development coordinator – research and stewardship

The Royal New Zealand Ballet

• Join a leading, national arts organisation

• Supportive, dynamic environment with opportunity to learn & grow

• A genuine opportunity to influence our organisation with your ideas

Unique chance to join our fast-paced development team and make a genuine impact on Aotearoa New Zealand's cultural community.

The Royal New Zealand Ballet is a company of dynamic dancers from diverse backgrounds and presents a repertoire of classic and contemporary works across Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally.

We're currently on the search for a full time Development Coordinator – research and stewardship, based in either Auckland or Wellington CBD, reporting into the Director of Development and External Affairs.

In this role, you will support the development team, especially the Director of Development and External Affairs through delivery of development activity and income, focusing on data-driven cultivation approaches, research to identify new potential donors, funders and sponsors, stewardship of lower-level donations and administrative support.

You may travel occasionally in line with the RNZB's regular touring programme.

Day to day you'll be responsible for:

• Working with the RNZB's Ticketing and Data Coordinator, you will develop and implement a structured approach to donor cultivation. You will identify potential donors, at all levels, from within the RNZB's current subscribers and regular ticket buyers and help to devise targeted cultivation opportunities.

• Use publicly available research tools such as the Companies Register, including share holdings and directorships, and the Charities Register, to build up a knowledge base of prospective funders and donors, enriching the information that is already held by the RNZB and helping to inform prospecting and cultivation.

• Stewardship and Philanthropy Administration: You will assist the Philanthropy Manager and Development Coordinator – Communications and Events with the administration and development of the RNZB's membership and supporter programmes, including the Friends of the RNZB, the Dress Circle, the Haythorne Circle, Partner a Dancer supporters, alumni, general donors. This includes donor stewardship and management of all aspects of donor records, interactions, processing and receipting via the Tessitura database. You will also update development-related content on

• RNZB Foundation: You will assist the Philanthropy Manager with the administration of the RNZB Foundation and their supporter programme, the En Pointe Patrons. This will include event management, board meeting preparation and minute taking, maintenance of their website and ticketing support.

• Assist the Corporate Development Manager in preparing grant applications and reports as required, as well as researching potential funders and ensuring that the RNZB is on top of current funders' granting criteria and capabilities.

• Support the Philanthropy Manager in planning and executing the RNZB's Annual Appeal, including system set-up for online giving, data selection and segmentation and reporting.

• Assist the Philanthropy Manager with the administration of the RNZB Foundation and their supporter programmes and events.

Who and what are we looking for?

• A tertiary or vocational qualification in a relevant discipline

• Experience or interest in professional fundraising, including research and/or data-driven approaches

• Experience in a similar working environment, using CRM systems for record keeping, list management and financial processing, preferably Tessitura or a similar system such as e-Tapestry or Raiser's Edge.

• Excellent written and oral presentation skills, including an understanding of appropriate register and tone, formal and informal communication.

• Exceptional interpersonal skills, able to manage relationships strategically and tactfully, building trust with donors and funders, artists, senior management and Board.

• Exceptional organisational skills, able to manage and prioritise a diverse range of projects throughout the year.

• Comfortable learning and supporting others in the use of a range of software applications.

• A strong interest in ballet and/or the performing arts.

What we offer

• Ticket perks to our performances

• Flexible working environment

• Discounted gym membership

• Investment in your personal career development and training

• Being part of a globally recognised arts organisation, making a significant impact on Aotearoa New Zealand's cultural community.

• Occasional opportunity to travel within New Zealand

Come and join us: To find out more and apply, please visit

Applications close 4 December 2025