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On site — Berkeley, CA | Full-time exempt

About Berkeley Repertory Theatre

Since 1968, Berkeley Repertory Theatre has created ambitious, innovative theatre that entertains and challenges its audiences, provokes civic engagement, and inspires people to experience the world in new and surprising ways. Over nearly six decades, more than 6 million people have enjoyed over 500 productions at Berkeley Rep, including 91 world premieres, and our work has earned eight Tony Awards, nine Obie Awards, fourteen Drama Desk Awards, a Grammy Award, a Pulitzer Prize, and the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre, among many other honors. To formalize, enhance, and expand the processes by which Berkeley Rep makes theatre, The Ground Floor: Berkeley Rep’s Center for the Creation and Development of New Work was launched in 2012. Serving some 20,000 people a year, Berkeley Rep’s School of Theatre ensures broad access to dynamic arts educational activities, especially for Bay Area youth, and provides immersive training for current and future theatre makers. In 2021, Berkeley Rep launched In Dialogue, a program that places its theatre-making skills and resources in deeper service of the community through long-term collaborations with local, socially centered organizations, as well as educating and activating our audiences around organizations whose work aligns with the themes of our productions. Berkeley Rep employs 74 full-time staff and engages 500+ artists, artisans, technicians, staff, and educators each year, operating on a ~$25 million annual budget and across a robust real estate portfolio that includes a four-building downtown Berkeley campus and a three-building production and administrative complex in West Berkeley.

The opportunity

Berkeley Rep seeks a bold, strategic, motivated, collaborative, and deeply people-centered Director of Development to lead all fundraising efforts for the organization and serve as a key member of the senior leadership team. This is a high-visibility, high-impact role for a seasoned fundraiser who brings both the rigor to manage complex, multi-year campaigns and the warmth and emotional intelligence to build authentic, lasting relationships with donors, board members, and colleagues alike. In partnership with Berkeley Rep’s Artistic and Managing Directors and Board of Trustees, the Director of Development is responsible for developing and leading all fundraising efforts for Berkeley Rep and energizing community support for the organization. This is a role for someone who loves people, loves theatre, works hard and plays hard, and brings a spirit of innovation and genuine joy to the work of fundraising.

The candidate entering this role will strategically leverage significant institutional strengths and recent momentum, including:

• A visionary executive leadership team including Artistic Director Johanna Pfaelzer and Managing Director Tom Parrish who are deeply engaged in donor relationships and bring more than a combined half-century of experience in the American theatre.
• A committed, active Board of Trustees and a strong track record of impact spanning nearly 60 years.
• A reputation as a leading incubator of new theatrical work outside of New York City, with productions regularly moving to Broadway, the West End, and stages around the world.
• A $60 million 60th Anniversary Campaign with more than $32.5 million already secured, including the single largest gift in Berkeley Rep’s history.
• A loyal and growing patron base of approximately 9,000 season subscribers and 2,000 individual and institutional donors, with significant runway at the major gift level, and an annual fund that surpassed its pre-pandemic high watermark in FY25.
• A culture of innovation, risk-taking, and artistic ambition that gives donors a compelling and emotionally resonant reason to invest.

The incoming Director will have the opportunity to deepen the organization’s major gifts work, strengthen the culture of philanthropy across the institution, and play a central role in completing a campaign that will shape Berkeley Rep for decades to come.

Key responsibilities

Major gifts and institutional giving (50%)

• Manage an active portfolio of 75–100 leadership donors and prospects, with particular focus on deepening relationships with the organization’s top donors and prospects in close partnership with the Artistic and Managing Directors.
• Support the Managing Director and Artistic Director in the development and management of their own donor portfolios.
• Create and execute personalized cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship plans for each donor, including meaningful engagement with the artistic process.
• Use wealth screening, prospect research, and data-driven analytics to identify new major gift prospects and expand the philanthropic pipeline.
• Partner with the Managing Director, Artistic Director, and Board leadership to plan, implement, and complete the $60 million 60th Anniversary Campaign.
• Supervise a comprehensive grants program spanning foundation, corporate, and government prospects, including proposal development and reporting.

