Development Director
Gulfshore Opera - Estero, FL
Gulfshore Opera seeks a Development Director to serve as the chief development officer of Gulfshore Opera (GO), working to develop and implement a comprehensive development program to identify individuals and organizations at all giving levels, focusing on those with the potential to make transformative gifts to the organization. Following proven success in the development role, this key leadership opportunity will position the successful candidate for the role of Executive Director in the future. Since September of 2024, a thorough analysis of GO's current operations has been conducted, resulting in this newly created position. The hiring of a Development Director will allow GO to transition from an outside development consulting firm to a new in-house executive staff member, with strategic changes designed and implemented that will enhance efficiency and overall organizational health. The incoming Development Director will ensure that patrons are systematically engaged through all phases of the fundraising cycle, from donor qualification to effective solicitation and stewardship. The Development Director will work closely with the staff and leadership of the company to develop unique funding opportunities for donors and will take a leadership role in developing grant proposals for arts funding organizations. The Development Director will manage special gift initiatives, such as the annual fundraising gala, the GO Maestro Club, and the President’s Council, and develop and manage corporate and individual underwriting opportunities for mainstage performers, artists, and productions. GO's season, the High Season, is from November to May, with performances and social and fundraising events during this period. The off-season is used for planning and preparation. This pattern requires flexibility but allows for greater personal time out of season.
Gulfshore Opera was founded in 2014 by General Director Steffanie Pearce, who brings over 40 years of experience in the field of opera. She is a producer, director, performer, and teacher of the great art form and has performed worldwide. GO enriches the community of Southwest Florida by presenting accessible, high-quality, diverse vocal music performances with classically trained artists, creating a positive social impact through a youth development choral program and a regional emerging artist program. Gulfshore Opera is a growing Level Three opera company, per the Opera America guidelines, and the only touring opera company in Florida. It serves communities across Charlotte, Lee, and Collier counties, offering accessible and affordable high-quality productions, supportive community events, and friendly social activities for the community. GO Community Engagement Programs enrich the lives of the diverse Southwest Florida community through various creative activities, including the free after-school Harmony Choir, a youth development program that serves underserved young people in partnership with established after-school programs.
"Now entering our 12th Season, without debt, with a well-organized patron database and an endowment fund in place, we are poised to add the new executive-level position of Development Director. This position offers a distinctive opportunity for a fundraising professional to have a strong voice within the tight-knit executive team of our vibrant arts organization. I am excited about the potential expansion of the good works GO can achieve over the coming years with the eagerly anticipated addition of a Development Director. I look forward to sharing my passion for this wonderful organization with you and introducing you to the many kind-hearted members of the GO Family." — Steffanie Pearce, Founder & General Director
For more information, including core competencies and qualifications, please refer to the full prospectus.
Gulfshore Opera was founded in 2014 by General Director Steffanie Pearce, who brings over 40 years of experience in the field of opera. She is a producer, director, performer, and teacher of the great art form and has performed worldwide. GO enriches the community of Southwest Florida by presenting accessible, high-quality, diverse vocal music performances with classically trained artists, creating a positive social impact through a youth development choral program and a regional emerging artist program. Gulfshore Opera is a growing Level Three opera company, per the Opera America guidelines, and the only touring opera company in Florida. It serves communities across Charlotte, Lee, and Collier counties, offering accessible and affordable high-quality productions, supportive community events, and friendly social activities for the community. GO Community Engagement Programs enrich the lives of the diverse Southwest Florida community through various creative activities, including the free after-school Harmony Choir, a youth development program that serves underserved young people in partnership with established after-school programs.
"Now entering our 12th Season, without debt, with a well-organized patron database and an endowment fund in place, we are poised to add the new executive-level position of Development Director. This position offers a distinctive opportunity for a fundraising professional to have a strong voice within the tight-knit executive team of our vibrant arts organization. I am excited about the potential expansion of the good works GO can achieve over the coming years with the eagerly anticipated addition of a Development Director. I look forward to sharing my passion for this wonderful organization with you and introducing you to the many kind-hearted members of the GO Family." — Steffanie Pearce, Founder & General Director
For more information, including core competencies and qualifications, please refer to the full prospectus.