Overview:

The Director of Development will support the Modesto Children’s Museum’s (MoCHiMu) mission and vision by directing and managing fundraising and special event efforts to meet MoChiMu's short and long-term strategic goals. This individual should be an effective, forward-thinking fundraiser with excellent relationship-building skills, and an understanding and passion for hands-on, experiential learning. They will be responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive fundraising, events and stewardship plan. The Director will work as part of the leadership team and support full and part-time staff management in maintaining a strong culture that drives the organization to achieve excellence. The Director will play a critical role in ensuring that our MoChiMu is a sustainable and enduring learning institution for years to come. This individual should be passionate about philanthropy, non-profit community engagement, and creating exceptional guest experiences.

Qualifications:    

Education – A bachelor’s degree is required. Higher education or relevant business training is valued.

Experience – A minimum of five years of progressively responsible senior-level fundraising and development experience in a Children’s Museum or non-profit environment, and having start-up experience is strongly preferred. Proven experience with large-scale donors, strategic fundraising, event planning and grant writing is essential. 

Job Responsibilities:    

Essential Functions, Duties, and Responsibilities

Develop and oversee the implementation of the Annual Development Plan in consultation with the CEO, leadership team & board of directors.

Manage & grow a portfolio of donors and prospective major donors across the Central Valley by leading in cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.

Maintain current, accurate and organized documentation of all donor and event activities.

Develop and strengthen relationships with individuals, corporations, government agencies, and foundations.

Research, prepare and administer grants to meet current strategic & programmatic goals.

Work with the financial and education teams for timely grant proposals and grant report submissions.

Maintain a high standard of communication as the donor point of contact.

Oversee & implement all email solicitation and in-kind relationships for MoChiMu's activities per all regulations and policies.

Plan and implement special events for strategic initiatives related to donors, fundraising, and community awareness including but not limited to a donor gala, a donor thank you breakfast and a family fundraiser event.

Evaluate reports, track performance against development plans, and implement strategies accordingly.

Define, implement, and evaluate processes for efficiencies and best practices.

Ensure MoChiMu meets its desired diversity and inclusion outcomes in our fundraising initiatives and partnerships.

Provide excellent financial stewardship for all museum resources, address all fundraising compliance issues, and maintain the transparency necessary for a community-based non-profit.

Support the CEO in hiring and maintaining a strong, cohesive, and diverse team of internal staff with a positive and collaborative culture.

Maintain a high level of knowledge about museum exhibits, programs, and events to answer guest & donor questions and provide recommendations.

Contribute to the MoChiMu’s mission by understanding educational best practices and engaging with guests on the museum floor.

Be a positive MoChiMu representative and ensure the organization and its mission are consistently presented in strong, positive ways to the internal team, relevant stakeholders, and the public.

Comply with all the MoChiMu policies and procedures, including but not limited to workplace safety, reporting work-related injuries, Infection Control, and preventing potential safety risks for staff, patrons, and others.

Punctual and regular attendance is an essential responsibility of each employee at MoChiMu. Employees are expected to report to work as scheduled, on time, and prepared to start working. Employees also are expected to remain at work for their entire work schedule. Late arrival, early departure, or other absences from scheduled hours are disruptive and must be avoided.

Maintain a willingness to support MoChiMu and the team in other collaborative projects, museum needs, and roles outside the assigned job description.

Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.