: (40%)

• Directly manage scheduling and travel arrangements;
• Prepare agendas, meeting briefings, and other materials for internal and donor meetings;
• Coordinate donor visits, events, and tours and collaborate across various internal teams to ensure successful and engaging visits for donors.

Major Gifts / Fundraising Operations: (40%)

• Draft written donor communications for the Senior Vice President and Chief Executive Officer;
• Track donor outreach and activity for the Senior Vice President’s portfolio;
• Support the fundraising leadership team in scheduling and organizing regular major donor portfolio reviews and maintenance of the campaign pipeline;
• Regularly update Tessitura with donor information for the Senior Vice President’s portfolio and generally for the campaign; leverage reports and dashboards to manage up on outstanding action items;
• Support with the planning, organization, and execution of campaign activity, donor events (i.e., cocktail parties, annual Education brunch, and pre-concert dinners), and personalized recognition and benefits strategies;
• Support execution of ad hoc research for prospects and existing donors.

Team Operations & Team Culture Support: (20%)

• Manage scheduling, agendas, note-taking, and follow ups for regular Advancement department meetings;
• Plan culture-building and recognition activities for the Advancement team (i.e., coordinating celebrations for birthdays, anniversaries, and wins);
• Coordinate a centralized calendar for the Advancement team including the creation and maintenance of standard two-week look-ahead to ensure clarity across the team and alignment with other departments;
• Manage expense reports.
• Willingness to embrace other duties as assigned. Duties and responsibilities described herein are not a comprehensive list, and additional job tasks may be assigned from time to time as necessitated by the Donor Engagement department and business needs.

Necessary Knowledge & Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• 1+ years of experience in nonprofits or fundraising (internships and college experience included).
• Impeccable attention to detail.
• Comfort with technology.
• Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule, including some evenings and weekends.
• Excellent organizational and problem solving-skills.
• Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Capacity to design and manage systems and calendars for a team.
• Motivated to flexibly and quickly learn and adapt.
• Ability to interact professionally with donors, prospects, staff, or directors of the board.
• Interest in working in, and growing within, the world of arts and culture and/or nonprofit fundraising.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a goal-oriented team environment.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, sit, stand, walk, bend, reach, and use hands to finger, handle or feel. Repetitive motion is required while using a computer. The worker is required to have close visual acuity to perform an activity such as preparing and analyzing data and figures and viewing a computer terminal. This position requires the ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.

Working Conditions:

The job operates in a professional office environment and performing arts venues. The environment is generally moderate in temperature and noise level.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

If you are interested in this opportunity with Sarasota Orchestra, please e-mail a cover letter and resume to [email protected] or call 941-487-2704 with any questions you may have. Thank you!

Job Title: Production Manager
Department: Artistic Operations
Reports to: SVP of Artistic Operations
Classification: Salaried / Exempt
Supervises: Assistant Production Manager & Production Assistants
Location: Sarasota, FL

General Summary:

The Production Manager is responsible for the successful execution of production operations for Sarasota Orchestra. The Production Manager will oversee all orchestra setups, technical logistics, and production requirements for all Orchestra programs and functions. The Production Manager shall nurture a respectful and positive working relationship with all employees, outside vendors and patrons / customers, supporting an inclusive, respectful culture and Sarasota Orchestra values.

Responsibilities:

IATSE and Non-union Hall Coordination

• Liaison with IATSE to coordinate SO schedule with IATSE crew (or stage/facilities manager of each hall)
• Learn and maintain compliance with Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) especially as it relates to working conditions

Operations

• Oversee, supervise and manage all SO orchestra service setups and technical logistics (Masterworks, Pops, GE’s, Soiree’s and Chamber run-outs). Oversee setups for Youth Orchestra, Sarasota Music Festival and Summer Music Camp
• Work closely, cooperatively and proactively with Artistic Operations Staff; Technical Director, Director of Facilities, Catering and Events Supervisor and other departments or internal / external customers as necessary for event set ups and production needs
• Operate lighting systems as needed
• Coordinate and schedule piano tunings
• Coordinate transport of equipment to performance venues
• Assist with some Facilities repair/maintenance

Personnel Office Administration

• Responsible for the management and supervision of the Assistant Production Manager and part-time production staff
• Learn and proficiently use OPAS database and Visio software
• Follow-up with performance venues to coordinate schedules, load in times, etc.
• Maintain inventory and schedule repairs of SO owned instruments (Pianos, Harpsichord, Harps, String Instruments, Percussion)
• Maintain inventory and schedule repairs for SO owned truck and van
• Work professionally and proactively with other departments and musicians providing the best production customer service; demonstrating and supporting orchestra values.
• Perform other relevant duties and additional projects as assigned. Duties and responsibilities described herein are not a comprehensive list, and additional job tasks may be assigned from time to time as necessitated by the Artistic Operations department and other business needs.

