Executive Director of Museum Development

Executive Director of Museum Development

Job summary:

Colby College (Waterville, Maine) and the Colby College Museum of Art seek an experienced, strategic, and inspirational Executive Director of Museum Development. The role will lead the planning and strategic execution of fundraising efforts that support current programming, near‑term plans for a transformational capital project, and significantly expanded programming. The Executive Director will be responsible for all aspects of fundraising and donor engagement for the museum, including campaign oversight, major and principal gift cultivation, and high‑level fundraising initiatives.

• Lead the planning and execution of fundraising strategies to support current programming and future capital projects.
• Oversee the museum’s comprehensive advancement program, including campaign development and implementation.
• Build and sustain relationships with major donors, cultivators, and philanthropists.
• Implement donor engagement strategies and stewardship plans, ensuring alignment with the museum’s mission and goals.
• Collaborate with museum leadership, staff, and the Board of Governors to identify and prioritize fundraising priorities.

• Minimum of 10 years of experience envisioning, shaping, and implementing a successful philanthropic program.
• Demonstrated success in cultivating major and principal gifts, and leading high‑level fundraising initiatives.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, with a record of managing comprehensive advancement programs of similar scope and complexity.
• Familiarity with art and art communities, including experience with museum or cultural institutions, is preferred.
• Commitment to Colby’s values of honesty, integrity, and personal responsibility.

All applications, nominations, and inquiries must be submitted through Wittkieffer. Submit a CV or resume and a letter of interest addressing the themes in the leadership profile found at  Direct questions, nominations, and inquiries to Mercedes Chacón Vance and Jevon Walton at Col

Colby is an equal opportunity employer and operates in accordance with federal and state laws regarding non‑discrimination. Colby complies with Title IX and encourages inquiries from candidates who will contribute to the diversity of its campus community.