NOW HIRING: Development Officer

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Development Officer

Position status: Part-time, 18 hours per week

Commencement: January/February 2025

Reports to: Director

Salary package: $80,000 per annum pro-rata + superannuation guarantee (currently 11.5%)

 

About Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts

Umbrella is a leading independent platform for contemporary and experimental arts practice operating on Wulgurukaba and Bindal Country (Townsville, North Queensland).

We have a four-decade legacy of bringing art and audiences together. We amplify critical and creative voices, support communities, incubate creativity and collaboration, and advocate for new models and investment in the arts.

We believe in the power of commune, bringing together diverse voices and perspectives of our region and beyond. In dialogue, through creative arts practices, we transgress traditional place-based hierarchies of centre and periphery. We nourish curiosity, exploration, and more profound experiences with the region and all its peoples. We acknowledge the beauty of the in-between spaces. We invite partnership and collaboration to create encounters and meaning in a complex world.

Umbrella runs an annual program of onsite and touring exhibitions, public programs, arts residencies, studio access, professional development programs, special events and a biennial festival, Pop Up North Queensland (PUNQ). Umbrella is integral to our region’s thriving culture and creative economy.

Vision
To be an inclusive platform for independent, experimental contemporary arts practice in a globalised dialogue.

Mission
To express and amplify our distinctive and authentic North Queensland voices.

 

About the Role

As the Development Officer, you will play a pivotal role in advancing Umbrella's mission to express and amplify our distinctive and authentic North Queensland voices. Building on the recent growth of Umbrella’s private sector income, you will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive fundraising strategy. You will collaborate closely with the Director, Management Committee members, and staff to build and maintain relationships with donors, sponsors, and partners.

Responsibilities:

Fundraising Strategy Development

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan, including annual giving, major gifts, corporate sponsorships, grant writing, and fundraising events.
• Identify new funding opportunities and cultivate relationships with prospective donors and sponsors to support our mission and programs.

Donor Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with current and prospective donors, including individuals, foundations, and corporations.
• Develop donor stewardship programs to recognise and engage donors effectively, ensuring alignment with Umbrella's values and community focus.

Grant Writing

• Research, identify, and apply for grants from foundations and other funding sources that support contemporary and experimental arts practices.
• Prepare and submit grant proposals and reports, ensuring compliance with all requirements and reflecting Umbrella’s commitment to community engagement and cultural dialogue.

Event Management

• Plan and execute fundraising events, including galas, auctions, and community engagement initiatives that reflect Umbrella’s mission and community focus.
• Collaborate with staff and volunteers to ensure successful event logistics and donor engagement.

Marketing and Communication

• Work with the Marketing and Communications Manager to create compelling fundraising materials, including enewsletters, brochures, and social media content that highlight Umbrella’s programs and impact.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders about funding needs and opportunities, emphasising Umbrella's role in fostering creativity and collaboration.

Database Management

• Maintain and update the donor database, ensuring accurate tracking of donations and donor engagement.
• Prepare regular reports on fundraising progress and outcomes, providing insights to inform strategic decisions

Key Selection Criteria

Please address these items in a separate document:

• Proven track record of successful fundraising and grant writing.
• Brilliant interpersonal and communications skills, with a proven ability to develop genuine long-term relationships with a wide range of stakeholders to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in fundraising software and database management.
• Working understanding of ICIP and demonstrated cross-cultural sensitivity including working with First Nations' peoples and artists.
• A high level of autonomy, personal integrity and demonstrated good judgement tempered with the understanding of when to seek appropriate guidance.
• A team player who is flexible and has a good sense of humour.

 

Desirable

• Bachelor’s degree in not-for-profit management, arts administration, business, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in fundraising, development, or related roles, preferably within the arts or not-for-profit sector
• Knowledge of North Queensland arts industry
• Current open drivers’ licence.

Applications are due COB Friday 17 January 2025.  Applications should include a cover letter, CV with two referees and a response to the key selection criteria.  Queries about the position and applications can be addressed to: Kate O’Hara ([email protected])