Director of Development

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Founded in 1926, the Martha Graham Dance Company is internationally recognized for stewarding the revolutionary legacy of Martha Graham and advancing the art of modern dance through performance, education, and community engagement.

Now entering its second century, the Company continues to present Graham masterworks – as well as commissions by today’s leading choreographers – to audiences in New York City and around the globe.

Alongside the Company’s acclaimed performances, the Martha Graham School nurtures the next generation of dancers and creators by providing world-class training to ensure Graham’s technique and philosophy continue to shape the future of dance worldwide.

2026 marks Graham’s centennial, which culminates this spring with a week of performances at New York City Center, a gala at The New York Public Library, and relocation to a new, purpose-built home in Times Square that will expand capacity for rehearsals, classes, and convenings.

For more information about the Company and the School, please visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

To learn about Graham’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, .

Revenue growth is essential to sustaining and advancing Graham’s artistic and educational work. In FY25, the organization secured ~$2.7M in earned revenue, driven largely by performance, touring, and School tuition. Contributed revenue totaled ~$3M, with two-thirds coming from individual donors and events and one-third via institutions.

The Company benefits from 100% participation in giving by its engaged 16-member Board of Trustees, along with support from a broad base of individual and institutional donors inspired by Graham’s artistic excellence and cultural impact.

As part of its 100th anniversary, Graham is advancing a multi-phase campaign – GRAHAM
100:
The First and the Future. Phase I is nearing completion, with a $10-million goal that includes $8 million to secure and build out the new facility in the Paramount Building and $2 million to seed an endowment devoted to facility maintenance and upgrades. Phase II is under discussion and is expected to prioritize the School and additional endowment growth.

A 5-year Strategic Plan is also underway, with early work initiated this fiscal year. Leadership expects a strong working draft to be available soon and the Plan to be finalized in spring 2026.

Together, these initiatives create a compelling platform on which to catapult philanthropy. The Director of Development will leverage Graham’s momentum by deepening relationships with longtime champions, broadening the circle of engaged donors, and translating the power of the work on stage and in the studio into sustained, mission-aligned investment.

A key member of Graham’s five-person Senior Team, the Director of Development (DoD) will serve as a strategic organization-wide leader, a hands‑on fundraiser, and a visible ambassador within the community.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the DoD will design and execute an integrated fundraising strategy aimed at significantly increasing major gifts and Patron‑level support, progressing campaign priorities, fortifying institutional support, and engaging new donors of all kinds.

The Board of Trustees is generous and eager to prioritize fundraising, and many members welcome a clearer path for introducing prospects and participating in thoughtful cultivation. The Director will coach and support Trustees by facilitating activation of their networks while respecting different comfort levels and styles. In partnership with the Executive Director and Board leadership, the DoD will also play a critical role in Board development by helping to identify and recruit new Trustees who bring philanthropic capacity, influence, and commitment to Graham’s future.

The Director…