Development Assistant

ORGANIZATION SUMMARY:

The internationally renowned Mark Morris Dance Group (MMDG) has received “highest praise for their technical aplomb, their musicality, and their sheer human authenticity.” (Bloomberg News). Founded in 1980, the Dance Group performs the repertory of choreographer Mark Morris, hailed as the “the most successful and influential choreographer alive, and indisputably the most musical” (The New York Times), whose work is acclaimed for its ingenuity, musicality, wit, and humanity. Live music and community engagement are vital components of the Dance Group. It has toured with its own musicians, the MMDG Music Ensemble, since 1996, and regularly collaborates with orchestras and opera companies around the world. In addition to 12 full-time dancers, the organization currently employs approximately 200 full-time, part-time and seasonal employees.

In the heart of the Brooklyn Cultural District, the Mark Morris Dance Center, founded in 2001, is the hub of dance and music education in Brooklyn. The nine-studio building provides affordable classes in multiple genres for people of all ages, levels, with and without disabilities, accompanied by live music. The studios, a performance space, a Wellness Center, and ancillary spaces are all available to the community and to nonprofit organizations at subsidized rates. MMDG’s Community Education Programs partner with public and private schools and community centers to provide customized classes. MMDG also offers customized dance workshops for persons with Parkinson’s disease.

MMDG programs in NYC and worldwide engage over 100,000 people annually. Propelled by core values of community, access, excellence, and creativity, MMDG is committed to ongoing equity, diversity, and inclusion work to ensure its programs are welcoming and accessible to all.

The Mark Morris Dance Group is seeking a passionate and detail-oriented individual who thrives in a dynamic, mission-driven environment to join our team as a Development Assistant. This role provides administrative support to the development team, with a primary focus on the Major Gifts Officer, including managing donor profiles in databases, coordinating fundraising events, assisting in donor research and communications, and providing customer service for donors. They also assist with report preparation, manage scheduling, and coordinate various projects, including the Annual Impact Report. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Support the Major Gifts Officer with donor research, correspondence, and record maintenance.
• Assist in the planning and execution of fundraising events such as galas, donor cultivation receptions/showings, and stewardship initiatives such as virtual rehearsals.
• Coordinate logistics for fundraising events, including scheduling, venue arrangements, and catering.
• Assist in prospect research (individual and institutional).  
• In coordination with the Major Gifts Officer, send development communications to members and donors to support stewardship; identify/communicate new major donor prospects to the Major Gifts Officer.
• Assist with the preparation of fundraising reports, presentations, and materials for board meetings, donor meetings, and other fundraising activities.
• Provide general administrative support to the development team, including managing calendars, scheduling meetings, and coordinating travel arrangements.
• Support the Executive Director/Artistic Director in drafting/mailing thank you notes and entering that information into donor records.
• Assist with data entry and database projects as needed, with guidance from the Database Administrator.
• Provide timely customer service for donor/member inquiries.  

Supervisory Responsibilities:  None

Minimum Education & Experience Requirements:  

• Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent professional experience
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite with experience in administrative support
• Strong customer service skills with a focus on responsiveness and professionalism
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines 

SCHEDULE: This is a full-time, non-exempt position that requires on-site work. A flexible hybrid schedule may be considered after the successful completion of a six-month on-site introductory period. Availability to work weekday evenings and Saturdays for events and performances as needed.  

You Will Be Successful in This Role If You: 

• Are Passionate About Our Mission: You are deeply invested in our organization’s work—committed to the school, community, and the company’s place in the larger dance and arts world. You believe in advancing access, exposure, and opportunity to dance and music.
• Excel in Fundraising and Relationship Building: You have a basic understanding of fundraising principles and strategies, are eager to learn more, and can support efforts to identify and engage new donor prospects. You are comfortable assisting on projects that strengthen donor relationships.
• Are a Skilled Communicator and Relationship Builder: You have excellent written and verbal communication skills, whether drafting compelling correspondence, presenting ideas, or interacting with donors and colleagues. You respond to inquiries promptly and professionally.
• Thrive in Event Planning and Project Management: You are highly organized and detail-oriented, able to manage multiple projects and deadlines while coordinating meetings and events with ease.
• Leverage Data to Drive Success: You are familiar with database systems and can effectively manage detailed information accurately and consistently.
• Collaborate with Purpose and Respect: You work effectively with others, fostering a positive and productive environment. You understand the value of teamwork and bring a cooperative spirit to every interaction.
• Are a Lifelong Learner and Problem Solver: You embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, continually seeking ways to strengthen your skills and knowledge. 

We offer a comprehensive benefits package including:  

• Paid vacation, sick/personal leave, holidays and bonus days 
• Employee Health and Life insurance covered 100%, Flexible Spending Plan, Voluntary vision and dental coverage, Pre-tax commuter benefit, 403(b) retirement plan  
• Access to special events and MMDG performances (when available)  
• Access to free and discounted classes at the Dance Center and online  
• Invitations to cultural events extended to staff members by community partners. 

To join our team, please submit your resume along with a cover letter addressed to Lauren Cherubini, Interim Director of Development. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered. 

EEO STATEMENT:

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse workforce and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, or veteran status. It is the policy of MMDG to comply with all the relevant and applicable provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). MMDG does not discriminate against any qualified employees or job applicants with respect to any terms, privileges, or conditions of employment because of a person’s physical or mental disability. MMDG makes reasonable accommodation wherever necessary for all employees or applicants with disabilities, provided that the individual is otherwise qualified to safely perform the duties and assignments connected with the job and provided that any accommodations made do not require significant difficulty or expense.