Director of Development at Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras in Madison, Wisconsin

Job Description:

Aspen Leadership Group is proud to partner with Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras in the search for a Director of Development.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Development will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras through strategic fundraising leadership, planning, and community engagement. Working closely with the Executive Director, the Director of Development will develop a comprehensive fundraising program that achieves revenue growth and sustainability, supports operational needs, and inspires endowment growth. The Director of Development will cultivate strong relationships with the Board of Directors, leveraging their talents and resources, while crafting compelling communication materials that promote WYSO's programs. With a focus on identifying new funding sources, managing a major gifts program, and overseeing grant proposals, the Director of Development will ensure effective planning and management of all development initiatives. As a key spokesperson for WYSO, the Director of Development will engage with the community and collaborate on strategies that elevate WYSO's presence and impact. Through a best-in-class donor stewardship program, the Director of Development will enhance relationships with alumni, parents, and friends, ensuring ongoing support for and engagement with the mission of Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras.

More than 5,000 young musicians from communities throughout south central Wisconsin have participated in Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras during its 50+ years of existence. Under the artistic direction of Kyle Knox, WYSO includes three full orchestras, two string orchestras, a chamber music program, a harp program, a percussion ensemble, a brass choir program, and the WYSO Music Makers program. WYSO enriches lives by providing transformational musical experiences and opportunities. Through their involvement with WYSO, young people are inspired to sustain a lifelong connection with music and to strive for personal excellence in music as well as in life. Each year WYSO offers a full array of the finest instrumental training and performance opportunities to young musicians between the ages of five and 18. Three full orchestras, two string orchestras, and a variety of ensemble programs from Harp to Percussion to Brass Choir form the core of the WYSO Orchestral Program.

For the first time in its history, WYSO has its own home at 1118 East Washington Avenue. The new $33 million building adds to a growing youth arts corridor on the near east side of Madison, and joins the Madison Youth Arts Center, Madison Youth Choirs, and the Children's Theater of Madison. Construction on the project began nearly two years ago, and WYSO was able to begin occupying the building in December 2023. Collectively, philanthropists donated $22.7 million to the project, with $5.8 million contributed by 200 other community members. The building's design is intentional, outfitted with community spaces, sound-proofing technology, and rehearsal rooms that have acoustics suited for music-making.

A bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least five years of fundraising or business development experience, preferably within the nonprofit performing arts sector, is preferred for this position. Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras will consider candidates with a broad range of backgrounds. If you are excited about this role and feel that you can contribute to WYSO, but your experience does not exactly align with every qualification listed above, we encourage you to apply. All applications must be accompanied by a cover letter and rsum. Cover letters should be responsive to the mission of Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras as well as the responsibilities and qualifications presented in the prospectus.

The salary range for this position is $100,000 to $115,000 annually.

Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras is committed to the inclusion of all qualified candidates. If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or participating in the selection process, please contact Marianna DiVietro atmariannadivietro@aspenleadershipgroup.com.

To apply for this position, visit:https://opportunities.aspenleadershipgroup.com/opportunities/2600.

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