Development Manager

Applications must be received as per the process outlined in the PD. Applicants who apply via LinkedIn will not be assessed.

Please read the position description and learn how to apply via the link below.

https://vapac.org.au/recruitment-development-manager-vapac/

Applications are now open for the position of Development Manager at VAPAC and will close at 5pm Wednesday 5 November 2025Job Title: Development Manager

Reports to: Executive Director

Location: Naarm/ Melbourne, Victoria

Hours: Part-time (0.6 FTE, 3 days per week), Work from Home. The exact days and hours are open to negotiation, with flexible working arrangements available. Some travel will be required for VAPAC events and meetings with stakeholders. Equipment will be supplied, and all travel costs covered.

Term: Initial 12-month contract, with the possibility of extension and potential for increased hours or responsibilities based on funding, performance, and results.

Salary: $75,000- $80,000 pro rata + superannuation based on experience

About VAPAC

The Victorian Association of Performing Arts Centres is the peak body representing performing arts centres and theatre professionals, supporting a dynamic and diverse sector of arts workers, venues and arts organisations across Victoria. Through advocacy, leadership, sector development, and collaboration, we work to ensure a sustainable, inclusive, and thriving performing arts landscape across the state.

As part of our strategic plan and exciting phase of growth and diversification, we are introducing a new role for a talented, motivated, and relationship-driven Development Manager to lead our philanthropic and corporate fundraising efforts.

About the Role

The Development Manager is responsible for designing and delivering a comprehensive fundraising and development strategy that supports the financial sustainability and growth of VAPAC, a not-for-profit membership organisation. This includes leading philanthropic initiatives, securing sponsorships and partnerships, nurturing donor relationships, and supporting grant acquisition.

Working closely with the Executive Director, the Development Manager will play a key role in identifying opportunities for revenue generation aligned with VAPAC’s mission, values, and impact goals. This role will drive revenue growth through building lasting relationships with donors, foundations, and business partners who believe in the value of a strong and connected performing arts sector in Victoria.

This role is ideal for someone with proven fundraising success who is excited by the opportunity to build a program from the ground up, meet fundraising targets, and grow the role’s scope and impact over time.

Key ResponsibilitiesStrategy & Development

• Develop and deliver a fundraising strategy encompassing individual giving, philanthropy, sponsorships and corporate partnerships.
• Set, monitor and achieve annual fundraising targets aligned with organisational goals in collaboration with the Executive Director.
• Identify new income streams and strategic fundraising opportunities.
• Create compelling fundraising campaigns and donor engagement plans that reflect the organisation’s mission and sector impact.

Sponsorships & Corporate Partnerships

• Identify and secure corporate sponsorships and business partnerships that align with the organisation’s strategic priorities.
• Develop sponsorship packages aligned with the organisation’s brand, values, and audiences.
• Build and manage strong, long-term corporate relationships, ensuring activation, fulfilment and reporting.
• Prepare sponsorship proposals and partnership agreements, ensuring delivery of benefits and impact reporting.

Donor, Philanthropy & Stakeholder Engagement

• Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with individual donors, major givers, philanthropic institutions, sponsors, and key stakeholders to secure sustainable support.
• Develop and manage donor programs, including major donors, regular givers, and campaign contributors, ensuring engagement and retention.
• Coordinate donor acquisition campaigns, appeals, and stewardship activities to drive engagement and retention.
• Manage donor communications, acknowledgements, and recognition activities, ensuring timely and consistent engagement.
• Research, write, and submit compelling funding proposals to trusts, foundations, and philanthropic entities.
• Plan and deliver targeted donor and sponsor events, briefings, and other engagement opportunities that promote visibility and foster meaningful connections.
• Work closely with the Executive Director and relevant Board subcommittees to leverage networks and cultivate strategic relationships.
• Represent the organisation at sector events and external functions to build visibility and foster supporter relationships.

Administration & Reporting

• Maintain accurate donor records and oversee tracking and analysis of fundraising activity via CRM systems.
• Provide regular reporting updates and insights to the Executive Director on fundraising performance, progress against targets, and overall fundraising activity.
• Ensure all fundraising activities comply with relevant legislation, legal requirements, and ethical codes and standards.
• Work closely with the Marketing Manager to ensure fundraising messages are integrated across marketing and digital platforms.
• Contribute to the development of the organisation’s broader income diversification strategy.
• Support the preparation of funding submissions to government bodies, trusts, and foundations.
• Assist the Executive Director with identifying grant opportunities and ensuring alignment with organisational objectives.
• Manage budget allocation and expenditure to ensure efficient use of resources.

Key Selection CriteriaEssential

• Proven experience in fundraising, donor management and/or corporate sponsorships, with five or more years’ experience.
• Demonstrated success in securing philanthropic and/or corporate support, with a proven ability to meet or exceed fundraising or sales targets.
• Demonstrated knowledge of current fundraising trends, best practices, relevant legislation, and ethical standards within the not-for-profit and arts sectors.
• Demonstrated experience in preparing successful grant applications, including evidence of grants awarded.
• Exceptional relationship management and communication skills with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Strong proposal writing and presentation capabilities.
• Ability to think strategically and deliver tactically in a self-directed environment.
• Proficiency in CRM and donor management systems with a strong understanding of data integrity and reporting.

Desirable

• Knowledge of the performing arts and creative industries in Victoria and nationally.
• Existing networks in the philanthropic or corporate communities.
• Experience working with Boards, fundraising committees, or in a membership-based organisation.

Key Internal Relationships

The Development Manager reports to the Executive Director and works collaboratively with other staff and contractors as required. There are no direct reports for this position.

Key External Relationships

The Development Manager cultivates and maintains positive relationships with key stakeholders, including:

• VAPAC Members
• VAPAC Executive Committee
• VAPAC subcommittees
• Government departments and agencies such as Creative Victoria and Creative Australia
• Funding Bodies
• Sponsors and partners
• Other industry peak bodies
• Non-member organisations

VAPAC is an equal opportunity employer, committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that is respectful and supports creativity and innovation. We encourage applications from First Nations people, people of culturally diverse backgrounds, people with disabilities, and people from the LGBTIQA+ community, and provide a working environment that prioritises Cultural Safety.

To apply, please email:

Melenie Stevenson, Executive Director mstevenson@vapac.org.au

Subject Line: Development Manager application

Include and save as one pdf document:

• Cover letter (maximum 2 pages) addressing the key selection criteria;
• Current Resume (maximum 2 pages) including the names and contact details of two referees

For questions or a confidential discussion about the position, please contact Melenie Stevenson

Applications close 5pm Wednesday 5 November 2025

Interviews will take place week w/c 17 November 2025

Applications will not be accepted from recruitment agencies.