Director of Development

About Rubicon Theatre Company

Rubicon Theatre Company is a nationally respected award-winning organization with a 25-year history of producing innovative live professional theatre in Ventura’s Downtown Cultural District. The company produces a mainstage season of dramas, comedies and musicals, a Ventura LIVE concert and variety series, a robust new play development program, and summer education camps for the entertainment and enrichment of local residents and visitors to California’s Central Coast. Rubicon has served more than 500,000 patrons in an intimate 185-seat former church, employs 11 dedicated and impassioned full-time staff members, and has an annual budget of $2.5 million. The organization is governed by an active and engaged Board of Directors and supported by a Board of Advisors and volunteer auxiliary, Rubicon is currently preparing to embark on a capital and comprehensive campaign particularly focused on accessibility, parking and infrastructure needs.

Position Summary

The Development Director will work closely with the Producing Artistic Director, the Board of Directors, and various staff members to develop and implement short- and long-term strategies aimed at promoting organizational growth and achieving sustainable funding.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Form and lead a Development Committee comprising members of the Board of Directors, Board of Advisors, and select community members.
• Collaboratively develop and execute short- and long-term fundraising goals and strategies.
• Implement and execute an annual fundraising plan to meet fundraising goals.
• Manage a portfolio of donors.
• Maintain and strengthen relationships with current donors.
• Identify and cultivate relationships with potential new donors.
• Actively promote Rubicon Theatre Company within the community.
• Develop and manage a Capital Campaign
• Collaborate with staff and departments to integrate marketing and communication strategies.
• Work closely with off-site grant manager to identify grant opportunities and prepare grant applications.
• Perform other duties as appropriate.

Work Hours and Benefits

• This position is in-person, full-time exempt.
• Regular business hours are 9 am-6 pm Monday through Friday.
• Flexibility is required for this position as we often work evening and weekend events such as fundraisers, opening nights, and other development-related events.
• Benefits include:
• 2-weeks paid vacation every year
• 9 paid holidays
• Health insurance

Education and Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree preferred; advanced degree or ongoing professional development is a plus.
• Minimum five years of fundraising or non-profit experience.
• Previous management experience is a plus.
• Proven track record of meeting fundraising goals and securing major gifts.
• Significant professional experience with non-profits, particularly in the arts, is highly desired.

Skills Requirements

• Strong professional communication, writing, and management skills.
• Proven ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects from inception to completion.
• Competency in gathering information and preparing grant applications and reports.
• Effective problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in making professional presentations to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Enthusiasm for promoting Rubicon Theatre Company at social activities.
• Applied understanding of basic fundraising principles and development best practices.
• Strong prospect identification and qualification skills.
• Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading ability.
• Strong interpersonal, verbal communication, and presentation skills.
• Database and spreadsheet proficiency.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook).
• Experience with online fundraising, email marketing, and internet research.

Compensation

$85,000 to $115,000 per year DOE, plus benefits.

Apply

To apply, please submit below or email your resume to [email protected]. We look forward to learning more about you and how you can contribute to the continued success of Rubicon Theatre Company.

Culture

At Rubicon Theatre Company, we celebrate the beauty of diversity in all its forms. We believe that every individual brings a unique perspective and valuable contribution to our community.

We are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where all people feel respected, valued, and heard. We embrace differences in race, ethnicity, nationality, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ability, religion, and socio-economic background.

Through our productions, outreach programs, and daily interactions, we strive to promote empathy, understanding, and unity. We actively seek to amplify voices that have been historically marginalized or underrepresented in the arts.

Join us as we continue a journey towards a future where inclusivity is not just a statement, but a guiding principle in all that we do.