Senior Director, Advancement

Join the Vancouver Art Gallery as our Senior Director, Advancement!

Are you a visionary fundraising leader with a deep passion for the arts? The Vancouver Art Gallery is seeking a Senior Director, Advancement to cultivate and grow our community of supporters as we embark on an exciting new chapter—building a world-class cultural hub that will inspire future generations of artists and art lovers alike.

Founded in 1931, the Vancouver Art Gallery is one of North America’s most innovative visual arts institutions. We are dedicated to showcasing the transformative power of art through thought-provoking exhibitions, dynamic public programs and meaningful engagement with diverse communities. Our focus extends to contemporary and historical art from British Columbia and around the world, with a special commitment to Indigenous and Asia Pacific artists. As a charitable organization, we depend on the generosity of donors who share our belief that art has the power to shape society.

As our Senior Director, Advancement, you will:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy that aligns with the Gallery’s artistic vision and long-term sustainability.
• Lead and expand major gifts, corporate partnerships and legacy giving programs, ensuring robust support for exhibitions, educational initiatives and capital projects.
• Build and foster deep relationships with donors, art patrons, cultural influencers and corporate partners who share our passion for the arts.
• Oversee fundraising campaigns, exclusive donor events and sponsorship opportunities that engage the community and celebrate artistic excellence.
• Manage a personal portfolio of 50 to 75 philanthropic relationships from cultivation to stewardship
• Provide inspired leadership to the Development team, ensuring alignment with the Gallery’s strategic and artistic objectives.
• Champion equity, diversity and inclusion in all philanthropic activities, embedding Indigenous ways of being into our fundraising approach.

• 10+ years of philanthropy and fundraising experience, with 7+ years in a senior leadership role—preferably within the arts, culture or museum sector.
• Proven success in securing transformational gifts, capital campaign contributions and arts-focused corporate sponsorships.
• Deep knowledge of and strong connections to the local and national arts funding landscape.
• Exceptional storytelling and relationship-building skills, with the ability to convey the emotional and cultural impact of the arts to donors and patrons.
• Proficiency in fundraising CRMs (Raiser’s Edge preferred) and donor data analysis.
• A creative, strategic and results-driven mindset with a deep commitment to the transformative power of art.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced arts environment, working closely with the Board of Trustees and senior leadership team.

• Be part of a renowned arts institution that celebrates creativity and champions diverse artistic voices.
• Lead fundraising efforts for a once-in-a-generation cultural project that will shape the future of Vancouver’s art scene.
• Work in a collaborative, mission-driven environment where art and philanthropy intersect.
• Enjoy a competitive salary, extended medical and dental benefits, life insurance, long-term disability, pension contributions and generous vacation entitlements.

The Vancouver Art Gallery is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and welcoming space for artists, audiences and employees alike. We are committed to anti-racism, LGBTQ2S+ inclusion and Indigenous representation. Our workplace is a space where art reflects and uplifts diverse voices and perspectives.

Are you ready to inspire the future of the arts in Vancouver? Please apply directly with Gerard Search here. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to make a lasting impact on the cultural fabric of our city!

APPLY HERE