Development Director

BACKGROUND

Be part of a growing, dynamic children’s theatre company. Housed in Lincoln Park’s historic Greenhouse Theater Center, the Young People’s Theatre of Chicago (YPT) launched in 2021 to engage, entertain, and educate children of all ages and backgrounds via extraordinary theatrical experiences. YPT’s inaugural season saw two world premieres and the sold-out run of Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus. YPT’s sophomore season added its inaugural YPT for Teens production and the hip-hop soul of Last Stop on Market Street. The just concluded ‘24-‘25 season saw the return of Pigeon and critically lauded productions of Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds and Charlotte’s Web. Critically, the TYA company has welcomed 10,000 local school children to weekday school matinees in just its first three seasons.

YPT expands next season to a four-show mainstage season, with additional plans to introduce theatre camps and commission new work. The company also anticipates audience growth of over 50%.

The 501(c)3 organization has a committed board of directors, a dedicated staff, and the participation of dozens of local educators whose ongoing commitment to the company demonstrates the need for YPT in the community.

POSITION SUMMARY
YPT seeks a development director to oversee fundraising activities. Reporting to the managing artistic director, the development director will also work closely with the general manager, the development committee, and the board of directors to raise the profile of the organization and significantly increase fundraising income.

The development director should bring creative energy, a spirit of teamwork, and be committed to sharing the story of YPT to a broad and growing constituency.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE

• develop and execute fundraising strategies

• manage and steward donor relationships, including annual campaign, major gifts, and sponsorships

• grant writing for operations and technical assets (working closely with managing artistic director)

• organize fundraising events (with development committee and general manager)

• manage donor website page (with general manager)

• donor database management (with general manager)

• other development activities as needed

While this is intended to be an accurate description of the job, this is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills, efforts, requirements or working conditions associated with the position, and may require that other or different tasks be performed as necessary and assigned.

Those interested in applying should have a bachelor’s degree, along with excellent written and verbal communication skills and organizational abilities. A background or experience in Arts Management is a plus. The new development director must be proficient in Microsoft Office, Graphic Software, Direct Mail software, etc. This is a full-time position. Some evening and weekend work (including attendance at some performances) required.

The Young People’s Theatre of Chicago is committed to fostering an inclusive environment both onstage and off. We are actively seeking talented applicants from all ethnicities, races, and backgrounds. YPT is an equal opportunity employer and encourages all to apply.