The Music Hall (TMH) is seeking a dynamic and strategic Chief Development Officer to lead our contributed income efforts during an exciting period of organizational growth and transformation. This highly visible role is a key member of TMH’s leadership team and a close partner to the President & CEO, playing a vital role in advancing our mission through strategic fundraising and relationship-building.

Over the past several years, TMH has experienced significant growth—with revenues increasing from $6.1M to a projected $15.3M in FY26 (a 250% increase since FY19), expansion into new venues, and the acquisition of additional historical assets, including the Kearsarge House. Membership households of 5,000 and corporate sponsorships at over 200 have reached all-time highs, and contributed income is projected to reach over $2.1M by FY26—representing approximately 22% of our annual operating revenue.

The Chief Development Officer will oversee the already in place comprehensive fundraising program, including the final phase of the Treasure the Legacy Campaign (TLC), which aims to grow TMH’s endowment from $1.2M to $4M by 2028 with an overall campaign goal of $18M. With $10M raised to date, an active and connected Committee, and a clear path to goal, TLC presents a strong opportunity for significant fundraising success. 

The role also supports a newly developed three-year strategic plan for the New Hampshire Film Festival (NHFF)—now under TMH ownership—and will be instrumental in launching and growing the newly announced Seacoast LitFest.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading all fundraising initiatives including major gifts, membership, grants, sponsorships, special events, and planned giving
• Providing strategic alignment with the Board’s Development and Campaign Committees
• Increasing the use of digital tools and operational efficiencies across all fundraising functions
• Overseeing development strategy for TMH’s festivals and emerging programs
• Serving as a lead ambassador for TMH in the community and as the lead Major Gifts Officer with key donors
• Directing the development team of five members

This is a rare opportunity to join one of New England’s most vibrant cultural organizations at a pivotal moment—building on momentum, expanding community impact, and helping shape the next chapter of TMH’s legacy.  Interested candidates should apply by sending a cover letter, resume, salary requirements, start date availability to Ilysse Sirmaian at isirmaian@themusichall.org.

Click here for the entire job description.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Education level: Bachelor’s Degree; Master’s Preferred
• Experience: 7-10 years in nonprofit fundraising and management of development professionals 
• Demonstrated ability to grow individual giving, major gifts, and corporate sponsorship 
• Capital campaign management and oversight experience
• Specific skills: Relationship management, communications, strategic planning, and nonprofit board management 
• Passion for nonprofit arts and cultural institutions
• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality, strong organizational skills, and attention to detail
• On-site position in Portsmouth, NH office 
• Willingness and ability to work within rigorous and demanding time schedules, across morning, evening, and weekend hours including regular attendance at Music Hall events and shows
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Suite
• Experience in using CRM databases & WealthEngine screening tools; Salesforce/Patron Manager preferred

OTHER DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) and/or Charitable Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP) preferred
• Experience in developing planned giving strategies, documentation standards, and stewarding long-term relationships 
• Experienced in the use of modern fundraising technologies

References may be requested. 

About The Music Hall

Our Mission The Music Hall invigorates audiences, nurtures healthy communities, and drives economic vitality in the region, stewarding our Historic Theater and delivering high-quality entertainment, lifelong learning, and shared experiences in our venues. Our Vision To enrich, entertain, and inspire all through world-renowned and community-based programming in beloved gathering spaces. Our Core Values We are a forward-looking, exceptional organization serving our community as we collectively embody the following core values. Passion We aim for excellence and are inspired by our mission which fuels our strong work ethic and ambition coupled with having endless amounts of fun in all that we do. Trust Through timely communication, transparency, honesty, and follow-through we find mutual respect. Inclusivity We invite and reflect on differences in experience, perspective, and culture for deeper connection to one another. Accountability With clear roles and responsibilities, we thrive on metric-oriented goals and continuous improvement supported by ongoing recognition. Courageous Leadership Lives within all of us and is demonstrated through vulnerability, creative thinking, listening, learning, planning, collaboration, and execution.

Connections working at The Music Hall