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George Street Playhouse (GSP), Central New Jersey’s premier producing theater, seeks an experienced Director of Advancement to lead a dynamic and ambitious fundraising program that supports GSP’s vision for the next 50 years. This position will drive the comprehensive fundraising strategy, with a particular focus on the “Bridge to the Future” campaign, a transformative $10 million initiative that will strengthen GSP’s artistic legacy, expand education and community programs, and enhance audience accessibility. The campaign is currently in its quiet phase, and the Director of Advancement will play a critical leadership role as it transitions to a public launch.

As a senior member of GSP’s leadership team, the Director of Advancement will collaborate closely with the Executive Director, Board members, and the “Artistic Triumvirate” (a team of three senior leaders responsible for artistic planning and execution) to ensure that GSP’s programs resonate with the needs and interests of our community and supporters. This role oversees the Development team and is responsible for the annual fund advancing major gifts, individual giving, grants, corporate partnerships, and fundraising events, with a special focus on the annual Gala.

Salary Range: $120,000 - $140,000
Reports to: Executive Director
Supervises: Development Manager, Grants & Corporate Relations Manager, Development Associate, Data Services Manager

About George Street Playhouse
Founded in 1974, GSP has been a driving force in Central New Jersey’s cultural renaissance, presenting groundbreaking new works, reimagined classics, and impactful educational initiatives. Residing in the state-of-the-art New Brunswick Performing Arts Center, GSP is committed to creating transformative experiences through live theater. With over 70 new works produced and a reputation for developing shows that reach Broadway and beyond, GSP continues to captivate audiences with thought-provoking stories and world-class performances.

With the recent retirement of GSP’s long-time Artistic Director, the organization’s artistic course is being led by an Artistic Triumvirate who are reimagining the organization’s mission and vision through a new and different lens.

The mission of George Street Playhouse is to enrich people’s lives by producing world-class theatre. To accomplish our mission, we seek to produce the highest quality of intellectually and emotionally challenging new works, re-imagined classics, and educational programs that speak with relevance to society; to serve as a vital cultural institution in New Jersey and a creative force nationally; to positively shape and be shaped by the diverse character of our community; and, to create a nurturing home for the highest level of professionals in the arts. Our vision is, “Creating the next generation of trailblazing new works.”

GSP has a commitment to company culture that leads with relentless curiosity, limitless imagination and kindness and is welcoming and inclusive, focused on creative innovation and empowerment, and driven by accountability and fun. We build our strength on trust, diversity and the authentic expression of each individual.

GSP is now in the second year of its “Bridge to the Future” strategic plan, an ambitious endeavor that will secure its artistic and financial future, ensuring GSP’s legacy and influence for generations to come.

Key Responsibilities:

Fundraising Strategy and Leadership

• Develop and implement a strategic advancement annual plan aligned with the “Bridge to the Future” campaign, building towards the public phase and driving revenue from individual giving, grants, corporate sponsorships, and events.
• Lead all aspects of the “Bridge to the Future” campaign, overseeing progress, preparing for a successful public launch, and setting benchmarks to achieve campaign goals.
• Drive major gifts, foundation support, and corporate giving, with an emphasis on securing five-and six-figure contributions.
• Responsible for the planning and execution of the regular annual fund campaign, to meet budget and strategic goals.

Relationship Building and Stewardship

• Engage with GSP’s Board of Trustees, cultivating key relationships to expand GSP’s network and elevate its profile within the community, including at the NJ State level, regional institutions, etc.
• Partner with the Artistic Triumvirate to align artistic and educational programs with donor interests, increasing engagement and support.
• Cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with major donors and institutional funders, implementing strategies to retain and grow the donor base.
   

Team Development and Management

• Supervise the Development team, including the Development Manager, Grants & Corporate Relations Manager, Development Associate, and Data Manager.
• Foster a collaborative, high-performing team culture focused on professional development and achieving fundraising goals.
• Operational and Administrative Oversight
• Oversee departmental budgeting, ensuring alignment with GSP’s strategic objectives.
• Use data analytics to track progress, refine strategies, and ensure the effective use of donor management systems in collaboration with the Data Manager.

Collaboration and Communication

• Representing GSP at community events, building connections that enhance visibility and foster new funding opportunities.
• Serve as a core member of GSP’s senior leadership team, working collaboratively to achieve organizational objectives.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree preferred.

• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in fundraising, with a proven record of closing major gifts and successfully managing a development team and campaigns.
• Demonstrated success in managing, developing, and mentoring a team.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven ability to build and sustain relationships with Board members, donors, government officials, and community leaders.
• Knowledge of data-driven fundraising strategies and donor database Tessitura is a plus.
• Experience in the arts or nonprofit sector is a strong plus.