Operations, management, and strategy (50%)

• Serve as a key member of the senior leadership team, shaping Berkeley Rep’s overall contributed income strategy and long-range development plans and partnering closely with the Managing Director.
• Develop and execute comprehensive annual and multi-year fundraising plans encompassing major gifts, annual giving, corporate sponsorships, foundation and government grants, planned giving, events, and in-kind support.
• Partner with the marketing team to leverage the pool of ticket buyers, subscribers, and volunteers, developing collaborative strategies to convert and cultivate them as donors.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of eight development professionals, fostering a collaborative, high-performing environment where people can take risks, learn, and bring their authentic selves to work.
• Partner with the Managing Director and Board President to energize board members in their individual fundraising roles and build a culture of philanthropy throughout the organization.
• Supervise all development operations, including gift processing, donor database management (Tessitura), acknowledgments, benefit fulfillment, and reporting.
• Partner with the finance department to reconcile expenses, forecast revenue, and manage the development budget.
• Align all fundraising strategies with Berkeley Rep’s values and equity, diversity, inclusion, access, and anti-racism commitments, advancing equitable fundraising practices across the organization.

Qualifications

• Passion for the performing arts and genuine connection to Berkeley Rep’s mission and values.
• A minimum of seven years of direct nonprofit fundraising experience with a demonstrated record of cultivating and closing major gifts, preferably at the six-figure level or higher.
• A minimum of three years of team management experience, with demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop staff across multiple areas of focus.
• Proven track record as a relationship builder with donors, board members, executive leadership, and cross-functional colleagues.
• Experience with or deep understanding of comprehensive campaigns (capital, endowment, special projects, and programmatic).
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with high emotional intelligence and cultural competency.
• Data-driven approach to fundraising, with experience using analytics to inform cultivation strategy and portfolio management.
• Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, access, and anti-racism.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• A growth mindset, demonstrating adaptive capacity, coachability, and the ability to try new things and receive and integrate feedback from a variety of sources.
• Sound judgement and the ability to handle confidential information with sensitivity.
• Experience with Tessitura or a comparable CRM system.
• Ability to travel periodically and work occasional evenings and weekends for events and donor visits.

Our team, culture, compensation, and benefits

Our values — storytelling, rigor, innovation, equity, discovery, and sustainability — shape everything we do, from the work on our stages to how we build our team and serve our community. We are committed to anti-racism, radical welcome, and creating a place where artists, audiences, donors, students, and staff of all backgrounds can belong.

The Director of Development is a full-time, exempt position with a salary range of $185,000–$200,000, commensurate with experience. Berkeley Rep offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a choice of two medical plans with Kaiser (a Traditional HMO and a High-Deductible HSA-eligible plan). Berkeley Rep currently pays 85% of the premium for employees and dependents, with the remaining 15% paid by the employee through pre-tax deductions. Additional benefits include a 403(b) retirement plan, generous paid time off, access to Berkeley Rep productions and events, and eligibility for Growth & Discovery Grants, which support staff in pursuing classes, conferences, and other learning opportunities for professional and personal development.

This role requires regular on-site presence and in-person interactions at Berkeley Rep’s campuses and throughout the community and may rarely be performed remotely. Occasional overnight travel is required for donor visits and sector convenings.

Berkeley Repertory Theatre is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. We strongly encourage candidates from historically underrepresented communities to apply. Berkeley Rep is committed to advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, access, and anti-racism across all aspects of our organization.

How to apply

To apply, please submit a thoughtful cover letter and resume to: Susannah Sallin, Search Consultant to Nonprofits at apply@sallinsearch.com with “Berkeley Rep Development Director” in the subject line.

The Berkeley Rep Next Generation Fellowship program provides tailored training and immersive, hands-on experience alongside accomplished professionals in artistic and technical production, arts administration, arts education, and community engagement.

Additionally, all fellows receive:

• Professional development workshops and educational sessions led by Berkeley Rep staff members, guest artists, and administrators
• Mentorship from Berkeley Rep staff members, including members of the senior leadership team
• Opportunities to shadow members of senior leadership, and other departments, to provide insight into the overall management and operations of the theatre
• A monthly fellowship stipend of $1250
• A one-time travel reimbursement up to $250 to assist with traveling to Berkeley at the start of the fellowship
• Shared housing with utilities included
• Complimentary tickets to all Berkeley Rep productions and other Bay Area theatres
• Field trips to local art institutions and entertainment companies

Structure of the fellowship
This full-time, 11-month program requires a commitment of approximately 40 hours per week. Schedules are determined by educational and departmental needs, and/or season scheduling. Fellows benefit from a robust support structure, including a dedicated departmental supervisor and guidance from a seasoned mentor.

