1. Serves as the guiding architect of a cohesive and comprehensive fundraising program that celebrates a culture of philanthropy and extends opportunities for those who embrace the museum’s priorities, mission, and values to participate in support of that work.

2. Provides strategic and operational fundraising leadership for both ongoing initiatives and special campaigns that enable the museum to accomplish its mission.

3. Establishes ways to build capacity to support increasing funding requirements, particularly through the expansion of the pool of major gift prospects. Emphasizes the identification and cultivation of the next generation of donors.

4. Identifies and capitalizes on opportunities to expand the museum’s endowment so that the resulting income stream can support a larger physical operation, expanding collections, important and relevant exhibitions, and thriving educational and engagement programs.

5. Brings together, as well as guides and supports, development staff, senior staff, board members, and other volunteers to develop fundraising goals and strategies for each giving program and to cultivate and solicit prospective donors.

6. Oversees and coordinates the volunteer activities of the museum’s Development Committee.

7. Manages a personal portfolio of top-tier donors.

8. Sets clear direction and priorities for the entire Advancement Department. Promotes excellence through well-defined and measurable goals; inspires and motivates staff through fostering a work environment that rewards new ideas and risk-taking, builds confidence, encourages team-based efforts within the museum and across the Menil community, and promotes inclusion and diversity.

9. Establishes policies, systems, and procedures, with a particular emphasis on professionalism and ethical standards for soliciting, acknowledging, tracking, and reporting gifts.

10. Fosters a culture of continuous improvement and utilization of best practices and internal and external customer service.

11. Provides the highest level of personal support to Trustees for their activities on behalf of the museum; ensures that their volunteer experience is meaningful, productive, and enjoyable, and that the Trustees’ intellectual and emotional connection to the Menil and each other is strengthened.

12. Works with the Director, President of the Board and the Nominating & Governance Committee on the identification, cultivation, and recruitment of new Board members.

13. Holds signing authority on development-related documents such as foundation/corporate grant agreements and matching gift forms as an official representative of the Menil Collection and Foundation.

14. Acts as a leader within the Menil Collection, adding expertise, guidance, and collegial participation in the discussion, formulation, and implementation of policies, procedures, and priorities of the organization.

1. 10 to 15 years of development experience, with an ability to articulate programmatic objectives and strategically seek support for these endeavors with energy and passion for the Menil’s core values.

2. A Bachelor’s degree with an advanced degree is preferred.

3. Extensive knowledge of fundraising principles, techniques, and ethics; an understanding of annual giving, membership support, and planned giving strategies.

4. Knowledge of the major sources of funding, including foundation, corporate, individual, and government.

5. Proven track record in organizing fundraising activities effectively and participating personally in high-level development negotiations.

6. Excellent writing and organizational skills; sound judgment and strong professional presence.

7. Excellent administrative and management skills, including experience managing team members performing diverse tasks. Must have experience inspiring performance.

8. Strong collaborative skills necessary to effectively partner with other key areas of the museum.

9. Collegial management style that promotes teamwork, creativity, and open communication.

10. Ability to interact effectively with Board, volunteers, donors, and staff at all levels, as well as an ability to understand and effectively articulate the mission and goals of the Menil.

11. Interest in and appreciation for the visual arts.

12. Previous employment at a cultural institution, notable academic institution, or national non-profit organization is strongly preferred

13. A demonstrated interest and ability to share the collection with diverse audiences and build a positive image and strong relationships for the Menil Collection.

14. Innovative thinking and clear communication skills.

15. A reputation for the highest level of integrity and credibility.

The Menil Collection’s institutional culture is guided by the following core values:

Empathy We are a small staff who work closely together. We are committed to acting with kindness, respect, and understanding towards one another.

Excellence We uphold the highest professional standards. We consistently strive to exceed expectations.

Intellectual Curiosity Guided by our founders’ vision, we are socially and culturally aware, and pursue new and challenging ideas.

Community We are a thoughtful and active member of the Montrose and greater Houston community; we are a good neighbor and responsible partner.