Qualifications:

• High school or GED required; Associates or Bachelors degree preferred and / or an equivalent amount of prior skills and experience
• Must have at least 2 or more years’ experience with orchestra production/operations
• Willingness and ability to work long hours, including nights and weekends
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment, while maintaining a calm, positive, respectful and professional demeanor
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Knowledge of orchestral instrumentation/setups
• Basic knowledge of sound and lighting systems
• Microsoft Office proficiency required; OPAS and Visio experience preferred
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy required
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills required
• Ability to maintain positive relationships with all conductors, musicians and staff
• Ability to work well in a team environment
• Must have valid drivers’ license and good driving record; prior experience driving vans and box trucks desired

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, sit, stand, walk, bend, crouch, push, pull, lift, grasp, use hands to handle or feel, and reach with hands and arms. The worker is required to have visual acuity to operate a motor vehicle, view a computer terminal, and determine the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of work assigned. This position requires the ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and lift up to 65 pounds overhead.

Working Conditions:

The job operates in a professional environment including office and performance hall settings and from time to time is required to travel to other work sites in the regional area. The worker is required to function in narrow aisles or passageways. The worker is subject to both inside and outside environmental conditions. In-person office work required.

If you are interested in this opportunity with Sarasota Orchestra, please e-mail a cover letter and resume to [email protected] or call 941-487-2704 with any questions you may have. Thank you!

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Title: Senior Director of Donor Engagement – Major Gifts
Department: Donor Engagement
Reports To: Vice President of Advancement and Strategic Initiatives
Classification: Full-time; Salary / Exempt
Supervises: None – N/A
Location: Sarasota, FL

General Overview:

Known for its unique, team-oriented fundraising culture, Sarasota Orchestra seeks to engage a Senior Director of Donor Engagement – Major Gifts to join an established and successful team of fundraising professionals. This position will focus on cultivation of major gifts, while helping to implement and execute successful Giving campaigns. This position will maintain a keen awareness of Sarasota Orchestra’s overall development program which includes annual giving, foundation and corporate giving and revenue generated from special events. This position will also support the fundraising effort for a new Sarasota Music Center facility. Work and collaborate with fellow Donor Engagement Team members to establish objectives and set goals in a culture that cares deeply about stewardship and working as part of a team of development professionals.

Responsibilities:

• Identify, cultivate, solicit and steward a portfolio of major individual donors as well as prospects to secure Major Gifts, Annual Fund support, and funding for Special Projects
• Interact with major donors, board members, and professional advisors, and participate in fundraising activities to develop relationships with constituencies
• Participate in the tracking and qualifying of new prospects, recording of gifts and development of stewardship and acknowledgement strategies
• Participate in donor cultivation and stewardship at concerts, special events, receptions and outside events
• Meet objectives and budget goals as a member of the Donor Engagement team
• As a member of the Music Center Campaign team, assist with prospect research, gift agreements, and documentation, as well as donor stewardship and cultivation strategies
• Collaborate with the Campaign team in all aspects of the major gifts program of the Capital Campaign and Annual Fund.
• Willingness to embrace other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree and seven-to-ten years of Development experience
• Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule, including some evenings and weekends
• Willingness to be hands on when needed and to assist with Development-related events to foster donor/prospect cultivation
• Ability to work with members of a team
• Excellent team player, with strong interpersonal skills
• Excellent organizational skills
• Excellent personal and written communication skills
• Knowledge in Microsoft office products, including Word and Excel, and development software preferably Tessitura
• Experience interfacing with donors, Board members and community leaders
• Excellent personal and written communication skills

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, sit, stand, walk, bend, reach, and use hands to finger, handle or feel. Repetitive motion is required while using a computer. The worker is required to have close visual acuity to perform an activity such as preparing and analyzing data and figures and viewing a computer terminal. This position requires the ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.

