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Position: Manager of Grants and Sponsorships
Department: Public Engagement
Reports to: Director of Development and Advancement
Start Date: April 2022
Salary Range: Commensurate with Experience
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INTRODUCTION
The Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra (WSO) is currently celebrating its 74th year. From its debut 1948 performance to over 3,000 audience members, the WSO has become a powerhouse orchestra, regularly surprising guest conductors and artists with the exceptional musicianship and flexibility of its members. The WSO holds over 90 events per year in its five music series, and vibrant education programs. Under the leadership of Music Director Daniel Raiskin, the orchestra has earned a place among the ranks of major Canadian symphony orchestras. It has come to be regarded as one of Canada’s most innovative, welcoming eminent artists and conductors from all over the world.
The WSO’s activity regularly extends beyond its home stage at the Centennial Concert Hall. Each year, the WSO’s much-lauded and highly innovative Winnipeg New Music Festival regularly draws crowds in the thousands. The WSO has produced concerts in Olympic size diving boards, cottage country harbours and outdoors at The Forks in -30c. The orchestra has toured twice to Carnegie Hall, regularly performed across Manitoba and Canada and is planning a European tour.
In 2011, the WSO founded Sistema Winnipeg (based on the famous Venezuelan El Sistema program for at-risk children), in partnership with two Winnipeg school divisions. Over 40,000 students attend orchestra concerts presented by the WSO each season and its innovative pops and film programs serve a rapidly growing audience. The WSO functions as the official orchestra of Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet and Manitoba Opera Association. My WSO TV, the uniquely WSO subscription-based platform features free and paid content alike.
THE ROLE:
Working as part of an integrated and collaborative Public Engagement team, the Manager of Grants & Sponsorships will report to the Director of Development and Advancement. The incumbent assists with the WSO’s multi-pronged development strategy which includes sponsorships, foundations, government funding, major gifts, Maestro Circle, Sistema, events and endowment fundraising. This role places particular emphasis on sponsorships and grants but will assist the team in all areas as required, particularly in stewardship proposal development, and fundraising events management. The successful candidate will have at least 5 years’ experience in non-profit sector fundraising, ideally within the performing arts. A degree from a post-secondary institution is an asset and advanced training in a recognized fund-raising program is considered. Superior written and verbal communications skills are required along with solid organizational skills. Experience with Tessitura or similar performing arts database is an asset.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Manager of Grants and Sponsorships plays a key role within a dynamic team that meets or exceeds annual revenue targets and supports fundraising initiatives.
Fundraising - Sponsorship
• In consultation with the Director of Development and Advancement, establish annual sponsorship goals (including strategies, activities and revenue targets);
• In collaboration with the Public Engagement team, research and identify WSO’s programs, special projects and streaming programs suitable for corporate sponsorship or donor support;
• Be a direct point of contact with the WSO for many corporate sponsors;
• Be part of the team that initiates or identifies new and innovative sponsorship opportunities for WSO programs and products such as My WSO.TV streaming platform, the Sistema program, music education and leadership programs, regional and international touring and other innovative opportunities within the orchestra milieu and with the WSO in particular;
• Identify new prospects, prepare proposals and solicit support in the community, including matching relationships with WSO Board and senior staff to potential sponsors;
• Manage sponsorship agreements including research, sponsor report cards, benefit activation, stewardship and tracking in Tessitura;
• Draft correspondence and communications to sponsors and selected donors;
• Contribute to grant writing and proposals for government funding and foundations as required.
Fundraising - Grants
• In consultation with the Director of Development & Advancement, identify grant prospects from corporate and private foundations
• Coordinate and manage execution of grant applications, procuring required financial, artistic and organizational content
• Coordinate and submit grant interim and final reports
• Write grant application and status report copy as required
• Create and maintain annual grants calendar
• Contribute to grant writing and proposals for government funding and foundations as required.
Events
In collaboration with the Public Engagement team, support the planning and execution of annual fundraising events such as Manitoba Remembers – A Covid Commemoration (April 28 2022), inauguration of a President’s Advisory Council and activities related to WSO’s 75th Anniversary:
Relationship Management
In collaboration with the development team, assist with the WSO’s annual stewardship program so that select relationships with donors, sponsors and other key stakeholders are maintained.
• Provide support to the WSO’s Development Committee and in specified relationships within the Board Executive and the President’s Advisory Council of the WSO;
• Support stewardship of specific Major Gift and other donors and sponsors, with special focus on renewing existing relationships and achieving multi-year sponsorship agreements and ensure specified donor benefits are delivered;
• As required, ensure donors profiles are updated, monitor activity and mine data;
QUALIFICATIONS
The ideal candidate brings to the role the following:
1. Skills, Abilities and Knowledge
i. Current knowledge of fund development theory, principles, ethics and practices;
ii. Knowledge of promotions and marketing practices and techniques;
iii. Knowledge of businesses, corporations, foundations and other funding agencies in Manitoba and Canada;
iv. Experience corporate sponsorships and stewardship programs including managing designated volunteers and at times, staff;
v. Ability to work both independently and as a team member on multiple projects and priorities;
vi. Strong written and verbal communications skills and ability to write complex proposals and reports;
vii. Professionalism, diplomacy and ability to influence, negotiate, and secure the cooperation of others;
viii. Strong commitment and ability to maintain confidentiality;
ix. Strong organizational skills, solid judgement, initiative, creativity, diplomacy and discretion in working with the community of donors, sponsors and governments;
x. Knowledge of the performing arts, and the ability to work within a high pressure environment with multiple deadlines;
xi. Hands-on ability with MS Suite programs, databases and fundraising software;
2. Education, Training and Experience
i. Minimum of a certificate in a recognized fundraising program (a degree/diploma would be considered an asset);
ii. Seven years of related experience.
This full-time position requires work on some evenings and weekends. The WSO welcomes all qualified applicants and highly values inclusion, diversity and equity.
Salary: Salary will be commensurate with experience. WSO staff are eligible for a full benefits plan including matching RSP contribution program. The WSO offers excellent opportunities for growth and advancement within the organization.
To Apply: Please submit a cover letter along with a CV and 3 references to: Lori Marks, Executive Assistant (lmarks@wso.mb.ca). First intake of applicants will be reviewed on March 30, 2022, however applications will be received until the position is filled. Note that references will only be contacted following the interview process and in the eventuality of a potential offer.
