Manager of Individual Philanthropy

Whitney Museum of American Art•New York, NY

11d•$80,000 - $85,000

About The Position

The Manager of Individual Philanthropy advances the Whitney’s Individual Philanthropy program by cultivating and stewarding current and prospective donors and supporting annual and multi-year fundraising goals, including efforts to grow and diversify the Museum’s donor base. Working with the Director of Individual Philanthropy and colleagues across Advancement, the Manager identifies opportunities to deepen donor engagement and increase philanthropic support. The Manager oversees Studio Forum, including its programming, member engagement, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. The role also manages an assigned portfolio of donors and prospects and supports fundraising initiatives, donor meeting preparation, and follow-up. In addition, the Manager helps plan and deliver Patron Programs events, programs, and travel opportunities in collaboration with colleagues throughout the Museum. The position supports fundraising priorities connected to the Museum’s 2026 strategic plan, including free admission, exhibition excellence, access, and education. It includes occasional travel and evening and weekend commitments as needed.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree.
At least 5 years’ experience in nonprofit advancement, individual giving, or related fundraising work.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
Ability to manage multiple priorities, coordinate projects, and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships with donors and colleagues at all levels.
Data-driven approach and comfort using Raiser’s Edge or related fundraising software.
Commitment to the value of arts in society.
Ability to work nights and weekends and travel as needed.
Strong understanding of individual philanthropy, donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
Excellent judgment, discretion, and professionalism when working with high-level donors and confidential information.
Ability to collaborate effectively with Curatorial, Advancement, and other Museum departments.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.
Knowledge of the New York philanthropic community and cultural fundraising landscape.
Strong passion for contemporary art and familiarity with the art and cultural world.

Responsibilities

Oversee the strategic direction, programming, and management of Studio Forum, developing annual plans to strengthen engagement, retention, and philanthropic support.
Manage Studio Forum membership cultivation, solicitation, renewals, and stewardship; identify prospective members and opportunities to deepen existing relationships and encourage giving beyond annual dues.
Develop and execute Studio Forum programming in collaboration with Curatorial, Education, Programs, Special Events, and other Museum colleagues.
Manage an assigned portfolio of individual donors and prospects, creating tailored cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies to support annual fundraising goals and increased or multi-year giving.
Generate support for items in the Museum’s 2026 strategic plan, including free admission, exhibition excellence, access, and education.
Identify and qualify prospective donors using research, giving history, and engagement data.
Support the Director of Individual Philanthropy and frontline fundraising team by preparing proposals, solicitation materials, presentations, and individualized stewardship communications.
Prepare for donor and prospect meetings with the Director of Individual Philanthropy, including briefing materials and agendas, and track next steps and follow-up.
Support the planning and execution of Patron Program events, cultivation opportunities, and donor travel.
Lend support to Artist’s Council, Chairman’s Council, Director’s Council Education Committee, and National Committee.
Build and maintain relationships with donors, prospects, Trustees, and other Museum stakeholders, representing the Whitney at openings, donor events, and programs as appropriate.
Collaborate across Advancement and the Museum to identify donor engagement opportunities, coordinate fundraising, and ensure effective communication and follow-through.
Contribute to Individual Philanthropy team planning, shared fundraising goals, and a cohesive donor experience.
Develop and edit donor-facing materials, including invitations, renewal letters, acknowledgments, proposals, and stewardship communications.
Work with Advancement Operations and Prospect Research to maintain accurate donor records, track activity, and support portfolio management.
Maintain timely and accurate records in Raiser’s Edge, including donor interactions, solicitation activity, and next steps.
Plan, execute, and attend Whitney donor events and programs, including occasional travel and evening or weekend commitments as needed.
Undertake other duties and special projects as assigned.