Working Conditions:

The job operates in a professional office environment and performing arts venues. The environment is generally moderate in temperature and noise level.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

If you are interested in this opportunity with Sarasota Orchestra, please e-mail a cover letter and resume to [email protected] or call 941-487-2704 with any questions you may have. Thank you!

Job Title: Assistant Orchestra Personnel Manager
Department: Artistic Operations
Reports To: Orchestra Personnel Manager
Classification: Full Time, Hourly / Non-Exempt
Supervises: N/A
Location: Sarasota, FL

General Overview:

The Assistant Orchestra Personnel Manager assists with day-to-day activities between Musicians, the Music Director, Guest Conductors and management. As a key administrator of the collective bargaining agreement between Sarasota Orchestra Musicians (AFM Local 427-721) and the Sarasota Orchestra, the Assistant Orchestra Personnel Manager is responsible for proper execution of the agreement. The Assistant Orchestra Personnel Manager shall nurture a respectful and positive working relationship with all employees, supporting an inclusive and respectful culture.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in engaging (hiring) per service, substitute and extra musicians
• Serve as agent/personnel representative at assigned orchestra performances and rehearsal services
• Serve as Personnel Manager for Sarasota Music Festival orchestra
• Ensure adherence to CBA by personnel office, staff, conductors and musicians
• Assist with scheduling and operational logistics of orchestra auditions
• Assist with maintaining Personnel files and databases
• Assist with preparation and submission of semi-monthly orchestral payroll
• Maintain tracking reports of per service and substitute costs
• Perform other relevant duties and additional projects as assigned. Duties and responsibilities described herein are not a comprehensive list, and additional job tasks may be assigned from time to time as necessitated by the Artistic department and business needs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in music, arts administration or comparable experience
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Highly organized with great attention to detail
• Ability to work without supervision
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Knowledge of classical music, orchestra repertoire, and instrumentation
• Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times with sensitive matters and personal information
• Ability to work flexible hours including weekends and evenings
• Understanding of Collective Bargaining Agreements and union matters a plus

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, sit, stand, walk, bend, and use hands to finger, handle or feel. Repetitive motion is required while using a computer. The worker is required to have visual acuity to perform an activity such as preparing and analyzing data and figures, viewing a computer terminal, and observing stage set-ups, temperature of rooms and warm-up facilities. This position requires the ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.

Working Conditions:

The job operates in a professional environment including performance hall and office settings. The environment is generally moderate in temperature and noise level. Must be available to work a flexible, varying work schedule weekly to include daily office hours and also able to maintain a presence at many orchestra rehearsals and performances, including nights and weekends.

If you are interested in this opportunity with Sarasota Orchestra, please e-mail a cover letter and resume to [email protected] or call 941-487-2704 with any questions you may have. Thank you!

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Title: Director of Donor Engagement – Individual Giving
Department: Donor Engagement
Reports to: SVP of Advancement & Strategic Initiatives
Classification: Full Time; Salary / Exempt
Supervises: N/A
Location: Sarasota, FL

General Overview:

As part of the Donor Engagement Team, help set strategies to engage and solicit individual gifts to the Annual Fund. Participate in fundraising events to develop relationships with constituencies, and manage a portfolio of individual and corporate donors. Work with the Donor Engagement Team to establish objectives and set goals in a culture that cares deeply about stewardship and working as part of a team of development professionals. With Donor Engagement team, help execute the Annual Fund strategy. The Director shall support a respectful and positive working relationship with all employees, patrons and customers, promoting an inclusive, respectful culture and Sarasota Orchestra values.

Responsibilities:

• Research and develop strategies for identifying new individual giving opportunities to benefit the organization
• Identify, cultivate, solicit and steward a portfolio of individual donors to secure Annual Fund and Special Event gifts
• In collaboration with the Major Gifts and Campaign team assist with identification and qualification through the Moves Management process.
• Secure new individual donors and increase contributions from renewing donors to assist in achieving the overall objectives of the organization
• Use and maintain donor database by recording donor notes and updating personal portfolio of donors
• With Sr. Dir of Development Services and Annual Fund Manager, assist with stewardship strategies for new and returning donors through thank you calls, surprise and delight and other techniques
• With Sr. Dir of Development Services, solicit and steward Orchestra Concierge portfolio donors
• Meet objectives and budget goals for Individual Giving
• Maintain keen awareness of overall development program, including annual giving, planned and endowment giving and special events
• Participate in donor cultivation and stewardship at concerts, special events, receptions and outside events
• Collaborate with all departments to ensure proper donor/sponsor acknowledgement including print, web, and electronic materials and collateral
• Willingness to embrace other duties as assigned. Duties and responsibilities described herein are not a comprehensive list, and additional job tasks may be assigned from time to time as necessitated by the Donor Engagement department and business needs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field
• 3+ years fundraising experience
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Power Point
• Database management experience – Tessitura preferred
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills
• Ability to work well in a team environment
• Ability to present information concisely and effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to organize and prioritize work
• Strong analytical skills and ability to meet deadlines
• Availability for work outside of typical office hours, including evenings and weekends
• Ability to work independently with little supervision
• Excellent interpersonal skills

