Role purpose
The Head of Development leads the Development business unit, overseeing the development and execution of fundraising strategies to secure philanthropic support for the Museum. Reporting to the Deputy Director, Growth and Engagement, the Head of Development is responsible for providing strategic direction and driving a culture of philanthropy; cultivating, managing and retaining donor relationships; and securing major gifts and bequests to advance the Museum’s objectives. Additionally, the position plays a pivotal role in fostering engagement across the Museum to ensure strong connectivity with the Museum’s Strategic objectives, other key initiatives and development activities.
The key duties of the position include:
Lead the Development business unit, developing and executing fundraising strategies to secure major gifts, bequests, and other philanthropic support for the Museum’s strategic priorities and initiatives.
Deepening donor relationships, cultivating prospects, diversifying the portfolio of donors, designing compelling proposals, and securing philanthropic contributions to advance the Museum’s mission and objectives.
Identify and steward major donors, trusts, foundations, and bequest prospects, nurturing long-term relationships and ensuring effective stewardship and recognition.
Collaborate with the Museum’s executive and senior management team to identify funding priorities, develop fundraising initiatives, and align philanthropic support with strategic objectives.
Work with other business units within Growth and Engagement and the Museum more broadly to identify opportunities for cash sponsorship or value in-kind arrangements to supplement and support Museum operations.
Build the Development team, providing leadership, guidance, and mentorship to motivate a dynamic and professional team, and achieve fundraising targets.
Oversee the development and maintenance of accurate records of donor interactions, gifts, pledges, and bequests, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.
Monitor and evaluate fundraising activities, tracking progress against fundraising targets, and providing regular reports and updates to the Executive and other stakeholders.
Stay abreast of fundraising trends, best practices, and regulatory requirements, and leverage this knowledge to inform fundraising strategies and initiatives.
Skills, Experience and Qualifications
Essential:
Proven experience in senior leadership fundraising roles, demonstrating the ability to manage and develop a team effectively within a limited resource environment.
Extensive experience in managing donor and supporter relationships, with a track record of cultivating and stewarding major gifts from individual donors, trusts and foundations.
Strong strategic thinking and planning skills, with the ability to develop and execute fundraising strategies aligned with organisational objectives.
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and inspire donors, stakeholders and colleagues at all levels.
Demonstrated ability to achieve fundraising targets and motivate a dynamic and professional team to excel in their roles.
Sound understanding of philanthropic principles, fundraising techniques and ethical practices in donor relations.
A degree in a relevant field of study such as business, or the equivalent level of experience.
Desirable:
Experience in securing major gifts for capital campaigns and strategic projects in the cultural or nonprofit sector.
Previous experience in developing sponsorship agreements or partnerships with corporate entities and grant makers to support organisational operations and initiatives.
Knowledge of membership program management and experience in developing and implementing strategies to enhance member engagement and retention.
Eligibility
To be eligible to apply for this vacancy, applicants must:
- be an Australian citizen
- undergo a number of pre-employment checks, including a police record check
- hold or be eligible to hold a security clearance at the level specified in the position description.
The National Museum of Australia is an equal employment opportunity workplace. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and those from culturally diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply for roles at the Museum.
RecruitAbility applies to this vacancy. Under RecruitAbility you will be invited to participate in further assessment activity for the vacancy if you choose to apply under RecruitAbility; declare you have a disability; and meet the minimum requirements for the position.
The National Museum of Australia is committed to ensuring a child-safe and child-friendly environment. All employees are expected to demonstrate a commitment to, and support for, these principles, in theory and practice.
