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Director of Development


NewFest, New York’s leading LGBTQ film and media organization, is seeking a full-time Director of Development to help drive the organization’s financial growth and expand and diversify its contributed revenue streams.  

Founded in 1988, NewFest is the largest queer film festival in the United States, and the largest convener of LGBTQ+ audiences in New York City. NewFest’s mission is to give voice and visibility to the full scope of the LGBTQ+ experience through films and programs that entertain, educate, and empower. NewFest presents year-round screenings and events, including 

– The New York LGBTQ+ Film Festival, held annually each October

– NewFest Pride, held annually each June 

– Queering the Canon, held annually each April 

In addition, NewFest currently has three artist development programs, and partners with the NYC Department of Education on a screening series for high school students. NewFest also works with studios, networks, and streamers to present advance screenings of LGBTQ+ content, often accompanied by social events. 

NewFest seeks a Director of Development with an energetic, entrepreneurial attitude, a collaborative spirit, and a well-founded dedication to and excitement for the mission of this organization. With a firm knowledge of the arts and LGBTQ+ landscape in New York City and the funding and donor community that supports it, this leader will be a key contributor to the organization’s forward momentum. 

Revenue and budget have more than quadrupled to around $2M in the last five years, with more than 60% coming from contributed revenue. At this transitional moment for the organization, this leader will take the work already started to the next level of sustainability and maturity.

The Director of Development will report to the Executive Director and oversee additional part-time or seasonal team members. Responsible for setting and managing an annual fundraising plan, the Director of Development will be a key thought leader, working with the Executive Director, senior staff, and the Board to develop and execute innovative fundraising strategies.

The responsibilities of the role include: 

Development Strategy 

– Collaborate with the Executive Director to create a holistic, multi-year strategic fundraising plan, which maps the goals for sustaining and growing the organization’s portfolio of contributed income streams through government, foundation, corporate, and individual funding and sponsorships

– Develop and implement long- and short-term development strategies, including the management of NewFest’s annual fundraising calendar 

– Support the Executive Director and board of directors with development and stewardship efforts, empowering them to act as key spokespeople and fundraisers for the organization

Individual Giving 

– Develop and execute a comprehensive plan for the cultivation and stewardship of individual donors, with the goal of increasing individual giving and ensuring the effective advancement of prospects and donors by arranging, strategizing, and participating in cultivation and solicitation meetings 

– Maintain a portfolio of individual prospects to secure major gifts, including support for general operations, artist development programs, education initiatives, and annual events 

– Strategize with programming team to identify individual donors and make program-specific funding requests 

– Work with marketing team to promote annual memberships, and working to turn members into donors

Corporate Fundraising

– Work with Executive Director to establish and steward relationships with current and new corporate funders and partners, including 

       – Sponsorship for NewFest’s flagship festivals

       – Artist development initiatives

      – Tailored Employee Resource Group events

– Secure in-kind sponsorship of events, including alcohol donations and media sponsorships

– Work with Executive Director and Director of Programming team to identify opportunities for sponsored screenings and/or communication with networks, studios and streamers

– Work with sponsors and internal teams to facilitate fulfillment of sponsor benefits

Institutional Fundraising

– Partner with the Executive Director and supervise grant writer to manage and expand NewFest’s portfolio of foundation funders 

– Oversee the gathering of information and materials for grant proposals, reports and updates, and ensure grant compliance and delivery of expected grant outcomes

– Partner with the Executive Director to strengthen relationships with government agencies, elected officials, and other public funders

Events 

– Oversee NewFest’s fundraising events, including small dinners and cultivation moments at flagship festivals, and ensure maximization of revenue and engagement goals

– Collaborate with NewFest’s programming team to design and execute compelling and financially successful events and donor cultivation opportunities

Board of Directors 

– Serve as a primary liaison with NewFest’s board of directors, and guiding and supporting the work of the fundraising committee

– Engage, cultivate, and work with the board to increase its fundraising capacity and ensure robust participation in fundraising activities 

– Partner closely with board members and organizational leadership to create and implement strategies for leveraging board members and their networks 

Development Infrastructure 

– Build and strengthen organizational infrastructure to support the development program, including assessing team structure and expanding the development team as needed to meet goals

– Develop and implement consistent, efficient, and scalable policies and procedures for all aspects of development operations, including fundraising communications, prospect research, moves management, and gift acknowledgements and processing 