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, sit, stand, walk, bend, reach, and use hands to finger, handle or feel. Repetitive motion is required while using a computer. The worker is required to have close visual acuity to perform an activity such as preparing and analyzing data and figures and viewing a computer terminal. This position requires the ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.

Working Conditions:

The job operates in a professional environment including office and performance hall settings. The environment is generally moderate in temperature and noise level.

If you are interested in this opportunity with Sarasota Orchestra, please e-mail a cover letter and resume to [email protected] or call 941-487-2704 with any questions you may have. Thank you!

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Title: Facilities Supervisor
Department: Facilities
Reports To: Director of Facilities and Special Projects
Classification: Hourly, Non-Exempt
Supervises: 1- Facility Assistant
Location: Sarasota, FL

General Overview:

Responsible for coordination of facility operations for Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center consisting of office and performance spaces. Ensure building is safe and well maintained while working within approved budgets. Maintain facility department staffing schedule and the building room schedule and reservations.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee cleaning, landscaping and year-round maintenance of the Symphony Center; ensure proper preventative maintenance is performed on building systems and structure.
• Procure and recommend contracts for maintenance and repair work to the Director of Facilities for approval.
• Ensure there is a Facilities presence on-site for all activities in the Symphony Center & ensure staff are aware of how to contact facilities in case of need or emergency.
• Assist Director of Facilities with operational and capital budget development.
• Review and approve invoices for the facilities department.
• Support Director of Facilities on building capital projects, as assigned.
• Ensure sufficient supplies are ordered for the department or building needs as required.
• Enter daily activities, including room reservations into OPAS (Orchestra Planning and Administration System)
• Maintain keys and alarm system
• Compile and distribute the weekly Facilities and Food and Beverage schedule in conjunction with Catering and Event Supervisor.
• All work will be conducted onsite at the facility; individual required to also occasionally be assigned to handle after-hours building issues as needed.
• Perform other relevant duties and additional projects as assigned. Duties and responsibilities described herein are not a comprehensive list, and additional job tasks may be assigned from time to time as necessitated by the Facilities department and business needs.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• A.A. degree or other level of higher education preferred
• 2+ years Facilities management experience required
• 2+ years Supervisory experience of personnel
• 2+ years financial reporting and budgeting experience
• Prior handyman or construction / building experience desired
• Ability to interact professionally with staff, musicians, conductors, house manager, ushers, patrons
• Flexible schedule; ability to work nights and weekends
• Computer literacy; OPAS data experience preferred but not essential (will train)
• Familiarity with building systems and project management
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Certification in CPR, First Aid and Bloodborne Pathogens, or willingness to obtain Certification
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work well in a team environment

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, sit, stand, walk, bend, crouch, push, pull, lift, use hands to finger, handle or feel, and reach with hands and arms. The worker is required to have visual acuity to view a computer terminal, determine the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of work assigned, and to make observations of the facility and structure. This position requires the ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Working Conditions:

The job operates in a professional office environment. The environment is generally moderate in temperature and noise level. The worker is subject to both inside and outside environmental conditions.

If you are interested in this opportunity with Sarasota Orchestra, please e-mail a cover letter and resume to [email protected] or call 941-487-2704 with any questions you may have. Thank you!

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Title: Director of Campaign Engagement
Department: Donor Engagement
Reports To: Senior Director of Development Services
Classification: Full-time; Salary / Exempt
Supervises: N/A
Location: Sarasota, FL

General Overview:

Sarasota Orchestra has long been a cultural beacon in the community. As the oldest continuing orchestra in Florida, we have set a regional standard for diverse performances that inspire people of all ages to experience live music. We have been the foundation for music education across generations, highlighted through both an acclaimed Youth Orchestra program that has nurtured young talent for over 65 years, and an annual music festival for emerging musical artists from around the world. This dedication to exquisite performance and first-class musical education underscores our mission to inspire and engage the community through the transformative power of music.

