Advancement Specialist IS 1001-11

Smithsonian Institution•Washington, DC

8d•$85,447 - $111,087•Onsite

About The Position

The Smithsonian Institution’s National Postal Museum (NPM) brings the story of communication and the postal system to life across 23,000 square feet of dynamic exhibition space, complemented by a research library, Postal Store and Philatelic Center, and museum shop. Home to nearly 6 million objects—ranging from miniature stamps to full-scale vehicles—the museum offers a fascinating look at how mail has connected people and shaped the world. Welcoming more than 400,000 visitors each year, NPM is the Smithsonian’s most-visited museum off the National Mall. Through innovative exhibitions, cutting-edge research, and engaging educational and public programs, the museum transforms the history of mail and philately into an accessible, relevant, and inspiring experience for diverse audiences. This position sits within the Advancement Department and reports directly to the Director of Advancement. The department is a driving force behind NPM’s success, building meaningful relationships with donors and external partners to expand the museum’s impact. It also cultivates and stewards relationships with the Museum Advisory Council and the Council of Philatelists, whose leadership and advocacy are critical to the museum’s continued growth and impact.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) from an accredited four-year college or university and/or 3-5 years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Knowledge of fundraising strategies, principles, and techniques needed for promoting the organization’s programs and developing prospects into donors.
Skill in gathering, evaluating, and interpreting complex fundraising data.
Ability to research prospects to match their interests with the organizational programs and determine the appropriateness of internal information according to donors’ preference.
Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with people having different interests.
Strong ability to communicate in writing to edit, proofread, and prepare various written materials.
Education completed outside the United States must be deemed equivalent to higher education programs of U.S. Institutions by an organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials.
Resumes should include a description of your paid and non-paid work experience that is related to this job; starting and ending dates of job (month and year); and average number of hours worked per week.

Responsibilities

Assists with the stewardship of donors in maintaining continuous engagement, helps plan and execute the annual appeal, and acknowledges gifts from donors.
Helps steward the Councils, including planning meetings and maintaining communications.
Prepares reports and materials needed for donor engagement, solicitation, and stewardship in consultation with the supervisor to determine the best possible approach.
Plans, manages, and executes special events, including the gala, and/or educational programs for donors such as symposia, tours, receptions, and other cultivation events.
Assists front-line staff with managing their portfolios, pipeline reviews, and prospect strategy sessions. Identifies and engages constituents with both larger gift potential and an interest in the Smithsonian.
Maintains, enters, and ensures that information in the advancement database is verified and updated regularly.
Manages, prepares, and tracks approval of gift agreements, memoranda of understanding, and other gift related documentation.