Foundation & Government Giving Assistant Manager

***Please submit a cover letter for consideration.***

About The Kennedy Center

“I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” – President John F. Kennedy

The Kennedy Center is the nation’s cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres, and is also home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra. 

At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law. 

Mission Statement: As the nation's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across America and around the world, reaching and connecting with artists, inspiring and educating communities. We welcome all to create, experience, learn about, and engage with the arts. 

Why Join Us

We offer a comprehensive range of benefits to all full-time employees including: 

• Staff offers for discount tickets
• Retirement plan with organization matching (after 1 year of employment)
• Qualifying employer for the Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
• Commuter programs including pre-tax options for discounted parking and SmartBenefits (WMATA)
• Annual Leave, Sick Leave, and Personal Days available immediately upon hire
• 11 paid holidays per year 
• Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits with FSA and HSA options, and paid FMLA
• Flexible work arrangements
• We like to have fun! Check out the Kennedy Center National Dance Day 2023 staff video!

Job Description

The Assistant Manager, Foundation & Government Giving will work with a passionate, high-performing team to plan, manage, and implement the solicitation of foundation and government grants for the Kennedy Center, including the National Symphony Orchestra and Washington National Opera.  

The individual in this role will organize and execute solicitation campaigns, research, and fulfillment of donor benefits, working directly with donors and internal staff throughout the Kennedy Center. This role includes project management within the development department, as well as regular interdepartmental engagement. 

The Assistant Manager must have a demonstrated ability to plan, organize, and manage time and projects for maximum productivity, along with the ability to shift priorities in order to achieve all high value work. The Assistant Manager must customarily and regularly exercise discretion and independent judgment in the pursuit of job objectives and goals, often under pressure. A proactive working style and an eagerness to communicate and problem-solve with a positive attitude is essential. 

Key Responsibilities

• Solicit funders at all levels, helping to ensure their continued interest in and goodwill toward the Kennedy Center. 
• Draft/edit proposals, final reports, solicitation letters, and other written materials as needed. Includes the submission of budget and financial information, and requires frequent interdepartmental engagement. 
• Provide oversight to Assistant(s) in processing gifts, drafting narrative and financial materials, prospect research, and donor recognition. 
• Cultivate and steward funders via events, ticketing, recognition, and other activities as appropriate.  
• Other duties as assigned.

Key Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or applicable professional experience.
• Minimum of 4 years development experience required
• Working knowledge of the performing arts is preferred 
• The candidate must have the ability to work without close supervision, to foresee development needs, and to generate work for this position and for others supportive of this position including Assistants and interns. 
• Strong written communication skills are imperative, as are interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Creativity is critical to communicating persuasively the need for funding, both in person and in writing.
• A professional and cordial demeanor, tact, and diplomacy are imperative as the incumbent is regularly in contact with people at all levels including Kennedy Center leadership, high-level executives, volunteers, major donors and prospects, and other personnel.
• Basic knowledge of fundraising and/or relationship management software required (e.g. Tessitura).
• Candidate must be local or willing to relocate to the DMV area.

Additional Information

• Large, vibrant, fast-paced office that values organization, proactivity, flexibility, efficiency, and teamwork
• Office culture encourages professional growth  
• Occasional event-based evening and weekend work required