Director of Advancement

Island Institute
Island Institute

Administration

Portland, ME, USA · New Square, NY, USA

USD 75k-79k / year

Posted on Aug 11, 2026

One Longfellow Square is one of Portland, Maine’s most charming and versatile non-profit concert venues. OLS offers a warm and intimate atmosphere and sets the stage for unforgettable live music, while also investing in community building through outdoor concerts, an emerging artist fellowship, and numerous collaborations and partnerships. Located in Portland’s West End at the entrance to the city’s vibrant Arts District, One Longfellow Square aims “to engage our community in the shared experience of a broad range of exceptional live music and to support musicians at all stages of their artistic journey.”

DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT

Job description:

The Director of Advancement will be responsible for all aspects of organizational fundraising. Primary responsibilities include:

  • Working with Executive Director and Development Committee to develop and execute fundraising strategy and budget; providing timely progress analysis and updates
  • Managing annual membership and appeal campaigns
  • Managing member and donor stewardship activities and events
  • Managing corporate sponsorship and community partnership activities
  • Managing (in conjunction with ED) cultivation and solicitation of major donors
  • Leading grants administration, including grant writing and effective tracking of grants research, applications, and reporting
  • Soliciting in-kind donations and manages all in-kind donation requests and fulfillment
  • Overseeing and assisting with fundraising events
  • Managing Little Green Light donor database
  • Thinking creatively about new development opportunities
  • Attending Board, Staff and Development Committee meetings
  • Assisting with communication efforts to include development content for weekly newsletter, member and donor emails, social media posts, mission-driven messaging, etc.
  • Creating and publishing the organization’s Annual Report
  • Knowledge and Skills required:
    BA in communications, business or related degree, or 5+ years related experience in a non-profit development role (arts experience a plus!)
    Demonstrated experience closing major gifts
    Successful grant writing experience
    Event management
    Excellent written and verbal communication skills
    Proven organizational skills with strong attention to detail
    Experience working in a collaborative environment
    Availability for some evening and weeknight activities
    Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office, Little Green Light donor database (or similar CRM), Canva Creative Suite, and E-mail platforms (Constant Contact, Mail Chimp, or Hive)
    Passionate about live music, cultivating community, and artist support


The employee will be able to assume a wide range of responsibilities, to work with a highly motivated and competent staff, and to work well in a fast-paced environment. The employee must be an energetic self-starter who is able to function comfortably in a team environment or independently and relates well to co-workers and the public. This position requires flexibility and the ability to manage time and multiple tasks with light supervision.


  • Compensation and Benefits
    Annual salary of $75-$79,000 commensurate with experience
    health stipend
    paid holidays, vacation, PTO/sick time
    retirement plan with employer match
    off-street employee parking
    free admission to performances
    professional development opportunities
One Longfellow Square is committed to maintaining a diverse workforce and an inclusive work environment. We are committed to equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.
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