– Lead the creation of messaging and content for donor materials and communications, including annual reports, funder reports, sponsorship decks, strategic plans, and other organizational materials 

Requirements 

– 5+ years of fundraising experience, and an approach grounded in traditional fundraising strategies paired with a creative and entrepreneurial mindset for exploring new and innovative fundraising strategies 

– Demonstrated ability in building, cultivating, and sustaining relationships over time, and collaborating with senior leadership on relationship management

– Strong track record of creating and cultivating long-term relationships with individual/major donors and board members 

– Proven experience in scaling development programs and managing growth in a nonprofit setting

– Demonstrated success in securing new individual and corporate funding and exceeding ambitious fundraising goals 

– Experience building and maintaining fundraising infrastructure, leading teams, and mentoring staff 

– Experience with donor management software and CRM systems

– Ability to analyze fundraising data, track progress towards goals, and make data-driven decisions to optimize fundraising efforts

– Flexibility to work at both a strategic level and to manage the day-to-day tasks associated with the implementation of a robust development program at a small organization 

– Familiarity with, and active interest in, the film and television industry, as well as the LGBTQ+ community space

– Maturity and polish to serve as a primary representative of the organization to funders and donors

– An excellent communicator and storyteller; ability to make NewFest’s work come alive through superior written materials, stories, and talking points 

– A creative self-starter with the ability to work both independently and as a collaborative member of a small and high-energy team

The salary range for this position is $100K – $110K. Benefits include medical, dental and vision insurance, and a generous PTO policy. 

NewFest is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion in all facets of the organization and welcomes recommendations, nominations, and applications from all qualified candidates. 

Please prepare a cover letter that describes your specific interest in NewFest and outlines your qualifications for the position and submit with a resume and contact information for three professional references. All applications will be treated as confidential and references will not be contacted without the candidate’s knowledge and agreement. 

Application materials should be submitted at https://airtable.com/app1QFgkNdtu1Z2ZZ/shrA98SA9WFMpbtKA

 
Senior Manager, Filmmaker Relations

Scope of Work: The Senior Manager of the Filmmaker Relations Dept will report to NewFest Leadership including the Ex. Director and Festival Producer. This role oversees and leads a team that works alongside additional internal departments, including but not limited to Exhibition, Production, and Audience Services, focusing on workflows aligned with guest logistics for all NewFest participants. They will also manage communication with Features filmmakers leading up to and throughout the festival and operate as their on-sight point of contact throughout the festival.

Dates:

– 8/11 – 8/29/25: Part Time

– 9/2 – 10/19/25: Full Time

– 10/20 – 10/31/25: Part Time

Location: This position is mostly remote but must be on-site during the festival and attend site visits as needed

Project Rate: $9,000 – $10,500.

Compensation is based on experience and actual start date

Duties and Responsibilities include:

– Hire, lead and supervise staff assigned to the Filmmaker Relations Department

– Identify additional staffing needs and build to the team as needed

– Manage the day-to-day operations of the Filmmaker Relations team, troubleshoot various issues as they arise, and provide feedback on panelist and filmmaker questions

– Create and update strategy, operational, and logistical plans to ensure all invited NewFest participants are provided a high level Festival experience.

– Design and implement a communication plan and guest benefit structure

– Develop and manage department and interdepartmental timelines and procedures to ensure administrative, operational, and strategic goals and deadlines are met

– Participate in discussions for strategic planning to convey departmental updates and receive and share important information with the Filmmaker Relations team.

– Ensure Filmmaker Relations Team supports both the in-person and virtual experience, coordinating all guest benefits, submitting ticket and credential requests, booking travel and lodging, coordinating ground transportation, participation in events, etc.

– Collect, enter, and maintaining accurate filmmaker information across all systems

– Communicate with Features Filmmaker Teams regarding such logistics as: ticketing, credentials, intro/Q&A participation, festival events, ROS details by program, social toolkit, festival promotion, thank you letters, etc…

– Schedule and coordinate guest availability for participation in festival programs. This includes but is not limited to intro’s, Q&A’s, panels, red carpets, itineraries, and special events

– Work with publicity to stay abreast of red carpet activities and ensure departmental presence and support

– Work with Director of Programming and Executive Director to coordinate and negotiate travel and lodging support for select attending filmmakers

– Work with Programming and Exhibition on scheduling and coordinating Virtual Q&A recordings.

