Director of Development, Museum

The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (AMFA), located in Little Rock, AR, seeks a senior fundraising professional to advance the institution during an extraordinary transformation that includes the construction of a new state-of-the-art building, scheduled to open in 2022. Designed by the renowned architecture firm, Studio Gang, the new facility will secure the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts’ position as one of the top cultural institutions in the state and region. The new AMFA will feature state-of-the-art galleries, Art School, theater, lecture hall, outdoor event area, and other spaces to host programming, classes, and performances. The innovative Cultural Living Room, restaurant, store, and landscaped grounds will position the AMFA as a cultural hub for Little Rock and the region.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Development is a key strategic position responsible for advancing a comprehensive AMFA fundraising program. The Director of Development will proactively interface with donors, Board members, department directors, and other stakeholders to promote a culture of philanthropy and effectively articulate the mission and impact of the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts across the state.

Primary Duties and responsibilities: 

• Create and execute strategic fundraising plans and expand donor prospects for:
  • Individual giving, including major gifts and annual fund donations
  • Corporate sponsorships, foundation and government grants
  • Fundraising galas and other special events and initiatives
• Work with department directors across exhibitions, education, marketing, performing arts and membership to develop a robust understanding of institutional priorities and how to effectively connect supporters to funding needs for programs and operations.
• With the Executive Director, build on the overwhelming success the AMFA Capital Campaign and pursue new opportunities to increase endowment funding
• With Executive Director, AMFA Board, and AMFA Foundation Board to identify and engage prospective donors while developing new strategies to deepen relationships with current donors and supporters.
• With Executive Director, develop vibrant and engaging special events for the Grand Opening of the new AMFA that will contribute to effective and ongoing donor stewardship efforts.
• Create compelling and strategic cultivation, solicitation and stewardship plans for both annual fund donors and capital campaign donors.
• Lead, inspire and grow a team of five full-time development staff members by fostering teamwork and a collaborative culture.
• Develop strategies to ensure accurate gathering and input of donor data and utilize analytics to inform effective fundraising efforts.
• Other related duties, as needed.

CANDIDATE PROFILE:

The successful candidate is a proven fundraiser with direct experience in securing significant support from major donors, individuals, corporations, foundations, and government agencies.

Must have substantial fundraising knowledge with seven years minimum experience, preferably in a museum, nonprofit, or cultural organization, in addition to:

• Superior strategic, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Proven success in developing and executing clear and effective fundraising plans
• First-hand experience working with trustees and key donors, and cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors
• A proven track record in building long-term organizational capacity
• Strong management skills, both strategic and operational
• A demonstrated ability to build, manage, motivate, and inspire staff
• Exceptional written, verbal and presentation skills
• A commitment to AMFA’s mission and diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Self-motivated with a high energy level and record of success