Development Coordinator

Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia (mostly on-site, with the possibility of some remote)
Compensation: $37,000-$44,000 per annum, based on qualifications and experience
Position Status: Full-Time

Application Deadline: June 20, 2025

About the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts

For over 135 years, the Maritime Conservatory has been at the heart of music and dance education in Kjipuktuk/Halifax. We are a Canadian registered charitable organization committed to nurturing Nova Scotians of all ages through the performing arts-from our youngest Kindermusik participants to our Silver Swans ballet dancers and Music Therapy clients.

Our dedicated faculty, including more than 80 experienced instructors and a growing team of Music Therapists, supports a wide spectrum of learners and clients. Based in a historic landmark building, the Conservatory is a vibrant community hub of creativity and artistic growth.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Development Coordinator who is passionate about the arts, community-building, and storytelling. This is a key role in a small, dedicated team, ideal for someone with strong writing skills and a warm, outgoing personality. You'll be responsible for grant writing, community engagement, and donor communications, solicitation and stewardship to help grow and sustain the Conservatory's fundraising and development activities.

This position is tailored for a strong communicator with a flair for relationship-building and an interest in arts-based community work. You'll work closely with the Executive Director and be supported by volunteers and other team members as needed.

Key Responsibilities:

Donor Stewardship & Relationship Building

• Maintain relationships with existing donors through regular updates, thank-you letters, and recognition efforts.
• Welcome new donors and ensure they feel valued and connected to the Conservatory's mission.
• Manage donor records and maintain accuracy in the donor database.

Annual Campaign Support

• Coordinate the annual campaign and assist in donor appeals, updates, and impact communications.
• Track campaign performance and suggest improvements.
• Solicit and steward new annual campaign donors.

Grant Writing & Reporting

• Contribute to researching, drafting, and submitting grant applications to foundations, government agencies, and corporate donors.
• Prepare timely and accurate grant reports and impact summaries.

Community Engagement

• Attend and represent the Conservatory at community and arts events to build visibility and relationships.
• Help identify new donor prospects and community partners.
• Act as an ambassador for the Conservatory's mission and programs.
• Identify new opportunities for collaboration with community organizations, partners and programs.
• Responsible for recruiting and engaging volunteers.

Sponsorships

• Identify potential corporate and individual sponsors for events, programs, and initiatives in collaboration with the Deans of Music and Dance, and the Director of Music Therapy.
• Develop customized sponsorship proposals and pitch materials aligned with sponsor interests and Conservatory goals.
• Coordinate fulfillment of sponsorship benefits, including logo placement, social media recognition, and event presence.
• Maintain relationships with sponsors through regular communication and impact reporting.
• Track sponsorship commitments and ensure timely acknowledgment and renewals.

Communications & Administration

• Draft compelling fundraising-related content including email updates, social media posts, and donor profiles.
• Maintain well-organized digital records and coordinate donor acknowledgment processes.
• Provide administrative support for fundraising activities and governance meetings.

What We're Looking For:

Must-Have Skills & Attributes

• Exceptional writing and storytelling ability
• Warm, engaging, and outgoing personality
• Ability to build genuine relationships and represent the Conservatory in the community
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as part of a small team
• Passion for the arts and the role they play in community life

Assets (Not Required but Great to Have)

• Experience with donor databases (e.g., CanadaHelps.)
• Previous fundraising, grant writing, or communications experience
• Knowledge of fundraising best practices and/or nonprofit administration
• Familiarity with the Halifax arts community.

Qualifications

• Post-secondary education or equivalent experience in a related field (nonprofit, communications, arts administration, etc.)
• 1-2 years experience in a fundraising, writing, communications or administrative role (volunteer or paid)
• Comfortable with Google Workspace, Basecamp, Canva, and basic digital tools

Why Join Us?

• Make a real impact in a beloved arts institution with deep community roots
• Grow your career in a collaborative, supportive environment
• Be surrounded daily by music, dance, and artistic expression
• Help shape the next chapter of the Conservatory's development efforts
  

To Apply:
Send a cover letter and resume to [email protected] by June 20, 2025. Tell us why you're excited about the arts and how your skills can help us grow!