Company Management, Production Management, and Stage Management positions begin in late July. All other fellowship positions begin in August.

All fellowship positions end the following July.

What we are looking for in a potential fellow
Berkeley Rep seeks applicants who have already acquired basic training and experience in their field of interest and are ready for the next step toward a career in professional theatre. Ideal candidates should be willing to engage in the creative process, eager to test the limits of their own ingenuity, and ready to join a professional, artistic community. Our goal is to support our fellows in a successful transition from life as a student to becoming accomplished theatre professionals.

What do I need to include in my application?
A complete application includes filling out our form, along with all of the following:

• A cover letter about yourself, your skills, and what you want to get out of the fellowship.
• A copy of your résumé.
• Contact information for three references.
• The following positions require writing samples: Bret C. Harte and Peter F. Sloss Artistic, Education & Community Engagement, and Marketing & Development.

What should I submit as a writing sample?

• Writing samples should be 2–5 pages in length. An excerpt of a previous work is okay.
• Artistic fellowships require two writing samples. One piece should be about a play (criticism or analysis) and the other should demonstrate your ability to communicate an idea.
• Education & Community Engagement and Marketing & Development require one writing sample. This can be an academic essay or play review.
• Please do not submit creative writing (short story, play, or movie script) as a writing sample.

Is parking provided for fellows?
There is street parking available at our Harrison Street campus. However, we do not provide parking in our housing facility or at the theatre. Our housing and theatres are in Downtown Berkeley, and free parking can be challenging. Public transportation (bus and subway) is available and accessible from all our facilities. Fellows are eligible to receive discounted fares on public transportation.

Can I apply for more than one position?
Yes! As part of the application process, you are asked to list your top two fellowship positions that you would like to be considered for.

Do you offer high school internships or fellowships?
Berkeley Rep does not offer high school internships or fellowships. High school students interested in participating in Berkeley Rep programming should check out our Teen Leadership Council.

Are non-U.S. citizens eligible to apply?
Yes. However, applicants are responsible for securing and providing all necessary visas and/or work permits for participation in the program.

Costumes
This fellowship trains closely with the costume director and staff in the workings of a professional costume shop. Through hands-on experience, the fellow learns from nationally recognized designers and artisans. Depending on the fellow’s interests and skills, they may explore areas like costume construction, wig making, costume painting, distressing, and shopping for a modern show. Ideal candidates have basic sewing skills and an interest in creating and/or designing theatrical costumes.

Lighting/Electrics
This fellowship receives hands-on learning experience working with lighting designers from all over the country for the mainstage season. In addition, the fellow assists the Lighting Supervisor in all areas of electrics, which includes using industry-standard software such as VectorWorks, Spotlight, and Lightwright, building practicals, hanging, focusing, and running of shows. Opportunities may exist to assist/design/mentor for the Berkeley Rep School of Theatre. Ideal candidates have an interest in both design and electrics.

Production Management
This fellowship is immersed in all areas of the production management process at a professional regional theatre, through mentorship by the Director of Production and Production Manager. This includes learning about leadership and management principles, creating and negotiating contracts, budgeting, expense tracking, creating and updating schedules, note taking, and assisting on facility rentals and events. This fellowship track includes the opportunity to take on small rentals, special events, and School of Theatre events such as the summer intensive and the high school theatre festival as the lead project manager, liaising between the production departments and various other stake holders. The ideal candidate is a creative problem-solver who has broad knowledge of technical theatre, excellent communication skills, and thrives in a team atmosphere.

Properties
This fellowship provides hands-on training in properties construction, carpentry, crafts, soft goods, welding, painting, research/shopping, and administration. Applicants should have a strong work ethic, problem solving, and good communication skills. Ideal candidates are flexible and have a creative personality, and have a valid driver’s license. Applicants must submit a digital portfolio for review.

Scenic Art
This fellowship follows the time-honored tradition of learning-by-doing. The scenic art fellow will learn the skills and techniques to enable them to participate as a full member of the scenic art team. Applicants with painting experience outside the realm of theatre, as well as those hoping to pursue a career in scenic design, are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates will have strong drawing and color-mixing skills. Applicants must submit a digital portfolio, including a sample of figure drawing or portraiture.

