George Street Playhouse (GSP), Central New Jersey’s premier producing theater, seeks an experienced Director of Advancement to lead a dynamic and ambitious fundraising program that supports GSP’s vision for the next 50 years. This position will drive the comprehensive fundraising strategy, with a particular focus on the “Bridge to the Future” campaign, a transformative $10 million initiative that will strengthen GSP’s artistic legacy, expand education and community programs, and enhance audience accessibility. The campaign is currently in its quiet phase, and the Director of Advancement will play a critical leadership role as it transitions to a public launch.
As a senior member of GSP’s leadership team, the Director of Advancement will collaborate closely with the Executive Director, Board members, and the “Artistic Triumvirate” (a team of three senior leaders responsible for artistic planning and execution) to ensure that GSP’s programs resonate with the needs and interests of our community and supporters. This role oversees the Development team and is responsible for the annual fund advancing major gifts, individual giving, grants, corporate partnerships, and fundraising events, with a special focus on the annual Gala.
Salary Range: $120,000 – $140,000
Reports to: Executive Director
Supervises: Development Manager, Grants & Corporate Relations Manager, Development Associate, Tessitura Manager
About George Street Playhouse
Founded in 1974, GSP has been a driving force in Central New Jersey’s cultural renaissance, presenting groundbreaking new works, reimagined classics, and impactful educational initiatives. Residing in the state-of-the-art New Brunswick Performing Arts Center, GSP is committed to creating transformative experiences through live theater. With over 70 new works produced and a reputation for developing shows that reach Broadway and beyond, GSP continues to captivate audiences with thought-provoking stories and world-class performances.
With the recent retirement of GSP’s long-time Artistic Director, the organization’s artistic course is being led by an Artistic Triumvirate who are reimagining the organization’s mission and vision through a new and different lens.
The mission of George Street Playhouse is to enrich people’s lives by producing world-class theatre. To accomplish our mission, we seek to produce the highest quality of intellectually and emotionally challenging new works, re-imagined classics, and educational programs that speak with relevance to society; to serve as a vital cultural institution in New Jersey and a creative force nationally; to positively shape and be shaped by the diverse character of our community; and, to create a nurturing home for the highest level of professionals in the arts. Our vision is, “Creating the next generation of trailblazing new works.”
GSP has a commitment to company culture that leads with relentless curiosity, limitless imagination and kindness and is welcoming and inclusive, focused on creative innovation and empowerment, and driven by accountability and fun. We build our strength on trust, diversity and the authentic expression of each individual.
GSP is now in the second year of its “Bridge to the Future” strategic plan, an ambitious endeavor that will secure its artistic and financial future, ensuring GSP’s legacy and influence for generations to come.
Key Responsibilities:
Fundraising Strategy and Leadership
- Develop and implement a strategic advancement annual plan aligned with the “Bridge to the Future” campaign, building towards the public phase and driving revenue from individual giving, grants, corporate sponsorships, and events.
- Lead all aspects of the “Bridge to the Future” campaign, overseeing progress, preparing for a successful public launch, and setting benchmarks to achieve campaign goals.
- Drive major gifts, foundation support, and corporate giving, with an emphasis on securing five- and six-figure contributions.
- Responsible for the planning and execution of the regular annual fund campaign, to meet budget and strategic goals.
Relationship Building and Stewardship
- Engage with GSP’s Board of Trustees, cultivating key relationships to expand GSP’s network and elevate its profile within the community, including at the NJ State level, regional institutions, etc.
- Partner with the Artistic Triumvirate to align artistic and educational programs with donor interests, increasing engagement and support.
- Cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with major donors and institutional funders, implementing strategies to retain and grow the donor base.
Team Development and Management
- Supervise the Development team, including the Development Manager, Grants & Corporate Relations Manager, Development Associate, and Data Manager.
- Foster a collaborative, high-performing team culture focused on professional development and achieving fundraising goals.
Operational and Administrative Oversight
- Oversee departmental budgeting, ensuring alignment with GSP’s strategic objectives.
- Use data analytics to track progress, refine strategies, and ensure the effective use of donor management systems in collaboration with the Data Manager.
Collaboration and Communication
- Representing GSP at community events, building connections that enhance visibility and foster new funding opportunities.
- Serve as a core member of GSP’s senior leadership team, working collaboratively to achieve organizational objectives.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree preferred.
Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in fundraising, with a proven record of closing major gifts and successfully managing a development team and campaigns.
Demonstrated success in managing, developing, and mentoring a team.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven ability to build and sustain relationships with Board members, donors, government officials, and community leaders.
Knowledge of data-driven fundraising strategies and donor database Tessitura is a plus.
Experience in the arts or nonprofit sector is a strong plus.
Benefits:
George Street Playhouse offers a competitive benefits package, including:
- 90% premium coverage for health insurance (medical, vision, and dental)
- Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) program
- Paid parking near the theater
- 401K retirement plan
- Paid time off
- One remote workday per week
- Fridays off during summer, along with a paid week in the summer and another in December.
- Additional perks are designed to reflect our commitment to fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and teamwork.
This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of George Street Playhouse as we enter a new era of growth and innovation. We invite dedicated and visionary advancement professionals from across the nation and beyond to apply.
Interested candidates should submit their resume and cover letter by noon on July 31st, 2025, to Jamie Grant at search@GrantManagementGroup.com with “George Street Playhouse” in the subject line. Jamie Grant, of Grant Management Group, is coordinating this national search in partnership with GSP.