– Update and report to Programming and Operations teams with any filmmaker changes and special requests leading up to and during the festival.

– Join all production meetings leading up to and during the festival

– Coordinate ticketing and accreditation needs in a timely and effective manner

– Be available throughout festival to support participants with questions, requests, and needs

– Be stationed at our TBD ‘festival lounge’ as available throughout festival

– Support the Filmmaker Relations Director in the development of the ‘festival lounge’

– Escort filmmakers to screenings as warranted

– Submit comprehensive Wrap Report

– Other duties assigned

– Submit a wrap report with relevant documents and information

Application materials should be submitted at https://airtable.com/app1QFgkNdtu1Z2ZZ/shrKrz0hHpY0vYDr4
Industry Coordinator

Scope of Work: The Industry Coordinator reports to the Industry Manager and collaborates closely with internal departments including but not limited to Operations, Programming, Development, Marketing & Communications, Production, Filmmaker Relations, Publications, and Audience Services. From pre-production through post-production, the Industry Coordinator will support the planning and execution of all Industry Programming and guest engagement.

Dates: September 2 – October 31, 2025

9/2 – 9/5: 5-10hr/week

9/8- 9/26: 15-20 hr/ week

9/29 – 10/17: 20-30 hr/ week

10/20 – 10/31: 5-10 hr/ week

Location: The majority of the scope for this position is remote, but NYC-based candidates will be given priority as on-site visits and planning will be needed leading to the festival. On-site presence is required during the festival.

Project Rate: $4,500-$5,000. Compensation is based on experience and start date.

Duties and Responsibilities include:

Assist with the planning and execution of all industry programming and events

Manage accreditation process and operations (badge pickup, ticket requests, RSVPs), in collaboration with Industry Manager

Participate in conversations around scope, scale, and brainstorming around festival panels and contribute to programming and confirming panels

Work with Industry Manager to propose and support the ideation, coordination, and execution of “NewFest37 Industry Day” screenings/panels in tandem with partners/sponsors and venue/production teams

Work with Industry Manager to collaborate on securing and managing panels, as well as industry participants at the Festival

Work with Industry Manager to coordinate and secure panel discussions, comprised of actors, directors and other talent on intriguing topics for our audiences

Participate in Industry Engagement + Outreach meetings to ensure systems and communications are aligned across departments both in lead-up to, and during, the festival

Support the planning and coordination of Industry Day logistics, including venue needs, A/V requests, and scheduling details

Assist with preparing materials such as run-of-show documents, panelist itineraries, and event signage

Coordinate with vendors, staff, and industry guests to track confirmations, gather information, and ensure details are organized ahead of the event

Collaborate and align with Industry, Audience Services and Communications team on processes to ensure clear communication on Industry badge pick-up, ticket requests, and invitations to accredited industry attendees on relevant events and parties during the festival

Help communicate to all accredited Industry on badge pick-up and invitations to relevant events

Help with the creation of Industry guest list and the delivery of all relevant materials and assets

Promote and ensure industry attendance at key events (e.g. Queer Media Mixer, New Voices Showcase, Panels, potential WIP screening, Filmmaker & Awards Brunch)

– Other duties assigned

Experience/Skills Required:

– Event coordination and logistics management (panels, screenings, A/V, scheduling)

– Guest and talent relations; managing RSVPs, itineraries, and on-site needs

– Strong project and time management; ability to multitask and meet deadlines

– Effective cross-department collaboration and communication

– Database and admin skills; proficiency with Airtable, Google Suite, and Excel

– Prior on-site festival or large-scale event experience

Preferred Skills:

– Knowledge of the queer media landscape, key players, and current conversations

– Established relationships with industry professionals, talent, and organizations

– Experience supporting sponsor or partner activations at events/festivals

– Comfort with public-facing communication and engaging diverse audiences

Application materials should be submitted at https://airtable.com/app1QFgkNdtu1Z2ZZ/shrEPqS7MfjNzUxer
Events Team Admin Production Assistant

The Events Team Admin PA plays an integral role within the organization, collaborating closely with the Production Manager and Events Manager, as well as various departments to effectively coordinate, support, and execute all production-related tasks and responsibilities associated with our special events throughout the stages before, during, and after the festival.

