Director of Development

Overview

Aspen Leadership Group is proud to partner with the Illinois Symphony Orchestra in the search for a Director of Development. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Development will lead all fundraising efforts for the Illinois Symphony Orchestra, overseeing annual giving, major gifts, corporate sponsor ships, grants, and special events to achieve the organization’s contributed revenue goals. The Director will cultivate and steward donors, manage a portfolio of prospects, and serve as a public ambassador at concerts and community events to strengthen the ISO’s visibility and supporter relationships.

The Illinois Symphony Orchestra, under the inspiring leadership of Music Director Taichi Fukumura, is the premier professional orchestra of central Illinois, bringing world-class music to life for more than 40,000 patrons across Bloomington-Normal, Springfield, and surrounding communities. Through an array of symphonic, pops, and chamber orchestra performances, engaging Concerts for Kids, and intimate, immersive experiences such as Sips & Sounds, Around the Town, and Beyond the Stage, the Illinois Symphony Orchestra is redefining what a regional orchestra can be.

Its impact extends far beyond the concert hall. Transformative education initiatives including Itsy Arts and Music Matters spark creativity in pre-kindergarten and elementary classrooms, while guest artist residencies and ensemble visits foster meaningful connections with middle schools, high schools, universities, and senior centers, helping to build lifelong relationships with music.

The Illinois Symphony Orchestra is driven by a commitment to artistic excellence and a belief in the transformative and universal power of music. Guided by a vision to be the premier regional orchestra in Illinois, the organization embraces diversity, access, and inclusion in its performances, programs, and practices, while cultivating meaningful engagement through concerts, education, and community partnerships. The orchestra is dedicated to nurturing learners of all ages, fostering collaboration across its organization and the communities it serves, and encouraging innovation both on and off the stage.

Through responsible stewardship, long-term planning, and an investment in future generations, the Illinois Symphony Orchestra is building a lasting legacy that strengthens its communities and ensures a vibrant future for the art form.

• Lead all fundraising efforts for the Illinois Symphony Orchestra, overseeing annual giving, major gifts, corporate sponsor ships, grants, and special events to achieve contributed revenue goals.
• Cultivate and steward donors, manage a portfolio of prospects, and serve as a public ambassador at concerts and community events to strengthen ISO’s visibility and supporter relationships.

• At least five years of experience is required for this position. The Illinois Symphony Orchestra will consider candidates with a broad range of backgrounds.
• If your experience does not exactly align with every qualification listed, you are encouraged to apply.
• All applications must be accompanied by a cover letter and résumé. Cover letters should be responsive to the mission of the Illinois Symphony Orchestra and the responsibilities and qualifications specified in the position prospectus.

The salary range for this position is $85,000 to $95,000. The Illinois Symphony Orchestra offers a comprehensive package of benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance and generous paid time off.

If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or participating in the selection process, please contact Christopher Wingert at chriswin

To apply for this position, visit: