Associate Director of Development Communications & Grants

Overview

Penn Live Arts at the University of Pennsylvania connects diverse audiences with visionary artists and innovative ideas, engaging both the University and the greater Philadelphia community in transformative artistic experiences.

Reporting to the Director of Development, the Assistant Director of Development Communications is responsible for producing unique and compelling development messaging for Penn Live Arts’ fund-raising programs. This will include major gift level funding proposals for individual and institutional donors, cultivation and solicitation materials, case and program materials for new initiatives, senior leadership remarks, development of print and digital collateral materials and stewardship communications. In addition to primary writing responsibilities, this position will be responsible for managing Penn Live Arts’ institutional funding portfolio, including front-facing relationship cultivation, research and development of potential new funding streams, and building an infrastructure and platform for corporate sponsorships.

Job Responsibilities

• Primary responsibility for producing funding proposals for institutional and individual donors, cultivation and solicitation materials, case and program materials for new initiatives, senior leadership remarks, development of print and digital collateral materials, and stewardship reports and communications.
• Front-line cultivation and relationship management with institutional donors and prospects, including regular and strategic communications, invitations to events, and proactive requests for meetings.
• Research and development of new institutional funding opportunities, including further development and growth of PLA’s corporate sponsorship platform and deck and liaison with the Department of Marketing and Communications to ensure fulfillment of any recognition or tangible benefits to institutional funders.
• Management of the Center’s institutional funding calendar and deadlines, including maintaining records in Compass and Tessitura, Penn Live Arts’ two database platforms

Superior writing and editing skills with strength in understanding and translating concepts into relevant, compelling, and engaging prose. Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact comfortably and effectively with colleagues, individual and institutional donors, sponsors, volunteers, and other constituents. Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills and the ability to multi-task, prioritize, and follow through on a variety of concurrent projects. Creative self-starter with the capacity to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, goal-oriented environment. Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Windows, Excel, and Word. Compass (Salesforce) and Tessitura familiarity is a plus. Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed.

Affirmative Action Statement 
Penn adheres to a policy that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected class.