Visual Arts

Desert X, a non-profit arts organization that produces an international, site-specific art exhibition, is seeking a director of development. The organization, founded in 2015 in Palm Springs, California, has produced three successful exhibitions, in 2017, 2019 and 2021. These exhibitions garnered vast international media attention and critical acclaim and were funded by an active board, local and national philanthropists, local municipalities and businesses, and corporate funders. The organization is proud to offer free admission to the exhibition, which runs for nine weeks. Additionally, it has a robust public and education program.

The ideal candidate will be self-motivated and exhibit a commitment, the skills and experience necessary to lead the fundraising efforts of the organization. They will possess excellent communications skills and demonstrate highly advanced organizational expertise in maintaining a broad spectrum of relationships. A strategic and entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, collegiality, and sense of humor will assure success. The successful candidate will join a small full-time staff and will work closely with both the executive director and the board president as well as with the communications team and, on occasion the curators and the organization’s artistic director. The development team includes the executive director, board president, a part-time administrative assistant. The director of development is responsible for advancing the Desert X mission by identifying, cultivating, and soliciting major gift prospects, corporate sponsors and overseeing all fundraising efforts including donor communications, automated donor processes, cultivation events, private trips and visits of the exhibition. They will be charged with developing and implementing effective strategies for securing and increasing financial support from a portfolio of major donors, donor prospects, many of whom have donated previously and/or will be identified by members of the Desert X board. This is a perfect position for someone in their mid-career interested in achieving a senior position, with the potential for enormous success. Skills & requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree, Master’s preferred.
• 5 – 10 years experience in a non-profit setting, preferably in an arts organization, with proven ability at fundraising, special events and team management.
• Superior judgment, professional initiative, and strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Interest and/or background in contemporary art.
• Ability to develop and lead the development strategy d work together with the entire DX team.
• Excellent administrative and organizational abilities.
• Knowledge of E-Tapestry or other database/CRM.
• Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point and Adobe suite an asset.
• Ability to effectively interact with and manage external vendors and personnel who support the department.
• Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and coordinate multiple projects simultaneously.
• Must work well under pressure and possess high levels of tact and diplomacy.

Desert X is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. The ideal candidate will live in the Palm Springs area. Some travel is required. Candidates based in the Los Angeles area or broader Southern California region who are willing and able to spend 3 – 4 months cumulatively in Palm Springs will be considered on a case by case basis. Salary commensurate with experience. Benefits provided. Please send cover letter and resume to jobs@desertx.org