We are seeking a Director of Development
Join the team!
The Director of Development is a relationship-builder and strategic fundraiser who plays a vital role in shaping the future of the Wallace Theater. The new role was created to build a strong, sustainable culture of philanthropy to support the Wallace’s mission for generations to come and to deepen community investment in the arts.
The Director of Development is guided by a belief in the power of the arts to inspire and empower individuals, improve quality of life across West Texas, generate economic development, and uplift rural communities. Through this lens, they bring people closer to the Wallace by telling its story with vision, clarity, and purpose. Through thoughtful stewardship, compelling fundraising initiatives, and donor-centered strategy, the Development Director will ensure that supporters understand the impact of their giving and feel ownership of the historic venue and its mission.
Working in close partnership with the Executive Director and Operations Director, the Director of Development leads the organization’s fundraising efforts, with a primary focus on individual giving, major gifts, donor stewardship, and long-term development planning. Fundraising events are one tool within a broader development strategy and are designed first and foremost to cultivate relationships and inspire philanthropic support. This person will join a team of passionate individuals with a big vision for positively impacting the culture of our community and ensuring citizens of all generations have access to the highest quality of arts education and arts entertainment experiences.
Key Responsibilities
Fundraising Strategy & Revenue Growth
Develop, implement and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy aligned with the Wallace’s mission, values, and long-term financial goals.
Set annual fundraising goals in collaboration with the Executive Director and track progress toward revenue targets.
Lead all contributed revenue efforts, including individual giving, major gifts, corporate support, sponsorships, and planned giving in partnership with the Executive Director.
Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors at all levels, with a strong emphasis on building a sustainable major gifts pipeline.
Donor Engagement, Stewardship, and Communications
Build and nurture long-term relationships with donors through personal communication, meaningful touchpoints, and thoughtful recognition.
Partner closely with the Executive Director on major donor cultivation, solicitations, and stewardship strategies.
Oversee patron and donor communications with a clear development lens, ensuring messaging is compelling, consistent, and mission-driven.
Ensure donors clearly understand the impact of their contributions and feel valued at every stage of the giving journey.
Design and oversee fundraising and donor cultivation events as strategic tools to deepen relationships and inspire giving.
Giving Programs
Develop and grow a robust recurring giving program that encourages consistent philanthropic support.
Create and manage a corporate giving and sponsorship program that strengthens community partnerships and aligns with donor values.
Clearly define and elevate giving opportunities to support strategic fundraising goals.
Systems, Reporting & Organizational Support
Strengthen and manage development systems, including donor tracking, gift acknowledgment, reporting, and data-informed decision-making.
Maintain accurate donor records and analyze giving trends to inform strategy and future growth.
Collaborate across departments to align fundraising efforts with marketing, communications, and audience engagement.
Assist with grant writing and reporting.
Contribute as a trusted member of the leadership team, offering insight, structure, and clarity around philanthropic growth.
Qualifications & Desired Attributes
Strong relationship-building skills and experience in engaging donors in meaningful conversations about giving and impact.
Demonstrated success in nonprofit development and communications across multiple giving streams.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable fundraising plans.
Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities with professionalism and care. Willing to jump in and help with team activities.
Collaborative, self-directed, and motivated by shared success rather than personal recognition.
A genuine commitment to the mission of the Wallace and providing people in rural communities across West Texas with access to the arts.
Ability to lift 25 pounds for assistance with event set up.
Why This Role Matters
More than a performance venue, the Wallace Theater is a place where stories are shared, creativity is nurtured, people are inspired, empowered, and community pride comes alive. The Director of Development ensures that the philanthropic support behind this work is strong, sustainable, and deeply rooted in authentic relationships. By building trust, inspiring generosity, and stewarding donors with care, this role helps secure the Wallace’s future while honoring the people who make it possible.
Compensation, Benefits & Commitment to Inclusion
Compensation for the position is $60,000+ depending on experience. The position is typically M-F with approximately one weekend event per month. The Wallace Theater offers a flexibility in work schedule and work location, in addition to healthcare benefits and a generous vacation policy.
The Wallace Theater is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply and help us continue building a vibrant, inclusive future for the arts in Levelland.
To Apply
Please provide a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to careers@wallacetheater.com or apply on Indeed. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the position has been filled.
PLEASE SUBMIT A COVER LETTER, RESUME, and three professional referneces TO CAREERS@WALLACETHEATER.COM, or apply on indeed.
The Wallace Theater is committed to celebrating diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility on and off stage. Our mission is to curate culture that nurtures, uplifts, and reflects the diverse community of thoughts and experiences that make up our West Texas community. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status.