Position Title: Director of Development
Department: Development
Reports to: Executive Director
Salary: Salaried + benefits
Full Time/Part Time: Full Time 40 hrs per week, Exempt

Position Summary:

The Director of Development is responsible for leading and advancing the Cradle of Aviation Museum’s comprehensive fundraising strategy to support exhibitions, programs, capital projects, and long-term institutional sustainability. This role oversees all development efforts, including major gifts, grants, corporate sponsorships, special events, membership, and annual giving.

While building upon existing initiatives, the Director of Development will bring fresh perspective, creativity, and innovation to fundraising, guiding the museum into its next chapter. This includes identifying new revenue streams, reimagining donor engagement, and developing compelling cases for support that reflect the museum’s evolving vision and impact.

The Director of Development will work closely with the Executive Director and leadership team to cultivate and steward relationships with individual, corporate, foundation, and government funders. The position requires a strategic thinker and proactive leader who can inspire support, strengthen partnerships, and position the museum for continued growth and relevance.

Essential Functions:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive, forward-looking fundraising strategy aligned with the museum’s strategic goals and future vision.

• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors, corporate partners, foundations, and government funding sources.

• Lead innovative fundraising initiatives that introduce new and engaging methods of donor participation, including experiential events, strategic partnerships, and emerging philanthropic trends.

• Work closely with the Executive Director and Board to expand philanthropic networks and increase board engagement in fundraising.

• Oversee all development operations, including membership, annual appeals, major gifts, sponsorships, and fundraising events.

• Develop compelling proposals, case statements, and presentations to secure funding for exhibitions, programs, capital improvements, and long-term initiatives.

• Provide leadership in reimagining donor experiences and engagement strategies to reflect a dynamic and evolving museum environment.

• Utilize data and CRM systems (Blackbaud Altru) to track donor activity, analyze trends, and inform strategy

• Collaborate with internal departments to align fundraising priorities with programmatic and institutional needs.

• Represent the museum at events, meetings, and community activities to strengthen visibility and relationships.

• Develop and manage departmental budgets, goals, and performance metrics. Qualifications/Education:

• BA or equivalent, 5+ years' relevant experience. Membership & Sales experience preferred

• Proficient in Microsoft Office, including Word, Outlook, Excel, Publisher, and PowerPoint

• Proficient in Blackbaud or comparable CRM software a plus

• Excellent communicator for presentations, hosting donors and supporters, interpersonal skills, and strong writing skills for publication and grants

• Impeccable customer service skills -- tactful, diplomatic, and representing the museum in a friendly, professional manner

• Ability to organize narrative and financial data with meticulous attention to detail

• Ability to organize work effectively and manage competing priorities and multiple deadlines

• Self-starter and resourceful, driven and motivated to meet and exceed fundraising goals

• Ability to think creatively and strategically about fundraising in a changing cultural and economic environment

• Self-starter with a collaborative mindset and a passion for the museum’s mission.

Language Skills: 

English

Physical Demands/Work Environment: 

Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer, although some lifting and moving may be needed for setting up donors, fundraising happenings & membership events. Must be able to work occasional evenings and weekends, as museum events and representation dictate. Use of personal vehicle to visit prospects as well as attend events.

Email cover letter and resume to hr@cradleofaviation.org