Associate Director of Development
The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, (AMFA), located in Little Rock, AR, seeks a senior fundraising professional to advance the institution during a transformative era.
In 2023, the Museum reopened following a four-year renovation that expanded the building and grounds. Designed by the renowned architecture firm, Studio Gang, the facility includes landscaped grounds, by the firm SCAPE, and secures the AMFA’s position as one of the top cultural institutions in the region. The building includes state-of-the-art galleries, an Art School, restaurant, Museum Store, theater, lecture hall, and other programming and event spaces.
AMFA is an active partner in the educational, economic, and cultural life of a diverse community, inviting discovery, creativity and learning through engagement with the visual and performing arts.
The Associate Director of Development is a key strategic position responsible for advancing the fundraising program, which supports AMFA’s operations. The Associate Director of Development will drive innovative and effective strategies to establish new and strengthen existing relationships with individuals, corporations, and foundations.
Reporting to the Deputy Director of Advancement and Strategy, the Associate Director of Development will work closely with the Executive Director, Board Members, Department Directors, and other stakeholders.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities:
- Builds on the strengths of the existing capital campaign and annual fundraising program; develops an expanded strategy to support annual goals and the endowment.
- Works closely with the Executive Director, Deputy Director of Advancement and Strategy, and leadership to identify, cultivate, and solicit new and increased gifts
- Deepens relationships with current donors while launching initiatives to identify and target avenues for future financial contributions.
- Supports all development efforts with a portfolio that includes annual giving, major gifts, and sponsors.
- Reinforces a culture of philanthropy among all stakeholders; guides and supports staff who are engaged with fundraising by fostering teamwork, camaraderie, and accountability.
- Ensures donor data is collected and leveraged to drive outreach and maximize total revenue.
- Reports regularly on outcomes, efforts, and progress toward fundraising goals.
- Assists with the development and execution of event fundraisers, including gala/benefits.
- Other related duties, as needed.
Candidate Profile:
- Bachelor’s degree, or higher, required; CFRE certification preferred (or is eligible to take CFRE exam)
- Substantial, continuous fundraising experience (at least 5 years)
- Direct experience securing significant operational, program, and major gift support
- Self-motivated with superior organizational and interpersonal skills
- Proven success with face-to-face solicitation of donors
- Success with building long-term organizational capacity through metrics-driven, donor-centered fundraising
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, and a strong public speaker, who can translate AMFA’s mission and programs into fundraising initiatives that garner financial support
- Experience with customer relationship management software, donor research, and donor segmentation
- A mission-driven individual who values diversity, equity, and inclusion, and has strong affinity for artistic endeavors and artists