Director of Development, Major Gifts

University of Texas at Austin

9d•$115,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Texas Science & Natural History Museum is developing new exhibits, programs, and experiences that spark curiosity, promote belonging, and tell stories about Texas science and natural history. Since reopening in September 2023, the reimagined institution blends its historic building and world-class collections with engaging, modern exhibits focused on science education. The museum has welcomed more than 200,000 visitors from all 50 states and 28 countries while supporting preK–12 education through field trips and outreach and presenting an active schedule of public programs. The museum continues to evolve as a vibrant educational and cultural hub with a strong path toward long-term sustainability. The purpose of this role is to serve as the Director of Development, Major Gifts, on the museum’s development team. The museum seeks a seasoned fundraising professional to identify and cultivate new donor prospects with a capacity of $100,000+. Reporting to the Director of Development, the position holds a critical role advancing Texas Science & Natural Museum’s strategic priorities through fundraising.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree and minimum of 5+ years experience in major gift fundraising
Proven success in developing and executing full-cycle donor strategies
Strong emotional intelligence, intellectual curiosity, and strategic thinking
Excellent communication skills (written, verbal, interpersonal).
Effective project management and problem-solving abilities, thrives under pressure
Collaborative and independent work style; able to engage across teams
Proficient in CRM platforms such as VIP, Salesforce, or similar applications
Willingness and ability to travel to engage with prospects and donors
Demonstrated discretion, integrity, and professionalism in all interactions
Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate

Nice To Haves

10+ years in major gift fundraising
Prior experience at UT or in a large, complex academic research university environment
Background in fundraising within a museum or educational organization
Graduate degree and/or Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) certification

Responsibilities

Build and carry an active portfolio of 40-60 well-qualified prospective donors with a capacity of $100,000+ and solicit gifts to support operations, capital projects, education programs, and endowments through pledged and planned monetary gifts.
Engage in strategy, identification, qualification, cultivation, relationship building, and closing of major gifts to support the museum’s priorities.
Participate in goal setting, proposal preparation, strategy development, and stewardship as required for donors in the managed portfolio and as requested.
Successfully and consistently deliver funding proposals with a focus on engaging new donors and building contributed revenue that is available within the fiscal year as well as building endowment funding.
Maintain an understanding of the museum’s priorities, vision, and mission.
Effectively work with, communicate with, and collaborate with leadership and other staff to develop funding opportunities to reach annual budgetary and long-term goals.
Work collaboratively, proactively, and in a professional, service-oriented manner with all departments and development staff to further goals and mission of the museum.
Utilize fundraising databases and prospecting tools.
Maintain appropriate electronic documentation on a timely basis, including engagement activities, proposal tracking, contact reports, donor strategies, and forecasting.
Work collaboratively and proactively with Texas Development and development colleagues within the College of Natural Sciences to align and advance the museum’s fundraising efforts.
Leverage relationships with development officers across the university to explore and/or strengthen fundraising opportunities for the museum.
Participate in professional development opportunities to create and nurture a culture of philanthropy within Texas Science & Natural History Museum and its constituencies.
Performs related duties as assigned.
May work on assigned projects.