The Vice President of Development (“VPD”) will help ensure, through the overall management and direction of the development functions, an increase in support for CalArts, including its six schools, including REDCAT (Roy and Edna Disney CalArts Theater) and CAP (Community Arts Partnership), among other initiatives. The VPD will manage and build teams, have significant major and principal gifts experience, be a deft and patient communicator, be able to work well both independently and collaboratively, and be genuinely enthusiastic about, and committed to, the mission of CalArts.

Essential Job Functions

• With the partnership of the SVP and key leadership, work with the Advancement team to develop and fulfill single- and multi-year fundraising priorities and goals.
• Manage and mentor a team of development professionals with a focus on increasing fundraising results (unrestricted and restricted support).
• With the Director of Advancement Services, implement strong reporting systems and structures on which to build an integrated Advancement program.
• Manage a small portfolio of principal ($1 million and up) and major gift donors and prospects, including key Trustees.
• Collaborate with Deans, faculty, and administrators and faculty in an effort to maximize fundraising potential.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Skills/Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of major and principal gift development practices and principles, including Alumni and Parent engagement, with a record of progressive leadership and achievement in fundraising.
• A successful record of accomplishments in managing and motivating staff, fostering an environment of collaboration and empowerment.
• Outstanding leadership ability combined with a depth of intellect, diplomatic skills, and an appreciation for human dynamics.
• Prioritize the interests of the Institute ahead of personal advancement and is able to mobilize all possible resources to get the job done.
• A record of accomplishment “leading by example,” managing and coaching other development staff toward successful performance.
• Must be a driven and goal-oriented professional.
• Excellent organizational, administrative and project management skills. A decisive, “roll-up-the sleeves,” results-oriented manager who is able to keep projects moving forward within a consistent strategic framework.
• The ability to control and move forward on several priorities simultaneously.  This includes being highly adaptable in switching priorities as required, without losing momentum.
• A strong work ethic coupled with an enthusiastic and passionate approach to one’s work.
• Highly energetic with the highest ethical and professional standards.
• Exceptional interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills.
• An open, approachable interpersonal style with experience building consensus throughout an organization and with external stakeholders.
• Respect for academic shared governance, coupled with strong interpersonal and listening skills and the gravitas and ability to effectively communicate and establish credibility with a wide range of constituency groups, ranging from faculty and staff to students, alumni, donors, trustees and external partners.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google and Adobe applications.
• The highest standard of personal ethics and integrity, and a sense of humor.
• Critical thinking skills required.

Education

Hold an advanced degree, or commensurate experience.

Experience

A minimum of eight years of successful fundraising experience at a leadership level, including demonstrated effectiveness in prospect identification, solicitation, and stewardship.