Development Manager

Washington Concert Opera exists to provide a secure home for rarely performed operatic masterpieces, to give established artists the opportunity to perform in debut roles as well as signature roles, and to introduce the exceptional talents of emerging artists.

Washington Concert Opera is an established non-profit organization that presents two operas in concert format each season at Lisner Auditorium, on the campus of George Washington University. Additionally, WCO provides education and outreach programs for the DC community and holds special events throughout the year. The Development Manager is central to all WCO fundraising activities and will manage the annual fund, grant writing, and special events. This position also serves as a key member of the WCO staff and an active participant in decisions affecting the organization. Some weekend and evening work is required.

• General Administration: Hold primary responsibility for maintenance of donor database, ensure gifts are acknowledged and processed in a timely fashion, and maintain calendar of grant and funding deadlines.
• Research: Explore new and continuing funding opportunities from government, corporate, foundation, and private donor sources.
• Writing: Compose letters of inquiry, reports and, in consultation with the Executive Director, write funding proposals.
• Special events: Coordinate special events. For larger events, work closely with Event Committee and WCO staff. For smaller events, take lead position in planning and organization of the event.
• Fund Management: Hold main responsibility for the annual fund solicitations, including Year and Season End appeals/requests. Support Executive Director in cultivation and stewardship of current, lapsed, and prospective donors.

• Bachelor’s degree in related field
• 2-3 years experience in fundraising and development, non-profit arts organization preferred
• Experience with fundraising database software (PatronManager preferred)
• Proficiency in MS Office and web-based platforms (Dropbox, GoogleDrive)
• Excellent oral and written communication, and project management, skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to nurture and maintain relationships with stakeholders
• Ability to work independently: entrepreneurial self-starter who is comfortable in a team-oriented setting
• Outgoing, energetic, and positive personality
• Passion for the organization, and interest in music, particularly opera