Advancement Program Specialist

Description:

Come join a team of dedicated staff at an exceptional time in the Smithsonian’s history as we develop and implement strategic initiatives designated by the Smithsonian’s Secretary such as the Rural Initiative and Reckoning with Our Racial Past (RWORP). Community and nationally focused programs are being planned in support of these initiatives through 2025 and will our goal of expanding the Smithsonian’s reach and impact and empowering the institution to find solutions to today’s most pressing challenges. The Smithsonian is also developing two new museums. The National Museum of the American Latino and the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum share the experiences and perspectives of Latinos and women across history and deepen our shared understanding of what it means to be an American. The Smithsonian has built a model fundraising organization, driven by talented staff across our many museums, research centers and cultural centers. This position offers exciting opportunities for the successful candidate to make a significant impact on the future of the Smithsonian while working with designated units across the campus. There is no better time to join this amazing Institution.

The Office of Advancement oversees and guides the fundraising efforts of the entire Smithsonian and is home to the central advancement organization for the Institution. In addition to raising significant support for a variety of Smithsonian initiatives, the Office of Advancement provides support services to advancement offices across the Institution. The office engages with staff throughout the Smithsonian in accomplishing their goals.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Major Gifts Officer works in the Office of Advancement at the Smithsonian Institution as a member of the Major Gifts and Discovery team. This position offers an exciting opportunity for the successful candidate to make a significant impact on expanding the scope and scale of the Smithsonian’s vision through philanthropic efforts. The Gift Officer will play a critical role in furthering an engagement strategy for key markets, developing, and managing a portfolio of major gift prospects and helping formulate strategy and implement plans to achieve ambitious fundraising goals.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Successful candidates will demonstrate proven success in securing significant contributions from individuals through creative discovery and cultivation of productive relationships with prospective donors. Strong organizational, relationship, collaboration, and communication skills as well as the ability to work independently are essential. The MGO will develop and execute strategies for discovery and engagement, present opportunities for support, and complete solicitations for mission critical projects across the Smithsonian.

A minimum of four years of progressive major gift fundraising experience, a passion for learning and exploration, and the desire to join a dynamic and growing operation should be demonstrated in your application. Experience in complex higher education or a large cultural or environmental organization is preferred. Travel is required and work during the evenings and weekends may be necessary.

Applicants who wish to qualify based on education completed outside the United States, must be deemed equivalent to higher education programs of U.S. Institutions by an organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials. This documentation is the responsibility of the applicant and should be included as part of your application package.

Any false statement in your application may result in your application being rejected and may also result in termination after employment begins.

Application Instructions

The Smithsonian Institution values and seeks a diverse workforce. Join us in "Inspiring Generations through Knowledge and Discovery." Interested candidates should submit their resumes and a cover letter by March 8, 2024. Resumes should include a description of your paid and non-paid work experience that is related to this job; starting and ending dates of job (month and year); and average number of hours worked per week. Relocation expenses are not paid.

What To Expect Next: Once the vacancy announcement closes, a review of your resume will be compared against the qualification and experience requirements related to this job. After review of applicant resumes is complete, qualified candidates will be referred to the hiring manager.