Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance

Director, Development Communications

The Director, Development Communications will be responsible for developing and managing an extensive communications program for The Philadelphia Orchestra’s (POA) Development Department and will serve as the lead writer and editor for all communications generated by the department.

The Director’s writing projects will include, but are not limited to, solicitations and appeals; acknowledgment letters; stewardship communications (e.g., donor impact reports, endowment reports); grant proposals and reports; collateral materials; and event invitations. Longer term, the Director will also play an important role in shaping messages and writing various materials for a comprehensive capital campaign.

The Director reports to the Vice President, Development, and will work closely with all members of the Development team. The Director will also routinely collaborate with colleagues in other departments, most notably the Executive Office and the Communications and Marketing teams.

The Director will be expected to quickly grasp institutional messaging and priorities and to craft compelling narratives around POA’s work and accomplishments. The Director will possess an adaptable writing style that can accurately capture the voice of the President & CEO, Music Director, and other key POA leaders. 

Primary Responsibilities:

Create, manage, and execute a comprehensive communications plan for the Development Department.

Work with Development leadership and colleagues to refine and prioritize the department’s communications needs on an ongoing basis.

Maintain key inter-departmental relationships to ensure that Development communications are carefully coordinated with other institutional communications.  

Other responsibilities as assigned.

Education/Experience:

Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 5 to 7 years of experience as a writer within a development office, ideally with a broad range of experience writing in some, most or all of the following formats:  solicitations, acknowledgment letters, proposals, event remarks, and meeting minutes.  

Candidates selected to interview will be asked to submit professional writing samples. Finalists will be asked to complete an impromptu writing assignment.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

Ability to write persuasively in a variety of different business styles, including a natural ability to craft narratives and to capture a variety of voices when writing for others.

Strong editing and proofreading skills, including grammar usage, and keen attention to detail. Familiarity with foreign languages helpful.

Creativity as a thinker and writer with a commitment to looking for new and interesting ways to communicate ideas.

Ability to set and meet deadlines, and to prioritize projects in a busy work environment.

Strong interpersonal skills. Flexibility and ability to work independently and as a team player with a range of constituents and colleagues.

Commitment to the mission and programs of The Philadelphia Orchestra, including an interest in classical music and music education programs.

**During the COVID-19 pandemic, the candidate must have the ability to work from home**

Working Conditions/Physical Demands:

Routine for office environment. The employee may be required to perform the essential functions of the job during evening and weekend concerts and/or events.