Development Director

Position

MSJE is seeking an energetic fundraiser to become director of development. This person will be responsible for nurturing and growing relationships with current and potential funders of the museum. He or she will guide philanthropic strategy and vision to the long-term financial stability of the museum and its mission, becoming a vital member of the museum’s small staff.

This position is expected to lead a significant expansion of MSJE’s contributed revenue, growing annual fundraising from its current level to a sustainable range of $2 million to $3 million per year within two to three years. This will be done through a combination of major gifts, board-enabled philanthropy, foundations, corporate support, and membership growth.

The director of development reports to the executive director and supervises a membership & grants manager. He or she will work closely with the board of directors, the board’s development committee, and MSJE’s donor base.

Initial priorities will include assessment of the current donor base, development systems, and board engagement practices, followed by the implementation of a multi-year growth plan.

Responsibilities

Designing and executing a comprehensive development program that includes annual giving, major gifts, foundation and corporate support, planned giving, and campaign-level initiatives.
Managing a portfolio of existing major-gift-level individual, corporate, and foundation donors and pro Researching and identifying prospects for new potential sources of funding.
Cultivating, soliciting, and closing major gifts through relationship building and effective donor and prospect managemen
Partnering with board members and a development committee to establish clear fundraising expectations, support board member solicitation activity, and strengthen a culture of philanthropy across board l
Improving a donor stewardship and recognition program for major donors to the museum.
Leading donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship activity in New Orleans and select cities across the south and nationally, as appropriate.
Coordinating and participating in fundraising meetings and events in strategically selected citie
Performing other duties as assigned to meet the needs of MSJE’s fundraising efforts.

Preferred Experience
Deep understanding of and commitment to the mission of MSJE, with the ability to articulate its case for support.
Experience is soliciting major gifts (6-figure level and above) from individuals, as well as experience in fundraising from corporate sponsors and family foundations.
Experience in prospect research, relationship building, prospect portfolio management, and solicitation of prospects for a nonprofit.
Experience and success in developing and executing fundraising campaigns.
Basic understanding of donor and prospect record management system
Ability and willingness to travel to meet prospects and donors around the U.S.
Commitment to maintaining strict confidentiality with access to sensitive private information.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree is required, graduate degree preferre
Five or more years of progressively responsible experience in nonprofit fundraisin Applicants with relevant experiences in for-profit enterprises will also be considered.