Summit Search Group has proudly partnered with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet (RWB) on the search for a Director of Fund Development. The Royal Winnipeg Ballet is Canada’s oldest ballet company and one of the most respected dance institutions in North America, with an international reputation for artistic excellence and community engagement. The RWB is currently seeking a strategic, experienced, and relationship-driven fundraising leader to elevate and guide the organization’s fund development activities.
This is a pivotal opportunity for an experienced fundraising leader to shape the future of one of Canada’s most celebrated cultural institutions. As the Royal Winnipeg Ballet embarks on an exciting new chapter—with the arrival of internationally acclaimed Artistic Director Christopher Stowell in June 2025—the Director of Fund Development will play a central role in driving philanthropic engagement and securing the resources needed to support a bold artistic vision. From expanding repertoire to deepening community impact, this is a moment of transformation—and the successful candidate will be at the heart of it.
Position:
The Director of Fund Development is a member of the Senior Leadership Team and reports directly to the Executive Director. This role is responsible for designing and implementing a comprehensive, multi-channel fundraising strategy to support the RWB’s programs, productions, and community initiatives. The successful candidate will lead a dedicated Development team, work closely with the Artistic Director, Board of Directors, and volunteers, and oversee individual giving, major gifts, sponsorships, grant applications, planned giving, and fundraising events.
This is an excellent opportunity for a driven and collaborative fundraising leader to join a world-renowned cultural institution, shape a dynamic development program, and contribute meaningfully to the arts in Canada.
Director of Fund Development Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership & Fundraising Planning
- Develop and lead RWB’s fundraising strategies and annual plans, including donor recognition, stewardship, and long-term engagement goals.
- Advise the Executive Director, Artistic Director, Board, and Fund Development Committee on fundraising strategies and performance.
- Evaluate fundraising performance, analyze trends, and adjust strategy to strengthen results.
- Build collaborative relationships across departments to align fundraising with organizational goals.
Team & Volunteer Leadership
- Lead, support, and mentor the Development Team; set performance goals and ensure professional development.
- Establish effective team structures, roles, and volunteer involvement to maximize fundraising outcomes.
Fundraising Activities
- Oversee major gifts, annual giving, corporate sponsorships, and planned giving programs.
- Direct the planning and execution of fundraising events and stewardship activities.
- Manage timelines and oversee grant applications to private and community foundations.
- Supervise external consultants as needed for fundraising activities.
Donor Relations & Stewardship
- Lead cultivation and stewardship strategies for major donors and sponsors.
- Ensure CRA-compliant practices for receipting, gift acknowledgement, and recordkeeping.
- Promote a culture of philanthropy throughout the organization and maintain a high degree of donor confidentiality.
Marketing & Communications Support
- Collaborate on donor communications and fundraising marketing materials.
- Elevate public awareness of the RWB’s fundraising programs and community impact.
Budget & Reporting
- Develop and manage the Fund Development department’s budget and revenue targets.
- Monitor revenue and expenses, manage financial reporting, and provide forecasting support.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Senior-level experience in fundraising, donor stewardship, or advancement, preferably in the not-for-profit or arts sector.
- Demonstrated success leading fundraising campaigns, securing major gifts, and managing sponsorships.
- Strong leadership and coaching abilities with experience mentoring fundraising staff.
- Post-secondary education in Business, Communications, Non-Profit Management or related field; CFRE designation is an asset.
- Skilled in relationship-building, donor engagement, and volunteer management.
- Familiarity with fundraising databases, Microsoft Office Suite, and data reporting.
- Member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and adherence to its Code of Ethics.
- Valid Manitoba driver’s license and the ability to pass background checks.
This is a unique opportunity to support one of Canada’s most iconic cultural institutions. The successful candidate will help shape the future of ballet in Canada while working in a dynamic, mission-driven environment that values creativity, excellence, and community.
For more information, or to submit your resume, please contact Gail Eckert at Summit Search Group: gail.eckert@summitsearchgroup.com
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Gail Eckert
Job ID
City
- Winnipeg, MB
Remuneration
Competitive Salary + benefits
Gail Eckert
Job ID
City
- Winnipeg, MB
Remuneration
Competitive Salary + benefits 