The Opportunity

Kidznotes invites applications for its next Director of Development – an experienced development professional who believes in the power of music to change lives. This role is ideal for a creative and strategic fundraiser excited to execute a comprehensive development program that supports accessible, high-quality music education for youth.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Development will be responsible for implementing a robust fundraising strategy to support the organization’s growth. This includes managing a portfolio of individual donors, leading grant writing efforts, executing special events, and fostering a culture of philanthropy among staff and board leadership.

This is an opportunity to join a joyful, equity-centered organization with deep community roots and a bold vision for the future.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy and Execution

• Lead the implementation of a multi-channel fundraising plan to grow revenue from individuals, foundations, corporations, government, and events
• Manage and grow a portfolio of major donors, coordinating cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship activities
• Partner with the Executive Director and board to engage, solicit, and steward philanthropic supporters
• Oversee fundraising communications and campaigns across platforms, including social media, newsletters, and appeals
• Track key performance indicators to evaluate fundraising effectiveness and report regularly to leadership and the board

Donor Stewardship and Events

• Ensure timely acknowledgment and recognition of all gifts and donor touchpoints
• Plan and execute special events, including the annual gala and donor cultivation gatherings
• Foster a culture of philanthropy across staff and board through training and support

Grants Management

• Identify and pursue grant opportunities aligned with programmatic priorities
• Write compelling proposals and submit timely reports
• Coordinate with external grant writers as needed, ensuring alignment with Kidznotes’ mission and goals
• Collaborate with program and finance staff to gather data and budget information for proposals

Development Operations

• With support from the Coordinator of Finance and Operations, maintain accurate donor records and reporting using Kidznotes’ CRM, DonorPerfect
• Incorporate new technologies to streamline fundraising operations and expand reach
• Uphold data integrity and compliance with all fundraising policies and practices

About the Organization
Kidznotes advances social change by providing free orchestral training to children in under-resourced communities. They believe in the transformative power of music to foster lifelong learners and create stronger communities. Kidznotes’ core values – Collaboration, Empowerment, Rigor, Diversity, and Joy – guide their programs and workplace culture.

Kidznotes currently employs three full-time staff and 19 part-time teaching artists and interns and is governed by a 13-member board of directors.

Want to know more? Visit the Kidznotes’ website at www.kidznotes.org.

Additional Preferred Attributes

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in nonprofit development, with a track record in individual giving, grant writing, and donor communications
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft persuasive messages tailored to diverse audiences
• Knowledge of donor databases (e.g., DonorPerfect) and fundraising analytics
• A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with experience applying these principles to fundraising strategy and relationship building
• A proactive, flexible work style and ability to thrive in a small, collaborative team
• Ability to maintain a flexible hybrid work schedule with regular presence in the Durham area

Think you are the next Director of Development for Kidznotes?

To apply, scroll to the bottom of this page. You will see instructions for uploading your compelling cover letter, resume, and salary requirements. Please provide all requested information to be considered. In case of any technical problems, contact talent@armstrongmcguire.com. No phone calls, please, and no applications will be accepted by email or directly from third-party posting sites.

Review of candidates will begin in July and continue until the position is filled.

Salary is in the $75K range and is commensurate with the requirements of the position. Kidznotes offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Kidznotes also provides opportunities for career growth such as access to professional development resources and training programs.

Kidznotes is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace. Kidznotes values diversity across all lines of difference and does not discriminate based on race, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, national origin, disability, or any other protected status.

All applicants and staff are expected to maintain the confidentiality of privileged information relating to Kidznotes’ donors, strategies, and internal operations. Unauthorized disclosure of confidential information may result in disciplinary action and legal consequences.