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Position Overview

Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the Director of Advancement (DA) is EPACENTER’s chief revenue and marketing strategist. The DA is responsible for conceiving and executing an integrated plan that generates both contributed income - through individual, foundation, corporate, and government support - and earned revenue derived from space rentals, concessions, merchandising, art rentals, the box office, and other visitor-facing sales channels. The DA also safeguards and amplifies EPACENTER’s institutional brand across all communications platforms, ensuring cohesive messaging that advances the organization’s mission and revenue objectives. The position supervises a Development Manager and a Sales & Marketing Manager and works in close collaboration with program, operations, and finance leaders.

Core Responsibilities

Strategic Revenue Leadership In partnership with the Executive Director, develop a rolling multi-year revenue strategy that balances philanthropic growth with commercial opportunities. Establish annual contributed‑ and earned‑revenue goals, KPIs, and expense budgets. Monitor performance monthly and refine tactics to meet or exceed targets.

Fundraising & Donor Stewardship Maintain a personal portfolio of leadership and major donors capable of making annual gifts ranging from $5,000 to $1 million and above. Lead identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship efforts. Collaborate with the Board and senior volunteers on joint calls and engagements; produce compelling proposals, reports, and impact narratives for individuals, foundations, corporations, and government agencies.

Earned‑Revenue Development Oversee all of EPACENTER’s earned‑income lines, including venue rentals, concessions and café service, merchandising (onsite and e‑commerce), art rentals, box‑office operations, and ancillary sales such as parking. Working through the Sales & Marketing Manager, set pricing structures, negotiate vendor contracts, develop product assortments, and introduce data‑driven promotions that maximize per‑capita spend while enhancing visitor experience. Analyze margins and contribution rates, and recommend capital or staffing investments that accelerate growth.

Brand & Communications Management Develop and implement an annual communications and marketing plan that integrates institutional branding with fundraising and sales objectives. Maintain EPACENTER’s visual identity and narrative voice across print, digital, environmental, and social‑media channels; produce the annual report and stewardship collateral; serve as primary media contact; and brief spokespeople for public appearances. Build a robust repository of images, video, and testimonials to support storytelling and commercial campaigns.

Donor Events Conceive and direct a calendar of fundraising and cultivation events, from small studio tours to signature galas, that inspire giving, elevate the EPACENTER brand, and support the mission. Coordinate closely with program and operations teams to align artistic content, visitor amenities, and facility logistics.

Team Leadership & Administration Recruit, mentor, and evaluate advancement staff and external vendors; foster a results‑oriented, collaborative culture grounded in equity and respect. Oversee CRM data integrity, gift processing, and analytical reporting; present concise dashboards to senior management and the Board. Manage departmental budgets and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, grant terms, and contractual obligations.

Qualifications • A minimum of 7–10 years total advancement experience with 3–5 years at the senior or department‑head level, and a track record closing $25K+ gifts from individuals. • Proven ability to integrate brand, marketing, and sales strategies, translating storytelling into increased engagement and income. • At least three years of staff management experience and a track record of cross‑functional collaboration. • Fluency with donor‑relations CRMs (e.g., Raiser’s Edge, Blackbaud), e‑commerce and box‑office systems, email‑marketing platforms, and analytics tools. • Bachelor’s degree or commensurate professional experience required; advanced degree preferred. A deep commitment to EPACENTER’s mission, values, and community is essential.

Position Details Status: Full‑time, 37.5 hours per week. On-site presence is required, with occasional evening and weekend assignments tied to events and donor cultivation. Reports to: Executive Director Direct Reports: Development Manager and Sales & Marketing Manager

Work Environment & Physical Requirements This position operates in a standard office environment with occasional work in event spaces and retail settings. The role requires prolonged periods of sitting, frequent walking and standing, and occasional lifting or carrying of items weighing up to 25 pounds. Responsibilities include regular use of computers, telephones, and office equipment, a

Organizational Overview

EPACENTER is a vibrant hub for creativity and cultural engagement headquartered in East Palo Alto that is dedicated to inspiring imagination and activating the creative potential of all who seek greater access to artistic opportunities in San Mateo County. EPACENTER unites individuals of every age through artistic expression, supports career pathways in creative fields, and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of our community.

EPACENTER presents a dynamic range of public programs, including captivating live performances, thought‑provoking exhibitions and installations, stimulating lectures, curated film screenings, and spirited community events. Our comprehensive array of classes in digital, visual, culinary, and performing arts offers abundant opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and the discovery of lifelong passions. Additionally, fellowship programs open doors to rewarding, high‑wage careers within the creative industries. Designed as an inviting and accessible 25,000‑square‑foot space,

EPACENTER is a welcoming gathering spot where people of all abilities explore their talents, engage with inspiring ideas, and flourish creatively.