Director of Development

Job Overview

Reports To: LSWO Board of Trustees through the Board Executive Committee

Supervises: Administrative Assistant (in conjunction with Chair and other staff executives), consultants and volunteers

Works closely with: Board Chair, Director of Artistic Operations, and DIrector of Marketing

Position type: Full-time, permanent position (expected 40-45 hours per week) in a hybrid setting, working remotely from time to time, but will be expected to be in the office 3-4 times a week.

Experience: Minimum of 3+ years of work experience with Major Donor Cultivation, philanthropy management and Grant Proposal Writing.

Compensation: Commensurate with experience

The Lone Star Wind Orchestra (LSWO) is a world-class music organization committed to three core objectives: creating exceptional musical experiences, serving the community, and reaching underserved populations. Guided by its vision, Music Changing Lives, LSWO believes in the power of music to inspire, create meaningful impact, and drive positive change within communities. The organization fulfills this mission through masterful performances, commissioned works, music education programs for both at-risk and high-achieving students, scholarship opportunities, and innovative outreach initiatives—including free ticket programs, transportation access, and pop-up performances in underserved areas.

The Director of Development provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for all fundraising and corporate partnership initiatives. This role is responsible for managing and growing LSWO’s philanthropic efforts, including overseeing donor database systems, coordinating major fundraising campaigns, preparing grant proposals and reports, and conducting donor and foundation research.

Supporting an annual fundraising budget of approximately $400,000 across three primary campaigns, the Director of Development plays a critical role in ensuring the sustainability and growth of the organization. This position works closely with the Board of Trustees, Development Committee Chair, staff leadership, volunteers, and donors, and is responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive, results-driven philanthropy strategy that advances LSWO’s mission and long-term impact.

• Plan and lead three (3) major annual individual fundraising campaigns:
  North Texas Giving Day (September), Give a Gift—Change a Life (November/December), and Music Changing Lives (Spring).
• Develop and implement a Major Gifts Program targeting donors contributing $1,000 or more.
• Research, prepare, and submit grant proposals and required reports to foundations, corporations, government agencies, and other funding entities.
• Design and execute a comprehensive Sponsorship Program focused on institutional and corporate partners.
• Partner with the Board’s Development Committee to support all fundraising initiatives, including individual giving, corporate sponsor ships, special events, endowment campaigns, planned giving, and donor cultivation.

• Ensure all financial and in-kind contributions are acknowledged promptly and in compliance with legal and organizational requirements.
• Maintain consistent and meaningful communication with donors and prospects to strengthen engagement and deepen understanding of LSWO’s mission and impact.
• Plan and execute donor appreciation events as appropriate.
• Maintain accurate and complete donor and contribution records.
• Manage special initiatives and projects that support the development team’s overall goals.

• Develop and implement a philanthropic marketing strategy aligned with LSWO’s mission and fundraising objectives.
• Oversee development and distribution of a quarterly newsletter for musicians, staff, board members, and current and prospective donors.
• Manage website content and social media storytelling to support fundraising, stewardship, and overall brand visibility.
• In collaboration with the Board, build and maintain strong relationships with media partners; secure feature stories and coverage highlighting the orchestra’s mission and impact.

• Contribute to the development…