Scenic Construction
This fellowship is focused on the hands-on development of skills in scenic construction and working in a professional production shop. The fellow will learn to face challenges as a builder, welder, theatrical rigger, automation technician, and draftsperson. The fellow works with state-of-the-art equipment to transform raw materials such as woods, metals, and plastics into complex scenic elements. The scenic construction aspects of the fellowship will take place in the scene shop facility, with scenic installations in our Roda Theatre fly house and fixed-grid Peet’s Theatre.

Harry Weininger Sound
This fellowship offers training in audio and video production at a professional level. Mentored by the Sound and Video supervisor, the fellow will learn about system design, signal flow, automated and non-automated systems, wireless microphones, recording, intercom systems, repairing equipment, rigging, video playback systems, projection equipment, cameras, troubleshooting, and how to collaborate well with colleagues. From challenging dramas to large-scale musicals, the sound fellow will be exposed to many different styles of production. Ideal candidates will have a strong interest in engineering as well as design.

Stage Management
This fellowship focuses on the stage management process working under the guidelines of the League of Resident Theatres and Actors Equity Association Collectively Bargained Agreement. This fellow will work with local and out of town AEA union Stage Managers and Assistant Stage Managers as part of the stage management team on 3–4 shows per season. In most instances, this role will be a part of the full process, starting with production meetings, into the rehearsal and technical rehearsal process, and remaining with the show through runs and understudy rehearsals. Based on interest and the demands of each show, fellows may have the opportunity to shadow the Calling Stage Manager in the booth or follow different tracks on the show. The fellow may also rotate off a show after opening and into another area of interest such as stage operations, props, or production management.

Bret C. Harte and Peter F. Sloss Artistic
Created in memory of Bret C. Harte, a passionate young theatre director and Berkeley Rep employee, and Peter F. Sloss, who served as a Berkeley Rep trustee from 1991 to 1997 and was a fervent champion in the development of new plays, these two fellowships involve mentored training in all aspects of the work of the artistic department including season planning and producing, casting, dramaturgy, and rehearsal room support. The fellow will be deeply immersed in the artistic staff of a major regional theatre, working closely with the Artistic Director, Associate Artistic Director, Associate Producer, and Artistic Associate. Opportunities are provided for assistant directing, reading and evaluating play submissions, attending and organizing auditions, helping to plan and execute The Ground Floor Summer Residency Lab, writing articles for the show programs and creating other contextual work, support of In Dialogue community engagement events, as well as new projects that regularly arise. Artistic fellows are mentored by Artistic Director Johanna Pfaelzer and Associate Artistic Director David Mendizábal. Ideal candidates will be organized, motivated, and personable, with an interest in artistic leadership/producing, directing, playwriting, and/or dramaturgy. Candidates must submit, in addition to their other application materials, two writing samples — one piece should be about a play and the other should demonstrate your ability to communicate an idea(s).

Company Management
This fellowship focuses on the basics of artist hospitality and logistics, including coordinating artist travel to and from Berkeley as well as their accommodations while here. Berkeley Rep’s company management team serves as the primary point of contact between visiting theatre artists, Berkeley Rep’s staff, and the Berkeley community. The fellow will develop skills in event planning by assisting with company-wide events and learn about general theatre management while assisting with contracts, the preparation and maintenance of budgets, and other administrative projects as required throughout the season. Ideal candidates will have a high degree of personal organization, strong interpersonal skills, discretion, facility with Microsoft Office, and the ability to work in a detail-oriented manner while remaining flexible. Shares on-call duty phone responsibilities with the Company Manager.

Education and Community Engagement
This fellowship provides a comprehensive opportunity for an individual to learn about the inner workings of a multifaceted theatre education program. The fellow will participate in mentored projects focusing on programming, training, community engagement, advocacy, marketing, and evaluation. Ideal candidates will have a primary interest in the programming and administration side of arts education programs, some experience teaching or working with young people, and a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion work and antiracism.

Marketing and Development
Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn the fundamentals of both marketing and development (fundraising). Mentored by the associate directors of marketing and development and collaborating with members of both teams, the fellow will get hands-on experience in engaging and tracking patrons from first-time ticket buyers to longtime supporters across multiple communications platforms, including email campaigns, social media, and direct mail. Learn how to craft engaging content that drives ticket sales, and persuasive language that’s key to fundraising, including grant writing. This fellowship also focuses on campaign strategy, timeline and budget development, multimedia content creation, campaign execution, and analytics and reporting that will inform future campaigns. Ideal candidates have a passion for theatre, writing, and connecting art to patrons in fun and creative ways.