Director Fundraising & Development

The Director of Fundraising and Development is a key leadership position and a member of the executive committee of Directors of TBA21. 

You will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive fundraising strategies to ensure sustained financial support for the purpose-driven programs of TBA21, which advocates for inclusion, social and ecological justice, as well as for the research and implementation of transdisciplinary, innovative and regenerative practices through its collaboration with artists.

The focus is on securing funding from corporate partnerships, trusts and foundations by building and maintaining lasting relationships, pursuing creative and innovative approaches to fundraising, and tracking fundraising performance. You will work closely with the Foundation's Directors and coordinate fundraising efforts in line with TBA21's strategic objectives to ensure financial sustainability and growth.

Key Responsibilities

1. Corporate Partnerships for Ocean Space (Venice)   

Develop and maintain (three) ongoing relevant corporate partnerships for Ocean Space, the TBA21 cultural & research space at the Church of San Lorenzo in Venice. 

Together with these partners, we envision Ocean Space as a global regenerative arts and cultural center to continue and expand our research-based and collaborative transformative projects, where we translate complex social and environmental issues into engaging and meaningful arts experiences, demonstrating how art raises awareness and understanding of current social and environmental challenges and contributes to innovative and sustainable solutions. 

These partnerships should be visible and impactful across all our respective work areas, research, exhibitions, public programs, education, and community building, with a consistent focus on the relevant contemporary challenges related to social equity, climate change, environmental conservation, and regenerative practices.

2. Public and private grants for TBA21 Academy 

Raise and secure private and public grants to support the programmatic and transformative work of TBA21 Academy, the foundation’s research arm and incubator for collaborative investigation, artistic production, environmental activism, and social justice initiatives that catalyze new forms of knowledge emerging from the intersection of art, science, politics, and conservation. 

Sourcing and applying for grants to support our main program lines with integrated, experimental, speculative and innovative approaches, particularly through research and interdisciplinary applied studies, artistic residencies, public programs and educational projects and initiatives.

3. Targeted funding based on geographical location and specific projects and activities

Sourcing and leveraging funds and grants for our global activities, not only at Ocean Space Venice, but also for our projects in Madrid in collaboration with the Museum Thyssen Bornemisza, at the Alligator Head Foundation in Jamaica, our digital activities such as Ocean Uni and Ocean Archive, and our international traveling exhibitions and public programs.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's or master’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Communications, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in fundraising, development, or advancement, preferably in environmental, arts or culture organizations.
• Proven track record in corporate partnerships, private and public grants, and sponsorships.
• Strong network within the philanthropic and corporate sectors.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to manage multiple projects and lead teams effectively.
• The ideal candidate will be proactive, highly organized, and able to navigate complex international networks to secure funding and sponsorship opportunities. 
• Fluency in English and Italian is required; Spanish is highly preferred.

Our Offer

• Join a globally recognized organization at the intersection of art, culture, and environmental advocacy.
• Work with a passionate team dedicated to creating meaningful impact through art and innovation.
• Lead high-impact fundraising initiatives that contribute to TBA21’s long-term sustainability and growth.
• Engage with global partners, policymakers, and cultural leaders to drive strategic advancements.