Dates: 9/23/25 – 11/1/25 (part time to start, leading up to full time)

Location: The majority of the scope for this position is remote, but NYC-based candidates will be given priority as on-site visits and planning will be needed leading to the festival. On-site presence is required during the festival.

Project Rate: $2,600-$3,400 Compensation is based on experience and start date.

Duties and Responsibilities include:

Attend and actively participate in all production meetings leading up to and during the festival.

Assist the Special Events Manager and the Production Manager with various administrative tasks related to event planning and execution.

Coordinate logistics for festival events, including scheduling, vendor communications, and volunteer confirmations.

Support Special Events Manager with event activation research and coordination.

Support supply management for events, ensuring timely pickups, deliveries, and accurate inventory.

Be on-site for event preparations, including check-ins, set-ups, and clean-ups, providing general event support and addressing last-minute tasks as they arise.

Assist with maintaining tracking systems to support the work of the Production Department, ensuring accurate documentation and communication.

Support the planning, ordering, and distribution of all event materials, signage, and equipment.

Assist with the transportation, delivery, strike, and storage of materials before, during, and after the festival.

Assist with loading in and out of event venues, with ability to lift up to 20lbs as needed

Submit a wrap report with relevant documents and information

– Other duties assigned

Experience/Skills Required:

Must have experience working within a production or operations department, particularly in film festivals, theater venues, or similar environments.

Experience in inventory management, particularly for festival production supplies, food & beverage, concessions, signage, and equipment.

Extensive knowledge of Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Drive, etc.), with the ability to create and manage documents, spreadsheets, and shared resources.

Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively and maintain clear, professional interactions with vendors, volunteers, and team members.

Must be comfortable with some degree of physical labor, including setup, breakdown, and transportation of materials, lifting up to 20lbs as needed.

– Ability to be on-site in NYC as required for site visits, periodic office work days, and during the entirety of the Festival (Oct 9th-21st).

Preferred Skills:

Experience with Airtable or similar project management databases.

Familiarity with some or all of our screening venues including SVA Theatre, BAM, Nitehawk Prospect Park, The LGBTQ+ Center, The Moxy Hotel in Chelsea, etc

Familiarity working in vendor relations in the event space.

Ability and comfort driving large vehicles, such as vans or trucks, for transportation of materials if/when a driving production assistant is unavailable.

Application materials should be submitted at https://airtable.com/app1QFgkNdtu1Z2ZZ/shrv7gIgu6UCYyRUN
Audience Services Coordinator

The Audience Services Coordinator will be responsible for assisting the Audience Services Department with festival ticketing/accreditation and registration-related tasks and responsibilities, with a focus on credentials. This position can work remotely leading up to the festival but is anticipated to work on site for the duration of the festival dates (plus any pre-festival time needed to collect/assemble credentials).

Dates:

In-Person Festival Dates: 10/9/2025 – 10/19/2025

Contract Dates: 9/8/2025-10/26/2025

– 9/8-9/19: Up to 10 hours/week – 20 total

– 9/22-10/3: Up to 20 hours/week – 40 total

– 10/6-10/19: Full-time (NewFest Lounge opening hours) – 80 total

– 10/20-10/26: Up to 5 hours (Wrap Week)

Project Rate: $2,900-$3,250. Compensation is based on experience and start date.

Duties and Responsibilities include:

Handle the creation of all festival-wide credentials:

  • Work with the Publications team to ensure all badge types are designed

  • Compile lists of everyone requiring the various types for pre-printing

  • Handle on-site printing of late additions, redos, etc. throughout the festival

  • Manage the assembling of credentials in the days leading up to Opening Night (volunteers will be available to assist)

  • Be based at the NewFest Lounge throughout the festival to handle all credential pick-up

  • Manage the Credential Pick-Up Tracker to ensure it’s always up to date

  • Other Credentialing duties, as needed


Assist with internal ticketing requests & the compilation of event RSVP lists, as needed

Attend required staff meetings to provide updates

– Other Audience Services or registration-related duties, as assigned

Submit a wrap report with relevant documents and information

Experience/Skills Required:

Festival, event and/or Credentialing experience, required

Customer service experience, highly preferred

Elevent ticketing system knowledge, preferred

Detail-oriented, organized, and able to work independently

Application materials should be submitted at https://airtable.com/app1QFgkNdtu1Z2ZZ/shrv7gIgu6UCYyRUN