Senior Development Officer

Art and Wellness Enterprises • Bentonville, AR

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Development Officer plays a pivotal role on the Development team, helping to advance the mission of both Crystal Bridges and the Momentary through strategic and proactive major gift fundraising from individuals and corporations. As a key member of a collaborative and donor-centered team, the Senior Development Officer is responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding philanthropic support. This role is well-suited for a seasoned and driven professional who can serve as a leader among peers—modeling best practices in donor engagement and contributing meaningfully to a culture of high performance and accountability. The Senior Development Officer will be expected to manage a portfolio of major gift prospects, actively lead donor strategy, and help shape the museum’s fundraising approach through meaningful collaboration, mentorship, and initiative. The ideal candidate is an entrepreneurial self-starter with a track record of securing significant gifts, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to inspire confidence in donors and colleagues alike. A successful candidate demonstrates agility, sound judgment, and professionalism while thriving in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. This individual must be capable of effectively articulating the museum’s mission, vision, and impact—and serving as an ambassador and thought partner in building a strong philanthropic culture.

Requirements

• At least three years of progressive experience in nonprofit fundraising, with a demonstrated ability to cultivate, solicit, and close gifts—or equivalent transferable experience in relationship-based sales or business development
• Strong working knowledge of CRM platforms (e.g. Tessitura, Raiser’s Edge, DonorPerfect) and comfort using data to inform strategy
• Ability to write clearly, concisely, and persuasively; attention to detail and organizational prowess
• Strong alignment with the museum’s mission and willingness to be a passionate advocate for its work
• Ability and willingness to travel for donor meetings and events, and to work occasional evenings and weekends

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated success securing major gifts from individuals and corporate partners
• Proficiency with Tessitura or other donor databases
• Experience in arts and culture, higher education, or complex nonprofit environments

Responsibilities

• Build and manage a dynamic portfolio of 75-100 qualified donor and sponsor prospects, focusing on individuals and corporations capable of giving at the $15,000+ level, and engage them through at least 20 substantive face-to-face or virtual interactions and a minimum of 10 solicitations per month, working toward an annual fundraising goal of $500,000-$750,000.
• Lead all phases of the donor lifecycle, including cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship, aligning strategies with institutional priorities.
• Document all interactions, meeting notes, and updated plans in the CRM within 48 hours to ensure accurate and timely donor management.
• Prepare compelling proposals, correspondence, gift agreements, and stewardship reports, in coordination with the Development Communications Coordinator, Development Operations Manager, and Chief Development Officer.
• Identify and execute opportunities for donor upgrades, renewals, and planned giving discussions.
• Serve as a lead point of contact for high-level donor engagement activities, including curated VIP tours, cultivation events, and campaign efforts.
• Collaborate with internal colleagues and senior leadership to advance cross-departmental initiatives and ensure a seamless donor experience.
• Support the team through informal guidance and by setting a high standard for professionalism and results.
• Participate in at least three professional development activities annually, including training sessions, special projects, or industry events, to strengthen skills and enhance effectiveness.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level