Associate Director for Advancement

Come join a team of dedicated staff at an exceptional time in Smithsonian history. With our new Secretary, Lonnie G. Bunch III, who was previously the founding director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture, we are positioned to realize our goal of being a truly 21st century museum complex. The Smithsonian is dedicated to its founding mission, “the increase and diffusion of knowledge” and as such we use our resources to encourage curiosity, ignite wonder and spark the joy of learning. Following the success of the Smithsonian's first comprehensive capital campaign, the largest ever undertaken by a cultural organization, the Smithsonian has built a model fundraising organization. This position offers exciting opportunities for the successful candidate to make a significant impact on the future of the Smithsonian. There is no better time to join this amazing Institution.

The Smithsonian's Archives of American Art (AAA) seeks an experienced and creative candidate to fill the role of Associate Director for Advancement. Working closely with the Director, senior staff, and members of the Board of Trustees, the Associate Director oversees all fundraising at the AAA, including foundation grants, major gifts, annual fund, and special events. The incumbent manages relationships with current and prospective donors, including identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors. Regular direct interaction with donors and potential donors nationwide is expected, and direct, independent solicitation of gifts from individuals and institutional donors is a central aspect of the position.

The Associate Director will develop and manage prospect activity for the portfolio of prospects ranging from major gifts to leadership or principal giving and on an annual and long-term basis for general operating support and programmatic initiatives thereafter. The incumbent will seek opportunities to expand the portfolio and increase giving from current donors, both individuals and foundations. The Associate Director is responsible for planning and oversight of AAA's annual benefit, a formal dinner for approximately 300 people with honorees and an awards program, including developing and implementing a plan to engage board members and other key stakeholders in soliciting support for this event. The Associate Director develops and manages other events that may be developed through the year.

The Associate Director will supervise three advancement staff whose primary duties are in external communications, grant and gift management, special events, and annual fund; and will, on occasion, supervise contractors. This position reports to the Director of the AAA.

Successful candidates will have a minimum of seven years of successful experience in fundraising with increasing level of responsibility. At least five years of experience in direct solicitation of major gifts, including principal or leadership gifts is preferred. Strong organizational, relationship, collaboration and communication skills as well as the ability to work independently are essential. A bachelor's degree is required; a master's degree is highly desirable. Travel is required and work during the evening and weekends may be necessary.

The Smithsonian Institution's Archives of American Art (AAA) stewards a collection of more than 30 million items and is the largest and most widely used resource on the history of American art in the world. Its mission is to collect, preserve, and make available for study primary records documenting this country's rich artistic legacy. Located in Washington, DC, the Archives also has a research center in New York City. To learn more about the Archives of American Art, visit our website at www.aaa.si.edu.

The Smithsonian Institution is a unique complex of 19 museums and galleries, the National Zoological Park, and nine research centers. The Smithsonian is a national and world treasure and is dedicated to its founding mission, “the increase and diffusion of knowledge.” Its exhibitions, programs, collections, and outreach touch the lives of millions of Americans every year, as well as many who visit us from abroad.

The Smithsonian offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package. To learn more about us visit www.si.edu. This is not a Federal Position but has similar requirements and benefits. Interested candidates should submit their resumes and cover letter to AAACareers@si.edu by December 27, 2020. Please include the position title in your e-mail subject line. Resumes should include a description of your paid and non-paid work experience that is related to this job; starting and ending dates of job (Month and year); and average number of hours worked per week.

The Smithsonian Institution is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

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