Benefits

George Street Playhouse offers a competitive benefits package, including:

• 90% premium coverage for health insurance (medical, vision, and dental)
• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) program
• Paid parking near the theater
• 401K retirement plan
• Paid time off
• One remote workday per week
• Fridays off during summer, along with a paid week in the summer and another in December.
• Additional perks are designed to reflect our commitment to fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and teamwork.

This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of George Street Playhouse as we enter a new era of growth and innovation. We invite dedicated and visionary advancement professionals from across the nation and beyond to apply.

Interested candidates should submit their resume and cover letter by noon on July 31 st , 2025, to Jamie Grant at search@GrantManagementGroup.com with “George Street Playhouse” in the subject line.

Jamie Grant, of Grant Management Group, is coordinating this national search in partnership with GSP.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
GSP is committed to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity. Accordingly, GSP will provide equal opportunity to all persons without regard to race (including traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture, type and styles), religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy and breastfeeding), gender (including gender identity, gender nonconformity and status as a transgender or transsexual individual), sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait (AHCBT), citizenship, genetic information, past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services, marital status, familial status, and/or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all areas of employment, including recruitment, hiring, training and development, promotion, termination, layoff, compensation, benefits and all other conditions, terms and privileges of employment in accordance with federal, state and local laws.

The Development Manager is a full-time exempt position reporting to the Director of Advancement. This role is pivotal in executing GSP’s annual fundraising strategy, with a strong emphasis on cultivation and stewardship events. In addition, this position manages donor benefit fulfillment, departmental operations, recordkeeping, and communications to ensure the smooth and efficient function of the Advancement department.

Salary Range: $50,000 – $60,000
Status: Exempt, Full-Time
Reports to: Director of Advancement
Works closely with: Development Associate, Data Services Manager, Marketing Manager

About George Street Playhouse

Founded in 1974, George Street Playhouse has been a cornerstone of Central New Jersey’s cultural landscape, producing new plays, reimagined classics, and education programs that inspire and engage.

Under the 25-year artistic leadership of David Saint, GSP became known as an incubator of important
new works, many of which went on to enjoy successful lives on Broadway and beyond. His legacy continues to shape the theatre’s commitment to bold storytelling and artistic excellence.
Now entering a new era, GSP is led by an Artistic Triumvirate, a collaborative leadership team
reimagining the organization’s mission and vision with fresh energy and inclusive values. With a
permanent home at the state-of-the-art New Brunswick Performing Arts Center, GSP remains
committed to creating transformative experiences through live theatre.

GSP has a commitment to company culture that leads with relentless curiosity, limitless imagination and kindness and is welcoming and inclusive, focused on creative innovation and empowerment, and driven by accountability and fun. We build our strength on trust, diversity and the authentic expression of each individual.

GSP is now in the second year of its “Bridge to the Future” strategic plan, an ambitious endeavor that will secure its artistic and financial future, ensuring GSP’s legacy and influence for generations to come.

Key Responsibilities

Annual Fund & Department Operations

• Lead the planning and execution of annual fund campaigns in coordination with Director of Advancement
• Oversee gift processing, acknowledgments, donor benefits, and pledge tracking
• Maintain departmental calendars, budgets, and expense records
• Coordinate with the Finance Department to reconcile development income and expenses
• Collaborate with Development Associate and Data Services Manager to ensure accurate CRM recordkeeping in Tessitura

Event Management

• Serve as project manager for all Development events including Opening Nights, donor cultivation events, annual Gala, and other fundraisers
• Act as the primary point of contact for vendors, hospitality partners, and internal staff for event logistics
• Manage all event timelines, budgets, and task follow-up with staff and committee members
• Assist committee members with donor outreach and cultivation efforts
• Coordinate invitations, materials, and seating assignments; oversee onsite logistics and staffing

Donor Engagement & Stewardship

• Serve as a concierge for key donors and prospects, ensuring an exceptional engagement experience.
• Maintain stewardship plans and assist with moves management in collaboration with the Director of Advancement.
• Oversee timely gift acknowledgements and personalized communication strategies.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• Minimum 2 years of experience in fundraising, with emphasis on event planning and annual fund coordination
• Strong organizational and project management skills; able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Familiarity with donor database systems (Tessitura preferred)
• Ability to work collaboratively and diplomatically with diverse constituencies including donors, staff, artists, board members, and the public
• Passion for the performing arts or nonprofit work is a plus

Work Hours

The standard office schedule is Monday - Friday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Evening and weekend
hours are required for events, performances, and special activities. Regular attendance is
expected at:

• All company “Meet and Greet” events
• Dress rehearsal or one preview performance of each production
• Opening Night activities and major fundraising events

Benefits

• 90% employer-paid health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
• Paid parking near the theater
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Fridays off in summer
• One week of paid leave in summer and another in December
• One remote workday per week
• Additional perks are designed to support work-life balance and foster a thriving team culture.

