Director of Development

Position: Director of Development

Craft Alliance

Craft Alliance stands at an extraordinary moment in its history—one defined by bold ambition, renewed vision, and the opportunity to shape the future of contemporary craft on a national stage. Building on more than 60 years of artistic excellence, innovation, and community impact, the organization is embarking on a transformative new chapter. With a commitment to organizational excellence, philanthropic growth, and expanded influence, Craft Alliance is laying the foundation for a vibrant, sustainable future—and aspiring to become one of the nation's most celebrated and influential centers for contemporary craft.

The Board of Directors and executive leadership have identified important priorities that will shape the organization's next chapter, including strengthening internal systems, clarifying organizational accountabilities, investing in talent and leadership, expanding philanthropic support, and preparing for future strategic initiatives. This work reflects a fundamental belief: enduring artistic excellence requires an equally strong organizational foundation.

The next Director of Development will play a central role in building that foundation.

Building the Next Chapter of Philanthropic Growth

The Board of Directors and executive leadership have embraced an ambitious vision for Craft Alliance's future—one that builds on its extraordinary artistic legacy while building the organizational strength, philanthropic resources, and strategic partnerships needed to elevate its national influence. This next chapter calls for bold thinking, inspired leadership, and a shared commitment to excellence. By investing in talent, strengthening organizational capacity, expanding philanthropic relationships, and preparing for transformative initiatives, Craft Alliance is positioning itself for meaningful and lasting growth.Craft Alliance seeks an entrepreneurial development professional who combines fundraising expertise with strong relationship-building skills and collaborative leadership.

The ideal candidate builds trust through authentic relationships and compelling storytelling, possesses the confidence to engage major donors, and has the discipline to build sustainable fundraising infrastructure.

Professional Experience

Fundraising: Minimum five years of progressive experience managing donor portfolios, cultivating major gifts, annual giving, and driving institutional fundraising strategy.Leadership: Experience collaborating with Boards of Directors, managing budgets, supervising staff, and working cross-departmentally.Operations: Strong familiarity with donor databases, fundraising technology, and performance analytics. Capital campaign or planned giving experience is highly desirable. Context: Knowledge of the St. Louis philanthropic landscape and the arts, culture, or education sectors is a plus. Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required.

Leadership Attributes

Strategic & Entrepreneurial: Translates vision into practical strategies and measurable results.Relationship-Centered: Builds authentic, lasting connections with donors, Board members, and staff.Collaborative & Emotionally Intelligent: Listens deeply, communicates transparently, and navigates organizational change smoothly.Operationally Disciplined: Values reliable data, clear systems, and consistent execution.Compelling Communicator: Translates mission priorities into inspiring, persuasive messaging.Mission-Driven: Deeply values arts education, creative expression, and community engagement.

Measures of Success

The Director of Development will be evaluated on both revenue generation and programsustainability, specifically:Revenue Growth: Increased contributed revenue, donor retention, and diversification of funding sources.Pipeline Development: Measurable growth in major gift prospects, institutional partnerships, and donor giving levels.Operational Excellence: Implementation of reliable donor management systems, tracking dashboards, and timely grant management.Engagement & Culture: Stronger Board engagement in fundraising and tighter alignment between development and communications.

The Community

St. Louis is a philanthropic community with a distinctive blend of cultural richness, philanthropic tradition, and community pride. Home to internationally recognized arts institutions, universities, innovative businesses, and a vibrant nonprofit sector, the region has long supported education, creativity, and the arts.Craft Alliance is situated within the Delmar Maker District, a growing creative destination that celebrates artists, makers, entrepreneurs, and cultural experiences.

The organization's location offers opportunities to connect with neighboring arts institutions, businesses, community organizations, and individuals who believe that creativity contributes to a thriving community.For a development professional, St. Louis presents an attractive philanthropic environment. The region's network of foundations, corporations, individual donors, and civic leaders creates opportunities to develop meaningful partnerships and advance a compelling mission.The next Director of Development will have the opportunity to strengthen Craft Alliance's presence within this community while introducing its work to new generations of supporters.

Living in Saint Louis

Saint Louis offers an exceptional quality of life with an affordable cost of living, top-tier healthcare including the world-renowned Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine, and a vibrant cultural scene.Home to renowned institutions like the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra, The Muny, and the Saint Louis Art Museum, the city is rich in arts, history, and entertainment. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Forest Park, the Missouri Botanical Garden, and a thriving network of green spaces.

Families benefit from highly rated school systems and a strong sense of community. With a dynamic food scene, professional sports teams, and a rich history of live music and performing arts, Saint Louis is a welcoming and lively place to live and work.

Salary and Benefits

This is a full-time, exempt leadership position based in St. Louis, Missouri. The role requires an active presence in the community and occasional evening and weekend commitments for donor events, Board activities, and organizational programs. Craft Alliance offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Generous paid time off.
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Retirement plan with employer matching.
• Discounts on classes and purchases.
• Access to studio facilities.Professional development support.

Targeted salary: $120,000 commensurate with experience

Our Commitment to Inclusion

Craft Alliance is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment where individuals of diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are respected and valued. We believe that diversity strengthens creativity, collaboration,and organizational excellence. Candidates who may not meet every preferredqualification are encouraged to apply if they believe their experience, leadership, andcommitment to our mission would contribute meaningfully to Craft Alliance's future.

Application Process and Nominations

Craft Alliance welcomes applications and nominations from experienced fundraisingprofessionals interested in helping shape the next chapter of this respected St. Louisarts organization.

Join us in shaping the future of Craft Alliance—where creativity connects people, philanthropy expands possibilities, and strong leadership makes lasting impact possible.

Please submit application materials combined into a single PDF to Bryan Knicely, Executive Director for Craft Alliance: finance@craftalliance.org