Are you ready for a career in development? Apply before May 9th!
This July, as part of the League’s new work* preparing tomorrow’s leaders, a new six-month fellowship program is being piloted, designed to identify and prepare those who aspire to senior-level careers in the development area for orchestras.
We know that there are insufficient numbers of qualified and experienced candidates available for development positions in America’s orchestras, and that the turnover rate is high.
In order to provide the learning and experience needed to prepare for a successful career in this field, two individuals will spend six months in a development department at a major American orchestra.
The program will include a six-month placement at one host orchestra. Placements in for 2008 will be either with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra or the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra—two of America’s most innovative orchestral organizations.
Each assignment will be unique, but expected learning and projects will include the acquisition of skills and understanding around:
The Fellows will receive ongoing mentoring and guidance from the development director and staff at the orchestra and are expected to complete at least one major development-related project during their placement.
Development Fellows will also grow their skills by traveling to one to two additional orchestras to observe development operations. The League will provide access to funding of up to $3000 in the 2-3 years following the Fellowship for further professional development.
Development Fellows will have regular contact with League staff to discuss their progress and projects and to provide feedback during and following the Fellowship period. Written assessments will be completed by both the Fellow and the host orchestra mentor at the mid-point and conclusion of the placement.
Those who are committed to a career in American orchestras in the development area are encouraged to apply, including personnel from inside and outside orchestras, career changers, and recent graduate students (MBA/ MFA/ MA). Prospective Development Fellows should have a basic knowledge of fundraising and a year or more of work experience, either as an intern or staff member.
Candidates should complete the on-line application and submit all required materials not later than April 25, 2008. Selected finalists will be scheduled for an interview with a member of the Selection Committee prior to May 16. Fellows for the 2008 season will be announced May 23, 2008.
Development Fellows should begin their placement on July 1 and conclude in December 2008.
Application Deadline: May 9, 2008.
Click here to apply!
For more information, contact Allison Ball, Director of Leadership Training and Recruitment
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or 646.822.4027
* League Resources for Development Personnel
This program is modeled on our 28 year-old Orchestra Management Fellowship Program, and is part of the larger portfolio of offerings available for development personnel, including Orchestra Leadership Academy seminars, mentoring circles, the 2009 Executive Leadership Program (which will admit marketing and development personnel), list serves, and constituency meetings at Conference. All this is just part of the Learning and Leadership Development department, a key component of the League’s mission to model the future.
The League’s Development Fellowship is made possible in part by a grant from the Argosy Foundation.
Look for the Marketing Fellowship Program Launch in 2009