Position Title:

Vice President of Development and Outreach

Location:

New England Air Museum, Windsor Locks, CT

Reports To:

President and CEO

Job Type:

Full-Time, Exempt

About the New England Air Museum

The New England Air Museum (NEAM) is one of the largest aviation museums in the United States. It is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history of aviation, with a special focus on New England's contributions to the field. Our mission is to inspire future generations through the stories of innovation, courage, and perseverance that have shaped aviation and aerospace history.

Position Overview

The Vice President of Development and Outreach is a key member of the senior leadership team, responsible for leading the museum's fundraising, development, and outreach efforts. This role will oversee strategic initiatives to expand the museum’s donor base, enhance community engagement, and secure financial resources to support NEAM’s mission and growth. The ideal candidate will be a dynamic leader with a proven track record in development, exceptional communication skills, and a passion for aviation and education.

Key Responsibilities

Development Strategy: Develop and implement a comprehensive development plan that includes major gifts, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, annual giving, planned giving, and special events.
Fundraising Leadership: Lead all fundraising initiatives, including capital campaigns, to meet the museum's financial goals. Cultivate and maintain relationships with major donors, sponsors, and community partners.
Community Engagement: Strengthen NEAM’s presence in the community by developing and overseeing outreach programs, partnerships, and events that enhance the museum’s visibility and impact.
Board Relations: Work closely with the Board of Directors and the President and CEO to support fundraising activities, provide regular updates on development efforts, and engage board members in donor cultivation and solicitation.
Donor Relations: Ensure effective stewardship of donors through consistent communication, recognition programs, and personalized engagement strategies. Manage the museum’s donor database and oversee donor research, cultivation, and solicitation activities.
Marketing and Communications: Collaborate with the President & CEO, and staff to create compelling messaging and promotional materials that support fundraising campaigns and outreach initiatives.
Budget Management: Develop and manage the annual development budget, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and effective use of resources.
Grant Writing: Oversee the identification of grant opportunities, writing of proposals, and management of grant reporting to secure funding from foundations and government sources.
Event Planning: Plan and execute fundraising and outreach events, including the museum’s annual gala, special donor events, and community outreach programs.

Qualifications

Experience: Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in development, fundraising, or nonprofit management, with at least three years in a leadership role.
Proven Track Record: Demonstrated success in securing major gifts from donors, leading capital campaigns, and managing donor relations.
Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate staff, board members, and volunteers.
Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively articulate the museum’s mission and vision to diverse audiences.
Relationship Building: Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with donors, community leaders, politicians, corporate partners, and other stakeholders.
Strategic Thinking: Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to develop and implement long-term plans that align with organizational goals.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in donor management software and social media platforms. Knowledge of Veevart a plus.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary: Commensurate with experience.
Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plan, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

Application Process

To apply, please submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to Tianna Darling, Operations and Programs Manager, at tdarling@neam.org. Please include “VP of Development and Outreach Application” in the subject line of your email. Please include metrics that showcase fundraising success.

The New England Air Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

New England Air Museum

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