About the Philharmonic Society of Orange County
Founded in 1954 as Orange County’s first music organization, the Philharmonic Society of Orange County presents the world's greatest symphony orchestras, chamber ensembles, soloists and international artists. The performances take place at various venues in Orange County, including the world-class Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, the Irvine Barclay Theatre, and Soka Performing Arts Center.
The Philharmonic Society’s nationally recognized Youth Music Education Programs , offered free of charge, engage more than 100,000 students annually through curriculum-based music education programs that aim to inspire, expand imaginations, and encourage learning at all levels. These programs are made possible by the Committees of the Philharmonic Society, comprised of 500 volunteer members who provide more than 90,000 hours of in-kind service each year. As a key youth program, the Orange County Youth Symphony & String Ensemble (OCYS/E) provides top-tier training to the area’s most talented young musicians through multi-level ensemble instruction, leadership training, touring opportunities, challenging professional repertoire, and performances in world-class venues. The Philharmonic Society also promotes life-long learning by connecting with colleges and universities to conduct masterclasses and workshops, and providing pre-concert lectures to introduce audiences to program selections.
Our Mission
The mission of the Philharmonic Society of Orange County is to foster an appreciation for music by presenting national and international performances of the highest quality while also providing dynamic and innovative music education programs for individuals of all ages.
Position Summary
The Philharmonic Society of Orange County seeks an experienced Development professional who will lead and expand a multi-faceted fundraising program that includes annual, capital, endowment, and legacy gifts. The Vice President of Development reports directly to the President and Artistic Director and is a key member of the Senior Leadership Team and an active participant in making strategic decisions affecting the Philharmonic Society of Orange County.
The Vice President of Development will be instrumental in engaging the Board of Directors, the President and Artistic Director, and the executive team in the creation and implementation of a long-term fund development strategy that can sustain and strengthen all fundraising and development needs for the entire organization. The VP will help forge new relationships to build the organization’s visibility, impact, and financial resources. Additionally, the VP will design and implement a comprehensive plan for developing key external alliances by cultivating individual and philanthropic support and advancing a culture of philanthropy within the organization. In partnership with the President and Artistic Director, they will lead and manage the philanthropy strategy for the entire organization to rigorously engage new foundations, corporations, and individual donors, growing resources and securing funders to provide a deep investment in program expansion, as well as policy and evaluation efforts.
The VP will have primary responsibility for establishing and implementing the infrastructure needed to support a growing $5M budget, grow the Annual Fund, and oversee ongoing Campaign efforts for the permanent endowment through the solicitation of major gifts, federal and state grants, special events, and corporate and foundation support. As the Philharmonic Society approaches its 75th Anniversary in 2028-2029, efforts directed at growing the permanent Foundation assets will be a key focus.
The VP will ideally have significant experience developing and managing a high-performing team to achieve bold annual fundraising goals, improving systems and processes, and demonstrating financial acumen. The VP will effectively represent the organization’s development interests to internal and external constituencies and will work in close collaboration with the President and Artistic Director, and Board to achieve philanthropic goals and build a compelling and inspiring case for support.
Reporting to the President and Artistic Director, the VP supervises three direct reports: a Senior Director of Development, Individual Giving Manager (to be filled), and Development Coordinator. The VP works with the President and the Board to lead the achievement of fund development goals and strategy; to continue to strengthen the Society’s fund development program; and to chart its course for the future. The Vice President of Development also works closely with the Vice President of Marketing to maintain the Society’s brand with professional and consistent collateral, foster new community and corporate partnerships, and cultivate new patrons and donors. The Vice President will collaborate with the Vice President of Education to further our reach with members of our volunteer committees and Orange County Youth Symphony families to deepen their engagement with the Philharmonic Society.
The Philharmonic Society believes in a personal approach to donor cultivation and stewardship. With an eye toward the future, we seek to expand our donor base through innovative fundraising strategies that are based on industry best practices. Our aim is to develop and deepen long-term relationships that will, in turn, promote long-term sustainability of the organization.
This position requires a creative, collaborative, and results-oriented leader whose passion for the Philharmonic Society and for live music is matched with strong leadership, outstanding interpersonal skills, crisp decision-making in the face of complex challenges, and a proven track record of non-profit fundraising.
Required Qualifications and Experience
The Philharmonic Society is committed to creating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. The Society does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, parental status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.
ThinkingAhead Executive Search is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a work environment that supports, inspires and respects all individuals. Personnel processes are merit-based and applied without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, national or ethnic ancestry, military service status, citizenship, or other protected characteristic. This applies to every aspect of employment including hiring, training, advancement and termination. The firm is committed to creating a just culture of diversity, equity and inclusion by practicing, within the company and the marketplace we serve, intentional strategies that serve marginalized individuals and groups.