The Development Manager of the senior administrative team of Delaware Contemporary Museum reporting to the Executive Director and will be responsible for the planning, execution, and evaluation of fundraising and development initiatives for the museum in conjunction with the Executive Director, Chair of the Board Development Committee, and Board of Directors. The Development Manager establishes fundraising priorities and objectives; creates fundraising strategies to meet specific program goals; identifies and profiles current and prospective corporate, individual, and foundation prospects, and with the Executive Director, develops and cultivates positive relations with donors and prospects, and solicits and stewards major donors. The position is responsible for researching, writing, and reporting on all grant initiatives. An ability to exhibit a true commitment to and effectively communicate The Delaware Contemporary's goals, mission, history and vision for the future are important aspects of this position. The new Development Manager will collaborate with the outgoing Development Manager to transition and prioritize duties based on the candidate's abilities and strengths.
Qualified candidates should possess a minimum of a Bachelor's degree and 3-5 years development and grant writing experience (or equivalent work experience), excellent writing and computer skills (Microsoft Office Word, Access, Powerpoint and Excel), familiarity with Raiser's Edge (or similar CRM) and database management skills. Previous experience must demonstrate a proven track record in developing, planning, and implementing development initiatives; donor cultivation skills; securing new funding opportunities; comprehensive knowledge of research; and the ability to distinguish and identify funding opportunities for special programs. Familiarity and relationships with donors and foundations in the Greater-Wilmington area are preferred.
Position Responsibilities:
The functions and responsibilities listed below are those that represent the majority of time spent working in this job. Management may assign additional essential functions and responsibilities related to the type of work of the job as necessary.
- Conduct ongoing research, organize, and execute a comprehensive development plan for short and long-term fundraising initiatives.
- Responsible for all grant reporting
- Conduct the full range of activities required in the preparation of proposals and grant applications, and performance of responsible professional and administrative work in researching, identifying, developing and responding to government, foundation, and corporate grant opportunities in the areas of contemporary art, visual culture, creativity-based technology, education, and operational support.
- Work with the Executive Director, Chair of the Board Development Committee, and Board of Directors to identify, cultivate, and steward potential supporters of The Delaware Contemporary.
- Work directly with the Director of Special Events in the planning and development of all Delaware Contemporary related fundraising events.
- Coordinate the development department's marketing including organization of the copy of all fundraising literature and website content with the Marketing Department.
- Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of responsibility and requirements of the position.
- Some weekend and evening work is required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Excellent research and grant writing ability.
- Advanced computer skills including knowledge of fundraising software.
- Strong understanding of fundraising strategies and trends, and their impact on contemporary arts and education programs.
- Strong interpersonal skills.
- Ability to manage large projects and must be able to prioritize and delegate work as needed to appropriate staff from various departments.
- Must communicate effectively with all levels of management and staff.
- Maintain high standards of professional etiquette.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team of dedicated professionals.
- Ability to think creatively.
- Ability to multi-task.
To Apply:
The salary range is for this position $38K-43K. If you wish to explore this position, please send a resume, cover letter, and three references to Joseph J Gonzales, PhD, Executive Director, jgonzales@decontemporary.org.
