Director of Advancement

For 90 years, the Peterborough Players has been a cherished cultural institution in the heart of the Monadnock region of New Hampshire, bringing exceptional theatre to our community each summer. As we look toward our next chapter, we are preparing for an ambitious capital campaign that will secure our future and deepen our impact. This is an exciting moment to join a beloved organization with strong roots, loyal supporters, and tremendous potential for growth and impact in the community.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Director of Advancement will lead fundraising strategy and execution during a pivotal time for the Players. Reporting to the Managing Director and working closely with the Artistic Director, Marketing, and the Board of Trustees, this position will focus on three core priorities: leading a capital campaign, establishing a robust planned giving program, and significantly increasing contributed revenue from our subscriber and donor base.

This is an entrepreneurial role for someone who loves building relationships, can work independently while collaborating effectively with staff and board leadership, and is energized by the opportunity to make a meaningful impact at an established arts organization poised for growth.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Capital Campaign Leadership
– Develop and execute a comprehensive capital campaign strategy in partnership with the Board Committee, Managing Director, and Artistic Director
– Identify, cultivate, and solicit major gift prospects for campaign priorities
– Create compelling campaign materials and case for support
– Manage campaign timeline, goals, and reporting
– Build and maintain strong relationships with campaign leadership and key donors

Planned Giving Program Development
– Design and launch a planned giving program from the ground up
– Identify and cultivate legacy gift prospects among longtime supporters
– Develop planned giving marketing materials and communications
– Work with professional advisors (attorneys, financial planners) to facilitate planned gifts
– Create recognition and stewardship strategies for legacy society members

Annual Giving & Donor Engagement
– Significantly grow annual fund revenue, with particular focus on subscriber conversion and upgrade strategies
– Develop targeted cultivation strategies to move donors up the giving ladder
– Create year-round engagement opportunities that deepen donor relationships
– Implement data-driven approaches to donor acquisition, retention, and upgrade
– Ensure exceptional donor stewardship and timely, personalized acknowledgment

Supporting Functions
– Oversee grant writing, including research, proposal development, and reporting requirements
– Maintain accurate donor records and utilize database for strategic decision-making
– Collaborate with the Marketing Director to ensure consistency in voice and branding across the organization.
– Collaborate with staff and Board on fundraising events, to support and further develop current infrastructure/events
– Provide quarterly progress reports and analysis to leadership
– Make public appearances to represent the Players in the community
– Collaborate with the Development Committee of the Board of Trustees

QUALIFICATIONS

Required
– 5+ years of progressively responsible fundraising experience
– Demonstrated success with individual donor cultivation and solicitation
– Experience managing multiple fundraising initiatives simultaneously
– Strong interpersonal skills and comfort building relationships with diverse constituencies
– Excellent written and verbal communication skills
– Self-directed work style with ability to set priorities and meet deadlines
– Proficiency with donor databases and data analysis
– Passion for the arts and commitment to the Players’ mission

Preferred
– Capital campaign experience (either leadership or significant participation)
– Planned giving program development or management
– Experience in small to mid-size arts or cultural organizations
– Knowledge of the NH philanthropic landscape
– Experience working effectively with boards and volunteers

WHAT WE OFFER
– Annual salary of $65,000, exempt, with health benefits and paid time off.
– Opportunity to lead transformational initiatives at a respected cultural institution
– Supportive, collaborative work environment
– Engaged Board of Trustees committed to fundraising success
– Strong existing donor base and successful fundraising track record to build upon
– Flexible work arrangement with a combination of on-site and remote work
– Connection to vibrant summer theatre tradition and talented artistic community

TO APPLY
Please send resume and cover letter to jobs@peterboroughplayers.org (include “Director of Advancement” in subject line), or mail to Tobee Phipps, Managing Director, Peterborough Players, 55 Hadley Road, P.O. Box 118, Peterborough, NH 03458.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis in March and April, with a May 1 application deadline. Early application is encouraged.
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​​The Peterborough Players is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and considers applicants for employment without regard to—and does not discriminate on the basis of—an individual’s sex, race, color, religion, age, disability, status as a veteran, or national or ethnic origin; nor does the Peterborough Players discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity or expression. Peterborough Players is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.