Director of Development

Toronto, ON
Permanent
Full-time

22 days ago

The Director of Development is a senior leadership role at Canadian Stage, responsible for leading the organization’s fundraising strategy and contributed revenue programs.The Director of Development oversees all aspects of fundraising, including individual giving, corporate partnerships, foundation support, special events, and campaign strategy. Leading a dedicated development team, the successful candidate will guide a comprehensive program currently generating approximately $3 million annually, with a clear opportunity for growth to $4–5 million in the coming years.This position is both strategic and hands-on. The Director will actively manage a portfolio of major donors and prospects, cultivate meaningful relationships, and lead high-level solicitations, while also strengthening systems, processes, and team performance across the department. The role will also partner closely with Board members and senior volunteers to expand networks and deepen philanthropic engagement.Canadian Stage is in a strong and stable position, with a well-established development program and a growing base of loyal supporters. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced fundraising leader who is energized by building relationships, driving results, and contributing to the continued growth of one of Canada’s leading performing arts organizations.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESFundraising Strategy & Revenue Growth

Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive fundraising strategy to grow contributed revenue from approximately $3M to $4–5M annually
Identify and prioritize opportunities across individual giving, corporate partnerships, foundations, events, and campaigns
Align fundraising strategies with Canadian Stage’s artistic vision and organizational priorities
Monitor performance against revenue goals, adjusting strategies to ensure continued growth and success

Major Gifts & Donor Relationships

Serve as a senior frontline fundraiser, managing a portfolio of major and principal gift donors and prospects
Develop and implement thoughtful cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies to deepen engagement and increase giving
Lead high-level solicitations, including five- and six-figure gifts
Build long-term, trust-based relationships with donors, ensuring a highly personalized and meaningful donor experience

Team Leadership & Development Operations

Lead, mentor, and support a high-performing development team, fostering a collaborative, accountable, and positive culture
Provide clear direction, structure, and coaching to ensure team members meet individual and departmental goals
Oversee day-to-day development operations, including planning, budgeting, reporting, and internal coordination
Ensure effective systems and processes are in place to support donor tracking, pipeline management, and reporting

Board & Volunteer Engagement

Partner closely with the Board of Directors and senior volunteers to support fundraising efforts and expand networks
Equip and guide Board members in donor cultivation and solicitation activities
Support the effective engagement of Board committees and volunteers in achieving fundraising goals

Events, Campaigns & Partnerships

Oversee the strategy and execution of major fundraising initiatives, including signature events such as TheatreBall
Strengthen and expand relationships with corporate sponsors and foundation partners
Identify and develop new opportunities for campaigns, partnerships, and philanthropic growth
Ensure fundraising events and initiatives are strategically aligned, well-executed, and financially successful

Systems, Strategy & Organizational Leadership

Contribute as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, supporting organizational planning and decision-making
Strengthen a culture of philanthropy across Canadian Stage, engaging staff, artists, and stakeholders in fundraising efforts
Ensure the development function operates with strong systems, clear processes, and high standards of execution
Collaborate across departments to integrate fundraising into the broader life and work of the organization

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