Director of Philanthropic Development

Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, the Director of Philanthropic Development serves as a strategic and operational partner in advancing the department’s priorities. They actively contribute to the planning, analysis, execution, and evaluation of philanthropic initiatives, as well as to strengthening the School’s positioning with donors and partners.

This role requires versatility, strong writing skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with both internal and external stakeholders. The Director supports the achievement of philanthropic goals by helping to plan, implement, and optimize fundraising strategies that align 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 initiatives, including fundraising campaigns (annual, major, and planned gifts), events, and donor recognition activities.

  • Contribute to the development and writing of strategic proposals and reporting materials for major donors, foundations, sponsors, and institutional partners.

  • Build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with donors, partners, and ambassadors by providing personalized and strategic follow-up.

  • Support budget management and assist leadership in analyzing results, formulating recommendations, and identifying opportunities to optimize philanthropic initiatives.

  • Ensure cross-functional coordination of departmental files and priorities by aligning activities with the philanthropic plan, facilitating efficient communication among internal and external stakeholders, and ensuring deadlines are met.

  • Support the coordination of the Advancement Committee and contribute to the preparation of strategic documents, impact reports, and follow-up materials.

  • Collaborate closely with the communications team to ensure consistency in philanthropic messaging across campaigns, publications, and events.

  • Conduct strategic monitoring of the philanthropic and cultural sectors to identify emerging opportunities, trends, and key players.

  • Oversee the accuracy and strategic use of the philanthropic database (DonorPerfect), including performance reporting, solicitation tracking, and audience segmentation.

  • Coordinate and participate in special projects related to outreach, alumni engagement, or targeted fundraising campaigns.

  • Help foster a culture of philanthropy across the institution by supporting internal departments in implementing recognition and solicitation practices.

  • Represent the Chief Development Officer, as needed, at internal or external meetings and operational activities.

  • Perform any other related duties as required by management.

Required qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (a combination of relevant experience and training will also be considered);

  • Minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in philanthropy, strategic planning, or partnership development (experience in a cultural organization or educational institution is considered an asset);

  • Excellent writing, synthesis, and communication skills;

  • Experience using a philanthropic CRM (DonorPerfect considered an asset), with strong data management skills;

  • Demonstrated autonomy, proactivity, rigour, and political acumen;

  • Strong interest in the performing arts and alignment with the mission of the National Theatre School of Canada;

  • 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 essential.

What we offer

  • A competitive salary and flexible working hours;

  • An attractive vacation package that includes several weeks off annually, two paid weeks during the holiday season, and additional enhanced statutory holidays;

  • Comprehensive group insurance coverage, including health and dental benefits, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and access to telemedicine services — all designed to support you and your family’s well-being;

  • A defined benefit pension plan;

  • Free parking at the Saint-Denis Pavilion, offering convenient daily access to your workplace;

  • The privilege of working each day with a motivated, dedicated, and passionate team, alongside exceptional artists from across Canada and more than 170 talented students representing the next generation of Canadian theatre;

  • All within a bilingual, inclusive, and diverse work environment that reflects the richness of Canada’s cultural landscape — where respect, collaboration, and creativity are at the core of our values.

How to apply?

Please send your resume and cover letter to cv@ent-nts.ca by August 30, 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.