Portland Ovations is a vibrant non-profit performing arts organization in Portland, Maine connecting artists and audiences through a diverse array of arts experiences onstage and off. With performances in classical, pop, and jazz; traditional, classical, and contemporary dance; and theater ranging from solo tour-de-forces to Broadway National Tours, Ovations aims to make the performing arts an integral part of everyday life. Our dedicated team is at the heart of Portland’s Arts District. Ovations has a long history of collaborating with other arts organizations, schools, community service organizations, and local businesses and strongly believes that engagement in the arts is part of how we support the wellbeing of our communities.

The Development Manager holds a central role in contributing to Ovations’ robust Membership program through the creative and strategic oversight of Member relations, communications, and events. With the support and guidance of leadership, the Development Manager is the heartbeat of Ovations’ Member engagement strategy, fostering deep connections and sustaining an enthusiastic, vibrant community. They serve as the dynamic force ensuring our Members know they are valued and integral to Ovations’ mission and success

Member Engagement

• Collaborate with the Associate Director and marketing team to develop strategies for Member growth and retention.
• Create personalized engagement plans and maintain accurate records of Members in the CRM system.
• Develop and edit Member communications, including newsletters, solicitations, and acknowledgement letters, ensuring consistent messaging and branding.
• Design impactful Membership materials such as appeals, renewals, social media posts, and campaign content.
• Stay updated on best practices in development and Member relationship management through workshops, conferences, and training, while building a professional network for collaboration and growth.

Event Management

• Participate in the planning, coordination, and hosting of donor events, including the annual fundraiser, Season Announcement, and Member lounges.
• Develop and implement communication strategies in collaboration with the Associate Director and marketing team to promote special events.
• Oversee the annual fundraiser auction and associated digital platforms, ensuring smooth execution and maximizing revenue.
• Make outreach and manage potential sponsors, event hosts, and restaurant vendors.
• Manage event logistics, including venue details, catering, and performances.

Additional Responsibilities

• Serve as an Ovations ambassador at live performances and special events.
• Provides additional support to the development team as necessary.
• Perform additional tasks as requested.

Education, Skills, and Experience

• Three years of nonprofit development/communications experience.
• Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, experience with Tessitura or other donor management software, and proficiency with Microsoft Office suite of applications.
• Excellent writing and interpersonal skills that foster productive and collaborative relationships.
• Ability to work independently, but also able to seek or offer assistance.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Experience with campaigns a plus.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

Most work is performed in an office environment not subject to extremes of noise, temperature, odor, etc. Operates computers, printers, and other office equipment. Work involves extended time at a desk, computer use, and small muscle tasks. Other work includes periods of extensive standing, walking, and moving around offsite venues, both inside and outside. Lifting and carrying of equipment, materials, and supplies may be required, with varying weights. Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends for performances, is required. Travel is necessary to attend off-site events. Must have a valid ME driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Compensation and Benefits

The expected pay for this position is $50,000-$55,000 per annum. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, budget availability, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Benefits include paid time off, thirteen paid holidays, medical and dental insurance, simple IRA with employer match, and a flexible work schedule. Parking is provided by Ovations at a nearby garage. Complimentary access to Ovations performances.

Our Values

Portland Ovations is committed to being anti-racist and values equity and social justice for all. We celebrate, support, and learn from our differences and believe an inclusive and diverse workplace creates a thriving organization benefiting our employees, our programs, and our communities. Ovations is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes applications from candidates demonstrating diversity of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, and national origin. Portland Ovations is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

How to Apply

Please send an email with a cover letter and resume to info@portlandovations.org with a subject line of Development Manager. Review of resumes will commence on July 15th but will continue until the position is filled.

Position: Development Manager

Reports to: Associate Director

Salary: $50,000-$55,000 per annum

Status: Exempt

Hours: Full-time, 40 hrs. per week

Hours of Operation: Variable; includes nights and weekends during performance season.

Location: Portland, Maine. Onsite, with option to work a hybrid schedule