Senior Director, Annual Programs and Planned Giving
The Royal Conservatory of Music (‘RCM’) is one of the largest and most respected music education institutions in the world, providing the definitive standard of excellence in curriculum design, assessment, performance training, and teacher certification. It is also a leader in the development of early childhood education programs and arts-based social programs, and presents a diverse range of concerts featuring the finest Canadian and international artists in its magnificent performance space, Koerner Hall. Please visit www.rcmusic.com for more information.
What is the Opportunity?
The Senior Director, Annual Programs and Planned Giving is responsible for planning, implementing, and overseeing the full range of annual giving programs, including individual support, corporate sponsorships and donations, foundation support, annual appeals, and events. The incumbent is also responsible for developing and advancing a comprehensive planned giving program for The Royal Conservatory.
Reporting to the Vice President, Development, the incumbent of this role will work alongside the Senior Director, Major Gifts and Stewardship and the Senior Director, Development Services to jointly lead the activities of the Department.
Main Duties & Responsibilities
- In conjunction with the Vice President, Development, plan and implement initiatives in support of annual fundraising programs.
- Direct and oversee activities for the annual giving programs, including individual, corporate and foundation support, fundraising and stewardship events, and annual appeals.
- Develop strategies and implement plans to plan, implement and manage a comprehensive planned giving program.
- Cultivate, solicit, and steward a personal portfolio of key donors and prospects.
- Negotiate and oversee key corporate partnerships, positioning the Conservatory as a significant sponsorship opportunity alongside other leading organizations in the arts and culture sector.
- Guide and support the activities of senior level volunteers involved with corporate fundraising through the Koerner Hall Committee.
- Collaborate with the Manager, Corporate and Foundation Partnerships and Manager, Development Communications to create compelling proposals.
- Oversee initiatives to generate broad-based support for the Conservatory, such as the Dean’s Fund Challenge, Koerner Hall Seat Naming, and the Fund for Koerner Hall.
- Analyze and monitor progress toward established goals; recommend adjustments as required in order to meet targets.
- Incorporate a moves management system of tracking and accountability.
- Plan and develop annual and project-based budgets.
- Coach and mentor the Annual Giving team.
- Provide external industry knowledge, monitor trends in the philanthropic environment and implement best practices as appropriate.
- Performing other duties as required.
What We’re Looking For
- Skill in developing and implementing successful strategies for the identification, cultivation, and solicitation of donors within annual fund programs.
- Significant experience working in an annual fund and major gifts environment.
- Demonstrated ability to identify and develop donor relationships and clear evidence of ability to close gifts.
- Driven to achieve success and meet financial targets.
- Demonstrated experience with proposal development, including strategy, writing, and design.
- Previous leadership experience and strong management skills.
- Proven ability to motivate, coach, and inspire staff.
- Exceptional collaborative and interpersonal skills, with ability to work with and through others using influence and persuasion.
- A results-oriented focus, a driven attitude and an entrepreneurial approach to fundraising and problem solving.
- Strong time management skills; capable of effectively and successfully managing multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.
- Previous experience working in a complex organizational environment.
- Strong communication skills (oral and written).
- Exceptional planning, execution, and organizational skills, with an emphasis on detail and accuracy.
- Excels in an environment of change and ambiguity.
- Reputation for integrity and high ethical standards.
- A professional and exceptional donor-centric service approach.
- University degree preferred.
- CFRE designation or equivalent is an asset.
Additional Information
- Office environment with flexibility to work outside of regular office hours to accompany donors, sponsors, and prospects to performances.
- Hybrid work arrangement in place, operating out of the Development Office as required.
- This role is responsible for a team of three (3) direct reports.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are asked to submit a cover letter and current résumé online (please upload a single file combining both documents) at www.rcmusic.com/about-us/careers-royal-conservatory. Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate has been identified.
The RCM is committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable and accessible workplace. In accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, and the RCM’s Anti-Racism, Access and Equity Policy, accommodation will be provided at any stage of in the recruitment and selection process. Applicants are asked to make their accommodation needs known when they have been contacted for an interview.
The RCM thanks all applicants for their interest in this position; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.