Job Description

Position Summary:

The Institutional Advancement Officer will be a dynamic "cheerleader" and "salesperson" for the Museum, responsible for enhancing fundraising efforts, strengthening community engagement, and developing creative ways to promote the Museum’s mission. This role requires an energetic, outgoing professional who can sell the Museum’s value to donors, sponsors, and the broader community while finding innovative ways to expand its audience.

Reporting directly to the Executive Director, this position will work collaboratively across departments, to reinforce sponsorships, cultivate donors, and drive new engagement strategies.

The ideal candidate is a natural networker, an enthusiastic advocate, and a strategic thinker with a background in fundraising, corporate sponsorships, and community engagement.

Essential Functions:

Fundraising & Sponsorship Development

• Act as a passionate ambassador for the Museum, developing compelling ways to "sell" its mission, programs, and impact to donors, corporate sponsors, and community leaders.
• Supplement and support the Museum’s existing fundraising efforts , focusing on securing new sponsorships, major gifts, and donor relationships.
• Identify and cultivate new corporate partnerships, foundation grants, and individual giving opportunities .
• Develop and implement creative donor engagement strategies to increase retention and long-term support.
• Assist in planning and executing fundraising events, donor appreciation initiatives, and sponsorship recognition programs .

Community Engagement & Audience Growth

• Strengthen the Museum’s community presence by building relationships with local businesses, civic organizations, and educational institutions.
• Develop and lead initiatives to broaden audience demographics and attract new visitors through innovative programming and outreach.
• Serve as a public ambassador and spokesperson for the Museum, attending networking events, fostering partnerships, and increasing public awareness.

Strategic Initiatives & Collaboration

• Work closely with the Director of Marketing & Communications to create cohesive campaigns, sponsorship materials, and promotional strategies that position the Museum as a must-visit destination.
• Partner with Museum departments (Education, Exhibits, Visitor Services) to align outreach efforts with institutional goals.
• Identify and implement new, creative fundraising ideas that align with the Museum’s mission and long-term sustainability.

Qualifications & Skills

• 3+ years of experience in fundraising, development, corporate relations, sales, or nonprofit advancement.
• A natural salesperson with a talent for networking, relationship-building, and persuasive communication a must.
• Proven ability to sell ideas, secure sponsorships, and increase donor engagement.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience crafting compelling donor proposals, sponsorship pitches, and promotional materials.
• Energetic, outgoing, and enthusiastic personality—able to inspire excitement and support for the Museum’s mission.
• Creative thinker with a passion for developing new programs and expanding audience reach.
• Knowledge of fundraising software and CRM platforms (such as Blackbaud, Raiser’s Edge, Salesforce, or similar) is a plus.
• Familiarity with aviation, space, STEM education, or cultural institutions is a bonus but not required.

Language Skills:

• English

Physical Demands/Work Environment:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Some lifting and moving may be needed for setting up donor, fundraising, and community events.
• Must be able to work occasional evenings and weekends as museum events and representation dictate.
• Use of a personal vehicle to visit prospects and attend events.

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