Institutional Giving Officer

Description:
The New England Aquarium is poised for dramatic growth in reach and impact over the coming decade. We have completed a transformational renovation of our educational and engagement hub on Central Wharf in Boston, infusing our exhibits with insights from our global research and conservation programs. We inform and inspire millions of visitors through our exhibits and our public outreach.We are now better positioned than ever before to carry out our mission to be a catalyst for global change through public engagement, scientific research and advocacy for vital and vibrant oceans.

As we launch a new strategic plan to expand our global reach and impact, we are seeking an entrepreneurial and experienced fundraising professional to join us as the Institutional Giving Officer and create new opportunities to grow foundation and government support for NEAq’s mission.

The Officer is responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of a portfolio of foundation donors and prospects, with a focus on building multi-year, six-figure partnerships. The Officer will work closely with program leadership and the Director of Institutional Giving to create a robust foundation and government prospect pipeline, with a focus on foundations.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Fundraising/Portfolio Management

  • Create new opportunities to engage foundation prospects and grow existing partnerships.
  • Cultivate and solicit a portfolio of foundation donors, assuming primary responsibility for stewardship and retention.
  • Create opportunities for Aquarium staff and leadership to engage with foundations.
  • Secure invitations for multi-year proposals that advance strategic priorities and develop proposals for grants.
  • Write and edit persuasive requests for funding and other materials designed expressly for foundation audiences, as well as reports, supporting documents, and other updates to donors.
  • Partner with finance staff and program leadership to ensure that budgets align with proposal strategy and funder guidelines.
  • Plan and implement site visits and other cultivation activities designed for foundation prospects.
  • As needed to support Institutional Giving team goals and organizational priorities, work with VPs and Principal Investigators to develop proposals for funding from federal and state agencies. Assess opportunities for fit, provide input to make proposals more competitive, and ensure that all supporting documents meet guidelines.
  • Meet annual targets for donor and prospect visits, solicitations, and revenue.
  • Participate in exhibit and program planning to help align organizational strategies and funding opportunities.

Qualifications:

Minimum Training and Experience

  • Demonstrated success in securing funding from foundations on the local and national levels and developing proactive strategies to strengthen foundation relationships.
  • At least 5 years of progressively responsible fundraising experience in a complex organization.
  • Proven experience in the full spectrum of foundation fundraising including proposal and budget development, cultivation, solicitation, and donor stewardship.
  • Superior oral and written communication skills, including development of sophisticated proposals and presentations.
  • Bachelor’s Degree required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Strong strategic and analytic skills, demonstrated problem-solving ability.
  • Strong sense of ethical conduct, and demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and use sound judgement in all matters, including those relating to sensitive donor relations issues.
  • Strong commitment to collaboration and teamwork.
  • Committed to the mission and values of the Aquarium.
  • Ability to travel occasionally within the USA.
  • Knowledge of government grants a plus.
  • Knowledge of and experience with Blackbaud’s Raiser’s Edge preferred.

How To Apply:

For more information and to apply online please visit: http://neaq.applicantpro.com/jobs/

New England Aquarium is committed to diversity in the workplace and is an Equal Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC.

Apply by:
February 13, 2016