Development Director

Opportunity to lead the development effort for a nationally recognized center for contemporary art

The Center for Maine Contemporary Art (CMCA) is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Director of Development to lead the organization’s fundraising effort in partnership with the Executive Director and Board of Trustees. Primary responsibilities include soliciting and cultivating philanthropic support for CMCA. This is a terrific opportunity to join a dedicated and passionate team presenting the highest quality contemporary art in a state-of-the-art facility in one of the most beautiful regions of the country.

Specifically, the position will spearhead key donor relations, communications and solicitation; secure sponsorships for annual exhibitions, educational offerings, and events; manage donor database(s); strategize annual donor and membership campaigns; and research and submit grant applications among other funding opportunities. The Director of Development will be the managing partner working closely with the Executive Director, who is chief spokesperson for CMCA.

Overview of Qualifications and Responsibilities

The position reports to and works closely with the Executive Director and serves as a staff liaison to board committees, including Development, Marketing and Events. The position works collaboratively with CMCA’s Development and Membership Associate, and also interfaces with all CMCA staff. The position requires close collaboration with the Executive Director.

• Provide strategic operational planning and leadership for all Museum development activities.
• Serve as an active and collaborative member of the CMCA’s leadership team.
• Facilitate communication among development team members and between development and other Museum departments.
• In collaboration with the Executive Director, be an effective partner with the CMCA’s Board of Trustees keeping them informed with regular reports, analysis and projections regarding development progress.
• Be a passionate, visible and informed advocate for CMCA and serve as one of its key spokespersons, actively seeking opportunities to engage with the broader community and to participate in events that position CMCA for improved fundraising or visibility.

Fundraising and Stewardship

• In partnership with the Executive Director, identify, cultivate and successfully solicit major gifts from a diverse group of individuals, foundations and businesses.

• Strategize and execute annual fundraising plans to ensure sustainable support, including developing communication and marketing campaigns.

• Manage a targeted portfolio of top donors and prospects; assist and support the Director with his meetings and communications with top donors and prospects.

• Collaborate with CMCA’s Membership & Development Assistant to strategize and develop annual membership campaigns to ensure growth.

• Develop and implement strategies that attract, welcome and engage diverse donors, growing CMCA’s public reach.

• Work collaboratively to develop annual fundraising initiatives that are integrated into key annual events.

Planning and Management

• Align development activities by creating a comprehensive, written annual development plan and calendar with clearly defined goals, objectives, timelines and responsibilities.
• Oversee and evaluate all processes and procedures related to prospect identification, engagement and stewardship activities, and contributions management.
• Work collaboratively with CMCA's Membership & Development Assistant and Communications Manager to ensure effective marketing efforts.

Qualifications

Minimum of Bachelor’s degree with at least 3-5 years of professional development experience. Excellent oral, written and interpersonal communications. Ability to work with a broad range of regional and national supporters. Proficiency with Sales Force is preferred; however, training will be provided to those who are new to Sales Force.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary is commensurate with experience. CMCA provides a competitive health care plan through the state of Maine.

Diversity & Inclusion

CMCA is an EA/EO employer and actively encourages candidates with diverse backgrounds to apply. It does not discriminate against any candidate or employee based on race, national origin, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion or veteran status.

How to Apply

Submit a cover letter, resume and three references to Tim Peterson, Executive Director, at tpeterson@cmcanow.org. Applications are accepted through March 15, 2022. The position is open until filled.

About CMCA

Founded in 1952, the Center for Maine Contemporary Art is located in downtown Rockland’s vibrant arts district in a 12,000-sq. ft. building designed by architect Toshiko Mori. It is the state’s longest running and leading non-profit contemporary arts institution.

The mission of CMCA is to advance contemporary art in Maine through direct engagement with artists and the public, creating exceptional exhibitions and education programs that communicate the transformative power of the art of our time. CMCA fulfills its mission by supporting and exhibiting the work of Maine and Maine-connected artists; by providing engaging learning opportunities that open new possibilities for artists and the public; and by serving as an essential platform for making art an accessible and vital part of our communities.

Rockland and the Region

Rockland is a seaside community of ca. 8,000 permanent residents that attracts prominent summer residents from New York City, Boston and beyond, and thousands of seasonal tourists. It is situated along the spectacular Maine coast and is the commercial center of the Mid-Coast region. Rockland has a rich history dating to the early 18th century with shipbuilding, fishing, mining and quarrying. In recent times tourism has become the dominant industry and the region boasts a rich variety of cultural organizations, ranging from the Farnsworth Art Museum and Wyeth Center, the Strand Theatre, Maine Media, the Camden International Film Festival, among others. Rockland and other nearby towns and villages offer comparatively affordable costs of living and housing.

Rockland is located 1.5 hours north of Portland, ME and Boston is 3 hours away. Four-season recreation includes virtually unlimited hiking, and cross-country and downhill skiing at several world-class locations. The coastal waters of Maine offer hundreds of miles of spectacular seaside experiences, including boating and fishing.