Director, Board Relations

LINCOLN CENTER•New York, NY

About The Position

The Director, Board Relations is responsible for developing Lincoln Center’s Board of Directors as engaged philanthropic leaders, strategic partners, and ambassadors for the institution. Reporting to the Senior Director, Individual Giving, this role leads a high-touch engagement and stewardship strategy that enables sustained giving, thoughtful governance, and Board growth. The Lincoln Center Board brings together a distinguished and accomplished group of leaders—spanning business, culture, and philanthropy in New York and beyond—whose collective vision and generosity have shaped a world-class campus, championed extraordinary artists, and positioned Lincoln Center as the leading performing arts organization in the world. The Director is the primary relationship manager for trustees, partners closely with Senior Leadership, and supervises the Board Relations Manager, to develop a deep understanding of the power and impact our Board has on the next chapter at Lincoln Center and what drives them each individually and then collectively to do so. Through this comprehensive strategic approach, you will ensure a seamless, best-in-class experience for Board members across engagement, storytelling, stewardship, and philanthropy.

Requirements

At least 7 years of experience in advancement and board relations, preferably within a large nonprofit or cultural organization
Prior experience in board cultivation, development and stewardship and/or individual major gifts fundraising (six-figures+)
Exceptional relationship-building skills and impact working with senior executives, including high-net-worth individuals
Strong strategic instincts paired with meticulous attention to detail
Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills, with an eye for clarity and presentation
High levelof professionalism, judgment, and the exercise of discretion and confidentiality
Excellent oral and written communication skills
People management experience
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience

Nice To Haves

Enthusiasm for the performing arts
Knowledge of and experience with non-profit governance

Responsibilities

Drive Board stewardship, ensuring a responsive, personalized, and meaningful trustee experience
Develop and oversee individualized engagement and stewardship plans that support long-term trustee retention and fulfillment and philanthropic growth
Partner with the SVP, Advancement and Innovation, to develop Board giving strategies that inspire philanthropic support beyond annual Board dues, encouraging trustees to champion new artistic programs, institutional initiatives, and capital priorities
Lead development of the Board prospect pipeline in partnership with the President, SVP of Advancement and Innovation, Board Chair, and Nominating & Governance Committee
Manage Board recruitment, onboarding, and orientation to build early connection and momentum
Strengthen long-term Board sustainability through meaningful engagement and recognition
Oversee the planning and execution of Board and key committee meetings, including agendas, materials, presentations, scheduling, and logistics, in collaboration with Senior Leadership and cross-department colleagues
Analyze and report on Board engagement metrics, attendance, participation, and giving to identify opportunities for deeper involvement, and guide future cultivation and recruitment efforts
Attend Board and committee meetings, take notes as needed, and work with General Counsel & Corporate Secretary onaccurateandtimelymeeting records
Support governance processes and compliance, including preparation and distribution of materials, and familiarity with bylaws and policies
Coordinate the flow of timely, relevant institutional updates from across Lincoln Center to Board members, tailoring communications to individual interests and engagement levels
Ensure Board activity is closely aligned with campaign strategy, major gifts, corporate engagement, and the executive office operations and outreach
Represent the organization at fundraising events, meetings, and other activities to build awareness and support for Lincoln Center