Development Director [GulfQuest / National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico]

• Develop and implement fundraising strategies to maximize contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations including, but not limited to, the following categories: major gifts, annual fund, grant proposals and awards, corporate sponsorships, memberships and fundraising events.

• Ensure stewardship of past, current and prospective donors through personal visits, articulate correspondence, timely gift acknowledgments, and administration of naming opportunities.

• Research donor prospects (individuals, corporations and foundations) and find ways to engage prospective donors in short and long term partnerships with the museum.

• Prepare and submit grant proposals to foundations, corporations, government agencies and other funding sources; maintain accurate and timely reporting on grants to funding organizations.

• Ensure appropriate and professional materials and reports to support fundraising efforts.

• Supervise the development and maintenance of the donor database (Donor Perfect). Set policies and procedures for retention of data and reporting and maintenance of security/quality controls.

• Oversee the planning and implementation of the museum’s membership program to solicit new members, retain existing members, and increase the museum’s membership base.

• Prepare and maintain financial, donation and various other reports as needed.

• Plan, direct and attend member events and donor receptions.

• Work responsibly with the confidential nature of donor information.

• Other duties and development activities as assigned by the Executive Director.

• Bachelor’s degree in Non-Profit Management, Marketing, Communications, Business or related field; Master’s degree preferred

• 5+ years work experience in development/fundraising and/or business development/management

• Professional commitment to remain current with best practices and relevant trends in fundraising

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including presentation and public speaking skills

• Donor database experience; Donor Perfect experience preferred

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

• Ability to maintain confidential status of financial and donor information

• Superior organizational, time management and interpersonal skills

• Ability to work in a collaborative, fast-paced work environment

• Self-motivated, proactive approach to problem-solving

• Occasional evening/weekend hours required