Director of development

Director of Development

Lead the Future of Transformative Theater and Community Impact

Location: Columbus, OH | Schedule: Tues–Fri (Hybrid) | Salary: $68,000–$72,000

Join one of the nation’s largest and most groundbreaking full-time resident theater ensembles. Shadowbox Live blends bold, cutting-edge performance artistry with deep civic engagement, transformative community partnerships, and pioneering educational programming.

We’re searching for a visionary Director of Development to fuel our mission: Engage the world around us, enrich the community amongst us, and entertain those in front of us.

This is a high-impact role that brings in the resources to keep our art alive and our organization thriving—fueling performances, supporting our ensemble, and creating opportunities for everyone.

In this role, you’ll:

• Shape a fresh, creative approach to fundraising.
• Inspire investment in a $3.4M operation where 35% of revenue comes from donors, corporate partners, and grants.
• Collaborate with artists, board members, and community leaders to build support for innovative art and meaningful community change.

Enjoy a creative, flexible workweek —Tuesday through Friday, with hybrid options, generous PTO, and complimentary tickets to Shadowbox Live shows.

Reports to: CEO

What You’ll Do

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and lead comprehensive fundraising strategies for annual, multi-year, and campaign goals.
• Build strong relationships with board members, donors, and key community stakeholders.
• Partner with the CEO to engage major funders and cultivate high-impact gifts.
• Identify and pursue corporate sponsorships, partnerships, and event opportunities.

Operational Execution

• Supervise the grant manager, donor relations coordinator, and contract grant writer.
• Oversee donor cultivation, stewardship activities, and segmented donor events.
• Manage donor benefit programs and recognition efforts.
• Lead fundraising events, including Shadowbox Live 365.
• Track fundraising progress, analyze results, and adjust strategies as needed.
• Maintain donor databases with accuracy and confidentiality (Patron Manager/Salesforce now; Cuebox soon).

What You’ll Bring

• 3+ years’ experience in fundraising, development, or related field (nonprofit arts/theater preferred).
• Proven success in securing philanthropic support and managing donor relationships.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling stories.
• Proficiency in donor management systems, Microsoft Office (Excel, Word), and fundraising analytics tools.
• High organization, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple projects.
• Collaborative leadership style and the ability to inspire others toward philanthropic goals.

Perks & Benefits

Schedule & Hours
Administrative hours are Tuesday–Friday, 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m., with occasional Monday or evening hours for performances, donor events, or special projects. These additional hours bring the role closer to a standard full-time schedule.

Health & Wellness

• 100% employer-paid PTO, Teledoc, and Employee Assistance Program.
• Employer contribution toward vision (VSP) and dental (Delta Dental).
• 401(k)

Culture & Perks

• Four company-wide paid vacations per year.
• Complimentary tickets to Shadowbox Live performances.

About Shadowbox Live

Shadowbox Live is the nation’s oldest and largest resident theater company, founded in 1988. Our ensemble of 50+ “metaperformers” manage both the artistry and operations of the company, producing more than 500 original works to date. We are committed to artistic innovation, community enrichment, and the transformative power of live performance.

Mission: To engage the world around us, enrich the community amongst us, and entertain those in front of us.

How to Apply:
Submit your resume, cover letter, and a brief statement on why you’re passionate about the arts and community engagement to [email protected]

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $68,000.00 - $72,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person