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OVERVIEW
SPACES is the resource and public forum for artists who explore and experiment. We commission artists from around the world—at all stages of their careers—to make new work that is responsive to timely issues. Through our Residency & Exhibition Programs we provide compensation, support, and access to resources for cultural producers who immerse themselves in Cleveland for up to eight weeks. Additionally, we provide support to local artists through re-granting initiatives and connect to the diverse communities of Cleveland through strong partnerships.
SPACES is a 44-year old nonprofit organization founded by artists to experiment with the creation of non-commercially oriented art and to engage the public in a vital dialogue about the topics explored. It continues to be a space where artists have the freedom to research new ideas, media, and ways to engage the community. SPACES has a strong track record of rethinking the ways in which an organization can support artists in their practice and in materializing their ideas.
The annual operating budget of SPACES is nearly $800,000. The staff includes 5 full-time employees, 1 part-time employee, 1-2 interns, 4 contracted employees/agencies, and volunteers who provide support throughout the year. A Board of Directors reflects a diverse range of expertise and perspectives. Infused throughout our work is a commitment to equitable access to art and art funding.
POSITION SUMMARY
SPACES seeks a Development Director that will have the drive to propel the organization forward and realize its potential—specifically as it relates to our development work. Reporting to, and working closely alongside, SPACES’ Executive Director, the Development Director will be responsible for critical administrative, financial, and fundraising operations. The Development Director will develop financial tools; guide operational and programmatic budgeting; assist with program development as it overlaps with fundraising; and contribute to strategic planning. The Development Director must be willing to take on new tasks and challenges as they arise, as well as serve as an ambassador for SPACES its many constituents. Importantly, they must be able to navigate this role through a lens of racial equity and social justice, as we advance the organization’s mission as the resource and public forum for artists who explore and experiment.
Responsibilities
The Development Director will work with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, staff, interns, contracted services, and volunteers on the following responsibilities:
Create and implement annual development plan
Support the ongoing Capital Campaign efforts and special fundraising efforts
Evaluate progress toward goals, prepare periodic reports, and recommend revisions to the fundraising plan, as needed
Cultivate and nurture relationships with corporate sponsors, foundations, and individual donors to secure financial support
Oversee the expansion of donor prospects via research of foundation, corporate, and government funding sources including grants, sponsorships, in-kind donations, and gifts
Coordinate preparation of funding proposals and associated reports, including drafting and/or editing narratives and budgets for timely submission
Track the use of grant funds to their restrictions by monitoring expenses and account, class, and grant assignments
Ensure public recognition for donors
Work closely with bookkeeper, accountant, auditor, executive director, and board executive committee to manage the preparation of SPACES audits
Organize the Annual Benefit and other special events throughout the year, including attending regular meetings with ad hoc committees, soliciting sponsorship requests, and interfacing with programming staff as they solicit participation from artists
Monitor donor database for accuracy of data entry and gift processing
Administer and analyze data collection for support requests and reporting
Coordinate and cooperate with other SPACES employees to ensure the success of our artists, programs, and partnerships
Assume additional responsibilities as needed in a small office setting
Requirements
The ideal candidate will have:
Some prior fundraising experience
Proven fluency in budget preparation, management, reporting, and cost control
Experience with nonprofit operations
Excellent speaking, writing, and interpersonal skills
The ability to meet deadlines, delegate authority when appropriate, and be hands-on as needed
A willingness to connect with leaders in the art communities around Cleveland and an enthusiasm for supporting bold experimentation in the visual arts
Familiarity with accounting software, databases, and data entry in programs (ie. Excel, Quickbooks).
Significant work experience in a relevant field (accounting, fundraising, etc)