Director of Business Development

SUMMARY:

The Director of Business Development serves as a key member of the Museum’s leadership team and is responsible for developing, leading, and executing comprehensive revenue generation strategies that advance the Museum’s mission, long-term sustainability, and institutional growth.

This position oversees the cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of corporate partners, major donors, sponsors while identifying new business development opportunities that strengthen the Museum’s financial position and community impact.

Working closely with executive leadership, the Director of Business Development will build and manage a robust fundraising pipeline, develop high-value partnerships, drive contributed revenue growth, and position the Museum as a premier destination for philanthropic investment and strategic collaboration.

Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Communications, Marketing, or a related field required; advanced degree preferred. Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in business development, fundraising, advancement, or external relations, with demonstrated success in revenue generation. Proven experience securing and managing corporate partnerships, sponsor ships and major gifts. Experience working within nonprofit organizations strongly preferred, with museum, science center, education, or cultural institution experience highly desirable.

Demonstrated track record of successfully meeting or exceeding annual fundraising and revenue goals. Exceptional relationship-building skills with the ability to engage and influence high-net-worth individuals, corporate executives, board members, and community stakeholders. Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing proposals, sponsorship packages, donor communications, presentations, and executive-level reports. Strong strategic thinking and ability to identify, cultivate, and close new business opportunities aligned with organizational priorities.

Excellent organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency in donor database management systems, CRM platforms, fundraising technology, and Microsoft Office Suite. Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across departments and with senior leadership. Flexible schedule to work evenings and weekends as needed for donor cultivation, community engagement, and special events.

• Develop and execute comprehensive business development and fundraising strategies designed to increase contributed revenue and support institutional growth objectives.
• Establish annual revenue targets across key fundraising channels, including corporate partnerships, sponsor ships and major gifts.
• Monitor fundraising performance metrics and regularly report progress, forecasting, and opportunities to executive leadership.
• Partner with the Deputy Director and senior leadership team to align fundraising initiatives with museum programming, exhibitions, educational initiatives, and long term strategic priorities.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors, corporate partners and sponsors.
• Lead donor engagement efforts including meetings, presentations, private tours, special events, and personalized stewardship strategies.
• Prepare compelling and customized sponsorship proposals, donor presentations, gift agreements, and partnership materials designed to secure transformational support.
• Build long-term relationships that increase donor retention, deepen engagement, and create opportunities for expanded philanthropic investment.

• Maintai…