Director of Development

Organization Overview

For 17 days every four years, musicians, music lovers and media across the world focus their attention on the International Violin Competition of Indianapolis, simply referred to today as The Indianapolis. Known for its remarkable performances, extraordinary prizes and a festival atmosphere, it is regarded as the “Olympics of the Violin,” and hailed as one of the most important competitions for launching careers of young artists between the ages of 16 and 29. London-based magazine The Strad remarked, “The Indianapolis might well be the world’s leading violin competition in terms of cumulative prizes and career development for its winners.” 

Founded under the Artistic Leadership of Josef Gingold in 1982 and now led by Jaime Laredo, The Indianapolis has hosted 11 Competitions and has named 66 Laureates representing 23 countries to its distinguished roster of prize winners. These extraordinary musicians have emerged as outstanding solo and chamber music artists in concert halls around the globe. They also have served as concertmasters of the world’s leading orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, the Philadelphia, Metropolitan Opera and Royal Concertgebouw orchestras, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Staatskapelle Berlin and the Pittsburgh, Houston and BBC symphony orchestras.

The International Violin Competition of Indianapolis is a member of the World Federation of International Music Competitions and has become a role model for competitions of all disciplines worldwide.

One of the hallmarks of the IVCI and its highly coveted prizes is the significant post-competition career management provided to the Medalists. The Laureates are also offered the remarkable prize of a four-year loan of a violin from the IVCI collection, including the 1683 “ex-Gingold” Stradivarius and three contemporary instruments.

Annual programs include a Laureate Series featuring former IVCI Laureates and guests, education outreach programs, a fundraiser called Viva il Violino and career management of the most recent Medalists.

The IVCI utilizes its world prominence to bring international attention to Indianapolis, and maintains its efforts to be a visible and collaborative member of the arts communities in Indianapolis and Indiana.

Position Summary

The International Violin Competition of Indianapolis (IVCI) seeks a dynamic and proactive Director of Development to plan and implement all aspects of a comprehensive development program including strategic planning, identifying, cultivating and soliciting individuals, corporations and foundations, grant writing, and planned giving.  The Director of Development reports to the Executive Director.

Position Specifics

Primary Responsibilities:

• Create and execute, in consultation with the Executive Director, a comprehensive development plan across all giving streams (individual, corporate, foundation, planned giving and annual fundraiser Viva il Violino)
• Engage with donors at all levels, including new and existing supporters, community leaders, and patrons, to build long-term relationships and increase philanthropic support
• Research, write and submit grant applications and sponsorship proposals to foundations, corporations, and government entities to secure diverse funding sources
• Manage grant reporting requirements, ensuring timely submission of progress reports
• Collaborate with Director of Operations to ensure timely stewardship and acknowledgement of gifts as well as financial documentation for grants
• Provide leadership and direction for development services (donor communications, gift entry, acknowledgement processes, etc.)
• Serve as staff liaison for Development at Board of Directors’ meetings and for the Board’s Development Committee

Qualifications

• 7-10 years development experience with a record of successful planning and managing of fund raising strategies and campaigns, preferably in the arts
• Proven record of successful donor cultivation, solicitation and stewardship in all giving categories
• Excellent interpersonal skills with ability to interact with volunteers, board members, patrons and artists with the utmost professionalism
• Strategic thinker with the ability to develop innovative fundraising strategies and adapt to changing circumstances
• Ability to manage multiple and competing deadlines
• Superb written, verbal, management and organizational skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a small-team environment
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Proficiency with Raiser’s Edge NXT or equivalent donor management software

Salary & Benefits

The compensation is a competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.  A generous benefits package includes health and disability insurance, retirement contribution, parking and PTO.

Other Information

Start Date: August 1, 2025 at the earliest depending upon availability of successful candidate.

How to Apply

Please email a cover letter outlining interest, specific qualifications as well as additional skills for consideration along with resume and three references to:

Glen Kwok, Executive Director

International Violin Competition of Indianapolis

kwok@violin.org

Applications accepted until position filled.  The International Violin Competition of Indianapolis is an equal opportunity employer.