Director of Development

ABOUT PITTSBURGH BALLET THEATRE (PBT): 

Founded in 1969, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s mission is to be Pittsburgh’s source and ambassador for extraordinary ballet experiences that give life to the classical tradition, nurture new ideas and, above all, inspire. PBT provides high-caliber ballet performances and rich educational opportunities to audiences in the downtown Cultural District and in community-based settings throughout the Pittsburgh region. The company is known for its bold, athletic, and adventurous artistic vision, as well as for its diverse repertoire of classics and new works. PBT is committed to building an organizational culture of inclusivity, collaboration and innovation.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director of Development will serve as Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s lead fundraiser and oversee all development efforts. The successful candidate will have a proven record of collaborating with executive leadership, boards, committees, and other key stakeholders to foster a culture of philanthropy and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies that expand and engage a diverse donor base.

The Director of Development will be skilled in major-gift cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship; the planning and execution of fundraising and donor-engagement events; and serving as a compelling ambassador and spokesperson for PBT.

Key Internal Relationships: Holds accountability to both the Executive Director and Artistic Director and serves as a key member of the senior leadership team. Leads and manages the Development team and works closely with the Board of Trustees and its Development Committee. Collaborates extensively with the marketing, finance, artistic, education, and administrative teams.

Key External Relationships: Serves as a primary relationship manager for current and prospective individual donors, foundations, corporate partners and sponsors, government funders, and other institutional supporters. Develops relationships with community partners, philanthropic leaders, fundraising consultants, and other external stakeholders to advance PBT’s contributed-revenue goals and strengthen its presence within the community.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop, manage, and actively participate in a comprehensive fundraising strategy aligned with PBT’s mission, vision, and strategic priorities.
• Build and deepen relationships with current and prospective donors and institutional partners, with a particular focus on major gifts.
• Manage a portfolio of high-value donors, stakeholders, and prospects.
• Partner with PBT’s Board of Trustees and its committees to establish and advance strategic fundraising goals.
• Prepare and manage the annual Development budget, including revenue goals, departmental expenses, and cash-flow projections; monitor results monthly, identify variances, and update forecasts in partnership with Finance.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the development team; establish performance goals and monitor results.
• Collaborate with department directors and organizational leadership to achieve shared strategic goals.
• Oversee fundraising and cultivation events, including the Pointe in Time Gala, Dinner En Pointe, the annual Hartwood Acres Picnic in the Park, invited rehearsals, and other donor-engagement opportunities.
• Serve as an ambassador for PBT within the community and cultivate meaningful relationships with donors, partners, and other stakeholders.
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to PBT’s mission and values, including its commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

COMPETENCIES, SKILLS, AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Five to Ten years of successful fundraising experience, including demonstrated success with major gifts and capital campaigns; planned-giving experience.
• Strong, clear communication and collaboration skills, including an aptitude for writing, public speaking, interpersonal communication and running effective meetings, including presentations to board and stakeholder groups.
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop a fundraising team.
• Experience securing support from government, corporate, foundation, and other institutional funders.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects, effectively.
• Experience with a CRM system; Tessitura experience is preferred.
• Performing arts or regional fundraising experience is preferred.
• Local travel, as well as night and weekend work. Valid driver's license and/or reliable transportation is required. 

WHY PBT

Join a collaborative, mission-driven organization dedicated to creating transformative ballet experiences and making dance accessible to the Pittsburgh community. PBT offers:

• Competitive compensation
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance eligibility after 60 days of employment
• Short- and long-term disability benefits
• A 403(b) retirement plan with employer match
• Competitive paid time off and paid holidays
• The opportunity to contribute to one of Pittsburgh’s leading arts organizations
• Everyone at PBT is a vital team member. Your ideas and your work will impact our students, the organization and the promotion of the art form in our region and beyond

Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This position is a full-time position located in Pittsburgh, PA. This is not a remote position, though PBT does support hybrid work arrangements. All candidates must live in or be willing to relocate to the region.

Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We provide employment opportunities without regard to age, race, ancestry, national origin, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. We will help ensure a comfortable and positive interview experience for applicants. Please let us know how we can accommodate you.