Known for its unique, team-oriented fundraising culture, Sarasota Orchestra seeks to engage a Director of Campaign Engagement to join an established and successful team of fundraising professionals. Working closely in collaboration with and reporting to the Vice President of Advancement and Strategic Initiatives, this role will serve as the central coordinator of executing campaign engagement activity with the community. As the Orchestra prepares for a transformational multi-year capital campaign to build a new Music Center and strengthen the endowment, this role will manage the execution of campaign events for volunteers, prospects, and senior leadership to support this historic fundraising effort. The Director of Campaign Engagement will also play an important role as a liaison with other departments that will be vital to the success of the campaign effort.

The role provides strategic support and event planning to activate the campaign with key constituencies and the broader Sarasota community, strengthening the Orchestra’s culture of philanthropy. To empower the Orchestra with a broad base of philanthropic support, the incumbent will enhance the donor engagement program across all giving levels to focus on campaign participation. This candidate will support the management of campaign engagement events in partnership with the communications and building project teams, including Groundbreaking, hard hat tours, and opening celebrations. Working closely with the donor engagement team, the incumbent will be responsible for stewarding leadership campaign gifts, including managing a Founding Donors society. The candidate will effectively cultivate, manage, and leverage campaign volunteer leadership, including Campaign Co-Chairs, a Campaign Committee, and essential campaign ambassadors within the community.

Responsibilities:

• Work closely with the Sarasota Orchestra’s Campaign Team to support stewardship of the Campaign Co-Chairs and Committee, while activating campaign participation within the Development Committee, Board of Directors, and community leaders. (25%)
• Enhance the donor engagement program with a focus on campaign activation, including donor benefits and recognition, the planning and execution of high-quality and effective campaign events, and stewardship opportunities across all giving levels. (25%)
• Oversee campaign donor naming opportunities and the creation of recognition plaques and other stewardship and communications pieces. (20%)
• Responsible for oversight and execution of all reporting for campaign commitments made in individual donor gift and pledge agreements and addendums. (15%)
• Manage and track all campaign-related stewardship and gifts for stakeholders from the CEO and Campaign Committee. (15%)
• Willingness to embrace other duties as assigned. Duties and responsibilities described herein are not a comprehensive list, and additional job tasks may be assigned from time to time as necessitated by the Donor Engagement department and business needs.

Necessary Knowledge & Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree
• 7-10 years of nonprofit development experience
• Experience supporting campaigns of $100M+
• Excellent attention to details and comfort in multi-tasking multiple deadlines as demonstrated through complex project management experience.
• Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule, including some evenings and weekends.
• Willingness to be hands on when needed, managing and executing campaign events that engage donors, prospects, and volunteer leaders.
• Strong communications skills, both oral and written.
• Experience interfacing with donors, Board members, philanthropists, and community foundations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and fundraising CRM (preferably Tessitura).
• Ability to exercise a high degree of initiative, judgment, discretion, and decision-making to achieve organizational objectives and provide best-in-class engagement of donors, volunteers, and staff.
• Excellent team player, with strong interpersonal skills.

Desired Qualifications:

• Commitment to the mission of Sarasota Orchestra – must adhere to the highest ethical standards, demonstrate an empathetic disposition and perseverance, and convey sensitivity to the needs of donors, volunteers, and staff.
• Presents a high degree of sophistication, self-confidence and self-motivation – ability to keep calm under pressure.
• Experience managing cross-team collaboration of ambitious campaign effort.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a goal-oriented team environment.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, sit, stand, walk, bend, reach, and use hands to finger, handle or feel. Repetitive motion is required while using a computer. The worker is required to have close visual acuity to perform an activity such as preparing and analyzing data and figures and viewing a computer terminal. This position requires the ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.

Working Conditions:

The job operates in a professional office environment and performing arts venues. The environment is generally moderate in temperature and noise level.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

If you are interested in this opportunity with Sarasota Orchestra, please e-mail a cover letter and resume to [email protected] or call 941-487-2704 with any questions you may have. Thank you!

