Position Overview

The Development Associate is an integral contributor to Palm Beach Symphony’s fundraising and donor engagement strategy. This role supports the full development lifecycle — from prospect research and donor cultivation to event execution and stewardship — and serves as an operational backbone for the Development team. The ideal candidate brings sharp organizational instincts, exceptional written communication skills, and a genuine enthusiasm for the arts.

This position works in close coordination with the Director of Development, Patron Relations Concierge, Patron Advancement Coordinator, and Director of Special Events to deliver exceptional service to donors, prospects, and community partners.

Key Responsibilities

Prospect Research & Donor Development

• Conduct in-depth research on prospective individual donors, corporate sponsors, foundations, and grant-making institutions to support cultivation strategies.
• Identify new funding opportunities and prospective patron pipelines aligned with Symphony priorities.
• Compile research into polished briefing profiles for leadership meetings and donor engagements.

Solicitation & Stewardship Support

• Support the preparation of solicitation materials including impact reports, gift proposals, custom sponsorship decks, and gift agreements.
• Proofread, edit, and quality-assure all development communications, donor correspondence, and collateral before distribution.
• Assist with drafting acknowledgment letters, tax receipts, and stewardship communications following gifts and events.
• Prepare external meeting packages for donor, prospect, and community partner engagements.

Database Management & Administration

• Maintain the integrity of the donor database (CRM) through accurate data entry, deduplication, and ongoing record hygiene.
• Generate reports and pull lists to support fundraising campaigns, appeals, and event management.
• Support box office operations as needed during concert and event periods.

Event Coordination & Execution

• Collaborate with the Development team and Director of Special Events on all phases of event planning, logistics, and execution, including:
• Member events, Prelude Society activities, Young Friends of PBS gatherings, and signature fundraising activations (e. Holly Jolly Symphony Fete, Annual Gala, Swings for Strings Golf Invitational)
• On-site event support: guest registration, ticketing, and hospitality coordination
• Pre- and post-event communications: invitations, reminders, sponsor recaps, and thank-you correspondence
• Proofreading and editing of invitations, program books, promotional materials, and committee communications
• Represent Palm Beach Symphony with professionalism and warmth at all donor-facing events; evening and weekend availability required.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Arts Administration, Nonprofit Management, Business, or a related field; or equivalent professional experience.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including strong grammar, editing, and proofreading ability.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint); comfort learning new CRM and database systems.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• High degree of discretion and professionalism when handling confidential donor information.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset.
• Availability and willingness to work evenings and weekends for events.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable personal transportation.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds for event setup and materials handling.

Preferred

• 1–2 years of experience in nonprofit development, fundraising, or arts administration.
• Experience with donor CRM platforms (Tessitura, Raiser’s Edge, Salesforce, or similar).
• Knowledge of or passion for classical music and the performing arts.
• Familiarity with grant research tools (Foundation Directory, Candid, or equivalent).
• Active social media proficiency and comfort with digital communications tools.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This position operates primarily in a professional office environment and at concert/event venues throughout the Palm Beach area. Regular evening and weekend hours are required during the concert season and fundraising periods. The role requires the ability to remain on-site for extended event durations, move between venues, and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.