Director of Development [Santa Barbara Historical Museum, Santa Barbara, CA]

Director of Development

Position Description

The Santa Barbara Historical Museum is the premier repository, interpreter and communicator of the rich history in the region. We connect the diverse population to historically important ideas, people and objects through exhibitions, scholarship, educational programs and preservation of material culture. We are entrusted with several historic structures, the main museum on De la Guerra and a collection of more than 15,000 objects representing pre-Columbian, Spanish, Mexican, and American eras. The Gledhill Library and Research Center is a major non-lending research library, which serves over 5,000 patrons annually.

Currently, we seek a new member for our professional staff to provide leadership and direction for all aspects of our development effort, including: identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of donors to meet budgeted revenue goals. The Museum seeks an experienced development professional who is a self-motivated, strategic thinker with strong interpersonal skills. The desired candidate will be skilled in maintaining donor and volunteer relationships.

The Director of Development works with the Board of Trustees and directly for the Executive Director, as part of the senior staff along with six other professionals. The annual operating budget for the current fiscal year is $1.2 million, with one-third projected to be from site rentals. The Director of Development will work with other senior staff to secure the balance from membership, contributed income, grants, exhibitions, direct appeals, and events.

Principal Responsibilities:

• Execute and continue to develop the Santa Barbara Historical Museum’s annual fundraising plan.
• Develop, cultivate and maintain relationships with current and prospective donors.
• Secure financial support from individuals, foundations, corporations and government sources.
• Manage the Donor Perfect database and oversee data entry staff and gift processing.
• Oversee the fundraising event staff to ensure the largest impact possible from the activities.
• Work with Marketing Director to secure sponsors of exhibits, lectures and events.
• Connect the Executive Director and key volunteer leaders to major donor prospects.
• Create and execute a strategy for a large sustained base of annual individual donors.
• Develop and track proposals and reports for all foundation and corporate fundraising.
• Maintain and grow the Legacy Society.
• Supervise staff and provide leadership.
• Collaborate with the Board of Trustees and its Development Committee toward achieving fundraising goals.

Candidates with museum experience preferred. Five or more years of progressive and successful development experience and a BA/BS is required; MA and/or CFRE is preferred. Salary and benefits commensurate with expertise.

Candidates looking for a challenging, positive position where you can make a difference, please email your resume todevelopmentsearch@sbhistorical.org by August 31, 2015. No phone calls or inquires please.