Job Title: Director of Development
Reports To: Executive Director
Location: Little Rock, Arkansas
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: $60-70K (negotiable)
Application Deadline: August 15, 2025
About the Organization:
As an integral part of our west Little Rock community, Wildwood Park for the Arts seeks to enrich the lives of our visitors by developing a love for nature and the arts. Through naturalist workshops, cultural festivals, classes, stage productions, and concerts, Wildwood provides people of all ages and abilities with experiences that engage the imagination and celebrate the human spirit.
Position Summary:
The Director of Development is responsible for creating and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy that supports the long-term sustainability and growth of Wildwood Park for the Arts. This leader will oversee all aspects of development, including individual giving, major gifts, institutional giving (corporate and foundation), donor stewardship, special events, and development communications.
The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker and relationship-builder with a proven track record of meeting fundraising goals and leading high-performing teams.
Key Responsibilities:
Fundraising Strategy & Execution
- Develop, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive annual fundraising plan aligned with the organization’s goals and mission
- Lead major gifts strategy and cultivate a portfolio of key donors and prospects
- Oversee grant writing and reporting for foundation, corporate, and government support
- Plan and execute fundraising campaigns and donor appeals, including year-end and online campaigns
Donor Cultivation & Stewardship
- Build and maintain strong relationships with existing donors; identify new prospects
- Create and manage donor engagement and recognition
- Ensure timely and meaningful donor communications and acknowledgments
Leadership & Management
- Supervise and mentor a development team (staff and/or volunteers), including setting goals and evaluating outcomes
- Collaborate with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and program staff to align fundraising efforts with organizational priorities
Events & Communications
- Serve as part of the leadership team that plans and executes our largest fundraising event, the annual Lanterns Festival
- Work closely with other staff and/or volunteers for various fundraising events including Toast & Taste, Giving Tuesday, and End of Year campaign.
- Work closely with the Marketing Committee to develop materials that communicate the park’s value to the public, attract new board members, and connect with potential donors and sponsors
Qualifications Required:
- Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in community engagement and fundraising
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in a leadership role
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Experience with data collection and analysis
- Passion for the mission of Wildwood Park for the Arts
Preferred:
- Experience overseeing large fundraising events – $200K and higher
- Experience managing a team and working directly with a board of directors
- Experience with donor database systems
- Familiarity with the philanthropic landscape in central Arkansas
Work Environment and Benefits:
- Flexible schedule and daily hours
- Supportive, mission-driven organizational culture
- Beautiful natural setting
How to Apply:
Please submit a resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and interest in the position to:
Dr. Bevan Keating
Executive Director
bevan@wildwoodpark.org