Director of External Relations

The Director of External Relations (DER) is a new position responsible for working with the Executive Director, Artistic Director, Director of Finance and Operations, and the Board of Directors to provide strategic oversight for external affairs including fundraising, communications, marketing, media, audience development and community relations. The DER works with the Executive Director and Artistic Director to build and maintain relationships with patrons and partners on behalf of On the Boards and to raise major gifts support. The DER manages staff to devise and implement work plans to meet the goals associated with all areas of external relations.

The DER’s work focuses on strategies that drive major gifts, ticket sales, audience development, and community relations. This new position is part of a larger restructuring at OtB in anticipation of a 40th Anniversary major fundraising initiative. We anticipate slight adjustments to this position description over time. We assume this position is 50% Fundraising, 30% Marketing and Communications, 20% Audience Development and Community Relations.

• Provides leadership in fundraising, marketing, public relations, communications, and audience development. Supervises Communications Associate, Development team, and Director of Audience Services. Works with Front of House staff towards best practices and positive audience experiences.
• Serves on management team with Executive Director, Artistic Director, and Director of Finance and Operations to execute current and future artistic, financial and operational goals.
• Establishes and maintains relationships with a portfolio of businesses, community and civic leaders, supporters, and volunteers who are current and prospective partners and investors in On the Boards’ work.
• Serves as a spokesperson and ambassador for On the Boards.
• Serves as a staff lead and liaison for key Board committees and task forces. Works with Executive Director, Artistic Director, and Director of Finance and Operations to facilitate clear, consistent board communications.
• Works with Executive Director, Artistic Director, and Board Executive Leadership on Board development and cultivation of new board members. • Oversees cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of prospects and current donors of $2500 and higher, including individuals, corporations, and other partners. Supports Development Director in their creation and execution of short and longterm grant strategies.
• Plays key role in implementing 40th anniversary fundraising efforts, and works closely with temporary and consulting fundraising staff.
• Provides ongoing budget management and reporting of financial investments from donors, subscribers, and other investors. Supports Communication Associate in development and oversight of marketing and communications budgets.

Requirements:
• At least 7 years progressive fundraising responsibility
• Track record of soliciting gifts of $10,000 or more.
• Experience managing complex departmental budgets
• Audience development and marketing experience, specifically understanding ticketing and audience patterns over time.
• Ability to build a team with multiple outward-facing roles and responsibilities.
• Commitment to OtB’s Values, and to specifically increasing racial equity in the arts.
• Exceptional written and oral communications skills
• Highly tuned listening skills
• Ability to learn quickly and act both independently and as part of a team.
• Confident, professional, demonstrated passion for performance, art, and On the Boards’ mission
• Strong empathy and perseverance
• High ethical standards
• Optimistic, positive, friendly disposition
• Proven success at team management and leadership

General Information:
Status: Full-Time Exempt
Reports to: Executive Director
Supervises: Director of Development, Patron Relations Specialist, Communications Associate, and Director of Audience Services
Collaborates with: Executive Committee, Artistic Director, Campaign Staff
Compensation: $57,000 - $62,000 commensurate with experience
Benefits: Eligible for company paid medical, vision, and dental insurance as well as short-term and long-term disability, accidental death and dismemberment and life insurance. Additional benefits include a subsidized ORCA card and/or parking pass and generous paid time off including 12 holidays, vacation, and sick leave. On the Boards is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse, accessible workplace, and to supporting our staff with ongoing career development opportunities. Our building and offices are ADA accessible and we strive to make any additional accommodations. People of color, people with disabilities, women, and LGBTQ candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. Must have, or be willing to acquire, legal authorization to work in the United States.

Full job description and more information here:
https://www.ontheboards.org/sites/default/files/6.26.19_otbdirectorofexternalrelations_1.pdf