Director of Philanthropic Development

Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, the Director acts as a strategic and operational right-hand person in implementing the department’s priorities. He or she actively contributes to the planning, analysis, execution, and evaluation of philanthropic initiatives, as well as to the positioning of the School with its donors and partners.

The position requires great versatility, strong writing skills, and the ability to collaborate at a high level with internal and external stakeholders. The Director ensures that the objectives set for philanthropic activities are achieved by supporting the planning, deployment, and optimization of effective fundraising strategies aligned with the organization’s priorities. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the vitality of the performing arts within an iconic institution.

Main responsibilities

  • Actively participate in the planning, execution, and optimization of annual and multi-year philanthropic activities, including fundraising campaigns (annual, major, and planned gifts), events, and recognition initiatives;
  • Contribute to the development and writing of strategic proposals and reporting materials for major donors, foundations, sponsors, and institutional partners.
  • Maintain and develop trusting relationships with donors, partners, and ambassadors by providing personalized and strategic follow-up;
  • Support budget management and assist Management in analyzing results, formulating recommendations, and identifying areas for optimization of philanthropic initiatives;
  • Ensure cross-functional coordination of departmental files and priorities, ensuring that actions are aligned with the philanthropic plan, that information flows efficiently between internal and external stakeholders, and that deadlines are met.
  • Support the coordination of the Advancement Committee and contribute to the preparation of strategic documents, impact reports, and follow-ups.
  • Work closely with the communications team to ensure consistency in philanthropic messaging across campaigns, publications, and events;
  • Conduct strategic monitoring of the philanthropic and cultural sector to identify new opportunities, trends, or key players;
  • Oversee the integrity and analysis of the philanthropic database (DonorPerfect), including performance reports, solicitation follow-ups, and audience segmentation;
  • Coordinate and participate in certain special projects related to outreach, alumni engagement, or targeted campaigns;
  • Contribute to the implementation of an institutional philanthropic culture by supporting other internal departments in integrating recognition or solicitation practices;
  • Replace the Chief Development Officer as needed in certain representations or operational meetings.
  • Perform any other tasks related to the mandate, at the request of Management.

Required qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (any combination of relevant experience and training will be considered);
  • Minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in roles related to philanthropy, strategic planning, or partnership development (philanthropic experience in a cultural organization or educational institution is an asset);
  • Excellent writing, synthesis, and communication skills;
  • Experience with a philanthropic CRM (DonorPerfect considered an asset) and strong ease with data management;
  • Autonomy, proactivity, rigor, and political acumen;
  • Strong interest in the performing arts and commitment to the ÉNT’s mission;
  • At the National Theatre School of Canada, French and English coexist naturally at the heart of our activities. In this context, proficiency in both official languages is an essential skill.

What we offer

  • A competitive salary with flexible working hours;
  • An attractive vacation package, including several weeks off annually, two paid weeks during the holiday period, and additional enhanced statutory holidays;
  • Comprehensive group insurance coverage, including health and dental insurance, an employee assistance program (EAP), and access to telemedicine services — all designed to support you and your family;
  • A defined benefit pension plan;
  • Free parking at the Saint-Denis Pavilion, providing convenient daily access to your workplace;
  • The privilege of working every day with a motivated, committed, and passionate team, surrounded by exceptional artists from across Canada and more than 170 talented students who represent the country’s next generation of artists;
  • All this within a bilingual, inclusive, and diverse work environment that reflects Canada’s cultural richness, where respect, collaboration, and creativity are at the heart of our values.

How to apply?

Please send your resume and cover letter to cv@ent-nts.ca by August 25, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.

Only selected candidates will be contacted for an interview.

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We support the right to employment. Therefore, we adhere to an equal employment opportunity program and invite individuals of all ages, sexual orientations, genders, Indigenous, Black, and people of color (IBPOC), as well as individuals with disabilities, to apply.

 

Apply now!

About the School

For nearly 65 years, the National Theatre School of Canada (NTS) has been training the next generation of theatre artists. Through its wide range of programs and unique pedagogy, the School has been shaping the cultural landscape from coast to coast to coast. Backed by a renewed vision and an ambitious strategic plan for the years ahead, NTS is working to strengthen its position as the theatre training institution of choice nationwide, while finding innovative ways to attract the emerging artists who will walk its halls—and who will one day help shape our society.

The Monument-National, its landmark theatre that has welcomed diverse cultural and artistic communities since 1893, is also undergoing a transformation, bringing with it a host of opportunities and challenges.