The USS Constitution Museum – a private, nonprofit, multi-award winning museum and Smithsonian affiliate – seeks a highly experienced development professional to lead and expand the fund development program for this beloved nonprofit with a four-star rating from Charity Navigator. The new Chief Development Officer (CDO) will join the museum at an exciting and pivotal time, to help champion a campaign to build a state-of-the-art museum as part of a multi-million-dollar redevelopment project in the Charlestown Navy Yard. Partnering with the President and Board, and leading the efforts of the development team, the CDO will serve as the face of the museum in generating philanthropic funds that preserve the history and legacy of one of the nation’s foremost historic icons.
Established 40 years ago, the USS Constitution Museum serves as the “voice” of USS Constitution, a wooden ship so sturdy and strong it earned the name “Old Ironsides.” The ship herself is situated next door to the museum along Boston’s waterfront and Freedom Trail. It is the world’s oldest commissioned warship, defending sea lanes against global threats from 1797-1855; to this day, “America’s Ship of State” is commanded by a naval officer leading a crew of active duty sailors.
Welcoming nearly a half-million visitors a year, the USS Constitution Museum offers an array of exhibits and demonstrations that transport visitors back in time to experience life on the ship and in Boston during the 18th-19th centuries. The museum’s robust education program serves thousands of school children each year and offers an award-winning online curriculum used by teachers across the country. A landmark initiative, “All Aboard!,” provides student-centered STEM and history-based programs that integrate ship and museum hands-on and immersive experiences.
The museum also houses a comprehensive collection of resources related to the ship including a 2,000-volume library, manuscript collection, and artifacts such as muskets and swords, journals and paintings, uniforms and clothing, and medical and navigational instruments. It has garnered numerous awards for exhibits and education, including from the American Alliance of Museums and Parents Choice Foundation. In 2004 the museum was honored at the White House with one of six National Awards for Museum and Library Service.
Position Summary:
Reporting to the museum President, the CDO will develop a strategic fundraising plan that includes leading and launching a capital campaign in support of the museum’s relocation in the Navy Yard with enhancements to exhibits and programs; a “best-practice” major gifts program; and ways to leverage and build on current individual, corporate/foundation, and planned giving efforts, as well as special events.
Qualifications:
Requirements include: Bachelor’s degree, 7+ years’ progressively responsible development leadership experience; solid track record in major and planned giving, and building and managing a prospect portfolio; knowledge of corporate/foundation relations; experience with campaigns; exceptional communications, relationship-building, and presentation skills; and passion for the museum’s mission.
To express interest or obtain more information, please contact:
Nicole Gakidis at ngakidis@eesrecruit.com or Mary Ann Botelho at mabotelho@eesrecruit.com
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