Development Officer

Job Overview:
Key responsibilities:
The Development Officer plays a key role within a dynamic team that meets or exceeds annual revenue targets and supports fundraising initiatives.

FUNDRAISING Sponsorship:

- In consultation with the Director of Development, establish annual sponsorship goals (including strategies, activities and revenue targets);
- In collaboration with the Public Engagement team, research and identify WSO’s programs, special projects and streaming programs suitable for corporate sponsorship or support;
- Be a direct point of contact with the WSO for many corporate sponsors;
- Be part of the team that initiates or identifies new and innovative sponsorship opportunities for WSO programs and products, the Sistema program, music education and leadership programs, regional and international touring and other innovative opportunities within the orchestra milieu and with the WSO in particular;
- Identify new prospects, prepare proposals and solicit support in the community, including matching relationships with WSO Board and senior staff to potential sponsors;
- Manage sponsorship agreements including research, sponsor report cards, benefit activation, stewardship and tracking in Tessitura;
- Draft correspondence and communications to sponsors and selected donors;
- Contribute to grant writing and proposals for government funding and foundations as required.

EVENTS:
In collaboration with the Public Engagement team, support the planning and execution of annual fundraising events.

RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT:
In collaboration with the development team, assist with the WSO’s annual stewardship program so that select relationships with sponsors and other key stakeholders are maintained.
- Provide support to the WSO’s Development Committee and in specified relationships within the Board Executive and the President’s Advisory Council of the WSO;
- Support stewardship of sponsors, with special focus on renewing existing relationships and achieving multi-year sponsorship agreements and ensure specified benefits are delivered;
- As required, ensure sponsor profiles are updated, monitor activity and mine data.

**Qualifications**:
1. Skills, Abilities and Knowledge

i. Current knowledge of fund development theory, principles, ethics and practices;
ii. Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to write complex proposals and reports;
iii. Knowledge of promotions and marketing practices and techniques;
iv. Knowledge of businesses, corporations, foundations and other funding agencies in Manitoba and Canada;
v. Experience with corporate sponsorships and stewardship programs including managing designated volunteers;
vi. Ability to work both independently and as a team member on multiple projects and priorities;
vii. Professionalism, diplomacy and ability to influence, negotiate, and secure the cooperation of others;
viii. Strong commitment and ability to maintain confidentiality;
ix. Strong organizational skills, solid judgement, initiative, creativity, diplomacy and discretion in working with the community of donors, sponsors and governments;
x. Knowledge of the performing arts, and the ability to work within a high pressure environment with multiple deadlines;
xi. Hands-on ability with MS Suite programs, databases and fundraising software.

2. Education, Training and Experience

i. Minimum of a certificate in a recognized fundraising program (a degree/diploma would be considered an asset);
ii. Five years of related experience.

This full-time position may require some evening and weekend work.

The WSO welcomes all qualified applicants and highly values inclusion, diversity and equity.

Salary will be in the range of $50,000 - $62,000, commensurate with experience. WSO staff are eligible for a full benefits plan including matching RRSP contribution program. The WSO offers excellent opportunities for growth and advancement within the organization.

**Job Types**: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $50,000.00-$62,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person