The American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) at Harvard University is a leading force in American theater, renowned for its innovative productions driven by risk-taking and passionate inquiry.
As the professional theater within Harvard University’s campus, A.R.T. is steadfast in its commitment to shaping the intellectual landscape of the University and fostering discourse, interdisciplinary collaborations, and creative dialogues across a spectrum of academic disciplines, institutions, students, and faculty. Moreover, A.R.T. serves a central role within Harvard’s undergraduate Theater, Dance, and Media concentration, offering instruction in directing, dramatic literature, acting, voice, design, and dramaturgy.
A.R.T. remains persistent in democratizing access to exceptional theater, and building community among audiences, artists, students, staff, and local residents. It consistently engages community members and nearby students in collaborative projects, workshops, and enriching activities, both within the theater and across Greater Boston.
The Opportunity
Under the leadership of Terrie and Bradley Bloom Artistic Director Diane Paulus and Executive Director Kelvin Dinkins, Jr., A.R.T. seeks to secure unprecedented funding for its mission of expanding the boundaries of theater.
Leading the way in building this support, the Chief Development Officer (CDO) will strategically partner with the Harvard University Development Office (UDO) to steward relationships with University and alumni donors and advance A.R.T.’s ambitious goals, managing the day-to-day operations of the Development team and collaborating closely with executive, Board, and University leadership.
Responsible for a comprehensive fundraising strategy, the CDO will lead efforts ranging from increasing membership to securing eight-figure capital gifts. While overseeing the full spectrum of philanthropic engagement, the CDO will also play a pivotal role in a $185 million-plus campaign for the new David E. and Stacey L. Goel Center for Creativity & Performance, A.R.T.’s future home on Harvard’s Allston campus, slated to open in late 2026.
The ideal candidate, passionate about the arts, will be intellectually curious, collaborative, and experienced in complex environments. Reporting to the Executive Director, the CDO will supervise the Development team and collaborate closely with the Artistic team to translate the theater’s priorities into funding opportunities that make A.R.T.’s programming possible.