Job Title: Director of Legacy Giving
Department: Donor Engagement
Reports To: Senior Director, Development Services
Classification: Full-time; Salary / Exempt
Supervises: N/A
Location: Sarasota, FL

General Overview:

Sarasota Orchestra has long been a cultural beacon in the community. As the oldest continuing orchestra in Florida, we have set a regional standard for diverse performances that inspire people of all ages to experience live music. We have been the foundation for music education across generations, highlighted through both an acclaimed Youth Orchestra program that has nurtured young talent for over 65 years, and an annual music festival for emerging musical artists from around the world. This dedication to exquisite performance and first-class musical education underscores our mission to inspire and engage the community through the transformative power of music.

Known for its unique, team-oriented fundraising culture, Sarasota Orchestra seeks to engage a Director of Legacy Giving to join an established and successful team of fundraising professionals. The incumbent will be a seasoned, collaborative, successful, and ambitious planned giving expert to play a leadership role in all activities related to the development and implementation of strategies for identifying, cultivating, and soliciting annual/major giving prospects for legacy gifts. As the Orchestra prepares for a transformational multi-year capital campaign to build a new Music Center and strengthen the endowment, this role will partner with frontline fundraisers to identify and develop engagement plans for planned giving asks to support this historic fundraising effort.

The Director of Legacy Giving will strengthen gift planning culture at the Orchestra and in the donor community and enhance Encore Society programming to increase membership and engagement. To empower the Orchestra with a broad base of philanthropic support, especially from noncash assets, the incumbent will enhance the donor engagement program across all giving levels to focus on legacy giving. This candidate will manage the communications and training strategies both externally and internally for gift planning.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain holistic and strategic gift planning processes for the Development team, including partnering with frontline fundraisers to support incorporation of planned giving into donor cultivation and solicitation strategies and serve as a resource for planned giving matters and gift conversations. (30%)
• Enhance the legacy giving program, including donor benefits and recognition, the planning and execution of high-quality and effective Encore Society events, and stewardship opportunities across all legacy giving levels. (30%)
• Oversee the gift planning communications strategy as aligned with overall donor communications creating the content for internal- and external-facing legacy giving collateral, including stewardship reporting and marketing pieces. (15%)
• Lead internal and external gift planning trainings on a regular basis with the donor engagement team, volunteer leaders, and the donor community to strengthen the gift planning culture. (15%)
• Support the tracking and management of all reporting for planned giving including the execution and stewardship according to individual donor gift and pledge agreements and addendums. (10%)
• Willingness to embrace other duties as assigned. Duties and responsibilities described herein are not a comprehensive list, and additional job tasks may be assigned from time to time as necessitated by the Donor Engagement department and business needs.

Necessary Knowledge & Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• 7+ years of nonprofit development experience, with a track record of successfully supporting and/or managing major gift and legacy giving programs.
• Knowledge of planning giving vehicles, tax guidelines, and legal requirements.
• Experience working effectively with financial advisors and attorneys.
• Demonstrated ability to achieve fundraising goals while working with prospects in all phases of development: qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule, including some evenings and weekends.
• Willingness to be hands on when needed, managing and executing legacy society and cultivation events that engage donors, prospects, and volunteer leaders.
• Strong communications skills, both oral and written.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and fundraising CRM (preferably Tessitura).
• Excellent team player, with strong interpersonal skills.

Desired Qualifications:

• Commitment to the mission of Sarasota Orchestra – must adhere to the highest ethical standards, demonstrate an empathetic disposition and perseverance, and convey sensitivity to the needs of donors, volunteers, and staff.
• Experience with capital or endowment campaigns.
• Experience training gift officers, donors, and volunteer leaders in gift planning.
• Presents a high degree of sophistication, self-confidence and self-motivation, with a track record for successfully translating strategic ideas into action and results.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a goal-oriented team environment.
• Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, sit, stand, walk, bend, reach, and use hands to finger, handle or feel. Repetitive motion is required while using a computer. The worker is required to have close visual acuity to perform an activity such as preparing and analyzing data and figures and viewing a computer terminal. This position requires the ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.

Working Conditions:

The job operates in a professional office environment and performing arts venues. The environment is generally moderate in temperature and noise level.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

If you are interested in this opportunity with Sarasota Orchestra, please e-mail a cover letter and resume to [email protected] or call 941-487-2704 with any questions you may have. Thank you!