Development Director

The Hermitage Artist Retreat seeks a passionate, intelligent, and driven Development Director with experience in all aspects of fundraising and donor relations to sustain and grow the organization’s development efforts. The organization has grown significantly under Artistic Director/CEO Andy Sandberg, including revenue and programming growth, new partnerships, expanded commissioning initiatives, and a growing network of supporters and alumni artists. The Hermitage offers year‑round free programs on a beachfront campus and at other locations in the region. In early 2025, a new Development Director will join the Hermitage team to continue moving the organization forward. The ideal candidate should be enthusiastic about supporting innovative artists across disciplines and eager to play a vital role in a fast-paced, growing arts organization. The role requires a high standard of excellence in project and database management, a deep appreciation for donor relations and hospitality, and the ability to multitask in a deadline-driven environment. This is a full-time, on-site position in Sarasota County, Florida, reporting to the Artistic Director/CEO and working closely with a team of dedicated professionals. About the Hermitage Artist Retreat The Hermitage is a leading national arts incubator and multidisciplinary artist retreat serving artists, the creative process, and the community. Located on a nine-acre beachfront campus in Manasota Key, Sarasota County, Florida, the Hermitage provides multi-week residencies for artists creating work in theater, music, visual art, literature, dance, film, and more. Fellows include Pulitzer Prize winners, nominees and winners of Tony, Oscar, Emmy, and Grammy awards, Poets Laureate, MacArthur Fellows, Guggenheim Fellows, and other notable artists. The organization presents works and offers free community programs in collaboration with local arts organizations. The Hermitage also pursues missions in historic preservation, ecological restoration, and community engagement. The Hermitage is the only major arts organization on Florida’s Gulf Coast exclusively focused on developing and creating new work across all disciplines. About Sarasota County, Manasota Key, and Florida’s Gulf Coast Sarasota County is a fast-growing region where arts, culture, outdoor activities, philanthropy, and a vibrant food scene contribute to a high quality of life. The Hermitage is located in Englewood, on Manasota Key, near Northport, Venice, and Port Charlotte. Manasota Key is a barrier island near Siesta Key, Casey Key, and Boca Grande. Major nearby cities/airports include Tampa (TPA), Fort Myers (RSW), and St. Petersburg (PIE). About the Position The Development Director is responsible for organizing, managing, and executing the annual fundraising plan in support of the Hermitage’s mission and strategic plan. The role is a member of the senior management team and oversees a team of three staff (Grants Manager, Senior Development Associate, Development Coordinator). The Development Director collaborates with staff, trustees, donors, artists, marketing, events personnel, and community partners. This is a hands-on leadership role that ensures best practices in fundraising operations and data management, including managing fundraising software and reporting. Duties & Responsibilities Organizational Leadership & Strategy Assess needs, develop and execute a comprehensive annual fundraising plan (annual, major, planned giving, institutional grants, and events). Advise the Artistic Director/CEO on strategic and operational development activity; collaborate with the senior management team. Develop, manage, and report on the annual fundraising budget; develop and implement fundraising policies and procedures as needed. Represent the Hermitage at community events and programs as needed. Individual Giving Develop and expand fundraising strategies to increase donor acquisition/retention, deepen engagement, and grow the base of support. Build a portfolio of major donors and prospects; create personalized plans aligned with organizational needs and donors’ interests; include planned giving options. Manage an Annual Fund program, including appeals and campaigns, with LYBUNT/SYBUNT outreach. Maximize technology use for donor identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. Oversee donor relations, event logistics, timelines, budgets, and records; manage invitations, RSVPs, and event coordination. Lead donor relations and stewardship activities; coordinate donor communications with development and organizational colleagues. Develop fundraising communications for print, website, and digital media; oversee fundraising database management and reporting; ensure timely gift processing and donor recognition. Institutional Giving Foster partnerships with foundations and sponsors to support the Hermitage’s mission and community engagement. Oversee grants management process, including research, applications, and reporting; draft or edit grant proposals as appropriate. Board Relations Liaise with the Board of Trustees on all development activities; engage Board members in fundraising efforts and donor relationships. Prepare development reports for Board meetings; assist with onboarding and stewardship of potential Board members. Compensation The salary for this position is $100,000–$125,000. Benefits include health/dental/vision insurance, a matching IRA, paid time off, and parking. A relocation stipend may be considered. The Hermitage is located on Manasota Key, Sarasota County, Florida. This is a full-time, on-site position; non-local candidates should relocate to the region. The Hermitage is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to an inclusive environment for all employees, artists, guests, and community members. Requirements

Qualifications A passion for the Hermitage’s mission, vision, and values. Proven excellence in organizational, managerial, and communication skills. Successful fundraising experience from diverse sources (individuals, foundations, corporations, government). Expertise in fundraising communications and donor relations; experience planning major donor events and board engagement. Strong interpersonal skills and leadership abilities; entrepreneurial, proactive, and adaptable. Ability to manage confidential information with discretion; experience with donor databases and Salesforce is a plus. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and G Suite; ability to troubleshoot basic office equipment. Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed. Bachelor’s degree required; progress toward or attainment of CFRE/ACFRE a plus. Application Instructions The Development Director search is conducted on behalf of the Hermitage by Tom O’Connor Consulting Group. To apply, visit the online application at the provided link and submit materials including a cover letter highlighting relevant experience and fit. The priority deadline is July 16, 2025; applications received by this date receive priority consideration, but applications may be considered after the deadline. Diversity of experience and background is welcomed.

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