To Apply
Please submit your resume and cover letter by noon on July 31, 2025 to Megan Cherry at mcherry@georgestplayhouse.org with “GSP Development Manager” in the subject line.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
GSP is committed to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity. Accordingly, GSP will provide equal opportunity to all persons without regard to race (including traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture, type and styles), religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy and breastfeeding), gender (including gender identity, gender nonconformity and status as a transgender or transsexual individual), sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait (AHCBT), citizenship, genetic information, past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services, marital status, familial status, and/or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all areas of employment, including recruitment, hiring, training and development, promotion, termination, layoff, compensation, benefits and all other conditions, terms and privileges of employment in accordance with federal, state and local laws.

Reports to: Artistic Producer for General Management & Marketing
Department: Marketing
Status: Full-Time, Exempt
Compensation: $50,000 – $60,000 annually, plus benefits

Position Summary
The Sales & Audience Development Manager contributes to the successful execution of all
earned revenue strategies from ticket sales at George Street Playhouse. This key position
supports the development and execution of single ticket, subscription, group sales, and
institutional ticketing strategies in collaboration with the Artistic Producer and Marketing team.
The Sales and Audience Development Manager blends aggressive sales tactics with community engagement and institutional outreach to expand GSP’s audience base, increase revenue, and deepen community relationships.

The ideal candidate is a sales-focused strategist and relationship builder, highly collaborative,
data-driven, and passionate about live theatre and equitable access.

Key Responsibilities

Revenue & Ticket Sales Leadership

• Provide critical support to the Marketing department in all earned revenue activities related to ticket sales, including subscription, single tickets, group sales, institutional clients, and student matinees.
• Develop and implement targeted outbound sales campaigns to increase attendance and revenue including oversight of outbound phone campaigns
• Create and manage promotional offers to maximize sales across various audience segments.
• Set, track, and report on annual revenue goals and attendance benchmarks.
• Serve as the concierge-level point of contact for board members, major donors, and community stakeholders arranging ticketing.

Audience Development & Community Access

• Identify and cultivate new and underrepresented audience segments through partnerships, mission-aligned programming, and outreach.
• Support audience segmentation and database analysis to inform targeted communications and offers.
• Collaborate with the Marketing team to design and implement campaigns focused on acquisition, retention, and lifecycle value.
• Partner with schools, youth organizations, and educational leaders to grow student matinee attendance.
• Promote access to performances with ASL, audio description, open captioning, and relaxed performances.
• Cross-Departmental Collaboration
• Collaborate closely with Patron Services to ensure smooth ticket fulfillment, customer satisfaction, and front-of-house coordination.
• Work with Development to align group and community partnerships with donor engagement strategies.
• Coordinate with Production and Education departments to support performance logistics and school engagement.
• Strategic Partnerships & Community Engagement
• Build long-term relationships with schools, cultural institutions, corporations, senior centers, and tourism partners.
• Design customized group sales and engagement packages tailored to organizational partners.
• Represent GSP at public and industry events, community fairs, and promotional activations.

Management of Matinee Performances

• Serve as the primary liaison for all student matinee bookings and school partnerships.
• Serve as the primary liaison for all matinee bookings for seniors and veterans.
• Oversee outreach, marketing materials, ticketing, and onsite support for student performances.

Sales Data Management & Reporting

• Maintain accurate records of sales performance, outreach, and engagement activity in Tessitura.
• Monitor and report weekly on sales pipeline, conversion rates, audience trends, and performance against goals.
• Provide data-informed feedback to inform departmental strategies and improve outcomes.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in sales, marketing, or audience development, preferably in a performing arts or cultural institution
• Demonstrated success in meeting or exceeding revenue goals
• Strong organizational and project management skills; able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Familiarity with customer relationship database systems (Tessitura preferred) and sales reporting tools
• Ability to work collaboratively and diplomatically with diverse constituencies including donors, staff, artists, board members, and the public
• Passion for the performing arts or nonprofit work
• Availability for evening and weekend work, including during performances and special events.

Work Hours
The standard office schedule is Monday - Friday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Evening and weekend
hours are required for events, performances, and special activities. Regular attendance is
expected at:

• All company “Meet and Greet” events
• Dress rehearsal or one preview performance of each production
• Opening Night activities and major fundraising events

Benefits

• 90% employer-paid health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
• Paid parking near the theater
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Fridays off in summer
• One week of paid leave in summer and another in December
• One remote workday per week
• Additional perks are designed to support work-life balance and foster a thriving team culture.

To Apply
Please submit your resume and cover letter by noon on July 31, 2025 to Megan Cherry at
jobs@georgestplayhouse.org with “GSP Sales & Audience Development Manager” in the subject line.

George Street Playhouse is an equal opportunity employer. We value a diverse workforce and
an inclusive culture. GSP encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard
to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national
origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected
by applicable law. Candidates from historically underrepresented backgrounds are strongly
encouraged to apply.