Organization Profile
Located in the resurging metropolis of Detroit, Michigan, the Motown Museum is one of the nation’s most popular tourist destinations. Despite the passage of time since Motown Record’s establishment in 1959 by Berry Gordy, tens of thousands of visitors pass through Hitsville U.S.A., home of the Motown Museum each year. The continued popularity is evidence of Motown’s legacy and the charisma, talent and staying power of the music and those who made it. The Motown Museum was founded in 1985 by the late Ester Gordy Edwards, Berry Gordy’s sister.
Visitors come from around the world to stand in Studio A, where their favorite artist and groups recorded much-loved music, and to view the restored upper flat where Berry Gordy lived with his young family during the company’s earliest days. Home to an extensive array of Motown artifacts, photography and other memorabilia, Motown Museum’s calling is to preserve, protect and present the Motown Story through authentic, inspirational and educational experiences.
A 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the Motown Museum tells the story of how a man’s vision turned into one of the largest, most successful record companies of all time and how the music – the Motown Sound – captivated the hearts of young people, not only in America but across the globe.
Position Summary
Under the direction of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the Director of Fund Development will cultivate and solicit private contributions and investment to the Motown Museum from annual fund giving, major and principal gifts, either outright or through deferred giving, effective donor stewardship, membership and event management.
The ideal candidate will have at least five years successful fundraising experience and an aptitude to lead a development team through strategic, visionary leadership. The successful professional will be a creative, enthusiastic team member with the ability to clearly communicate the mission and values of the Motown Museum. Professionals who would be fulfilled by working for a dynamic organization that is passionate about preserving and growing the iconic Motown brand should consider a career at The Motown Museum.
As Director of Fund Development, you will be at the heart of the development program and a vital member of the senior leadership team. In this role, you will have an opportunity to make an impressive impact helping to inspire people to understand not only the power of the Motown Sound but challenge them to dream.
Ideal Qualities
The successful candidate will demonstrate the following characteristics and ideals:
• Emotional intelligence
• Enthusiasm for the Motown legacy
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• A track record of engaging and influencing volunteers, prospects and donors
• An entrepreneurial spirit and ability to work independently
• Attention to detail and strong time-management and organizational skills
• Skill in successfully managing multiple projects on tight deadlines and under pressure in a dynamic and open environment
• Unquestionable integrity
• An ability to travel and undertake occasional evening and weekend work
• A commitment to assessment and data-driven fundraising
• A person who makes everyone proud that they are a member of the team
Qualifications
• Qualities and experiences that ideal candidates should display include:
• An earned baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
• A minimum of five (5) or more years of successful experience working with donor prospects and having a significant history of closing gifts.
• A working knowledge of the principles and practices of metrics-driven major gift fundraising
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work harmoniously with Board members, senior administration, volunteers, and staff
• Demonstrated ability to communicate persuasively, orally and in writing, the organization’s case for support to individuals, groups, corporate leaders, and foundations
• A high level of initiative, strong personal work ethic, and energy
• Ability to think critically and articulate opinions
• Ability to become acquainted with key donors in a short timeframe
• Unquestionable integrity and a strong sense of professional ethics
Preferred
Preference will be given to candidates that also display one or more of the following:
• Experience with fundraising in arts and culture organizations
• Fundraising or association accreditation (CFRE, FAHP, CAE or equivalent)
• Experience working in a capital campaign environment
• Experience with membership programs
Disclosure
• The salary offering is competitive and commensurate with experience, qualifications, and verifiable salary history
• This position will require occasional business travel
• This position statement is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and requirements. This position statement is presented as a fair reflection of the principal job elements
Please send résumé and cover letter electronically to:motow
Sharri Watkins
Human Resources Manager
Motown Museum
swatkins@motownmuseum.org
Motown Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer
About Pillar Search
With personalized service and proven results, Pillar is your partner in executive search and human resources consulting. With over 20 years of experience, Pillar provides retained search services for exceptional non-profits and foundations and early-stage or rapid growth for-profit firms. A woman-owned business, Pillar is based in Boston, MA, and works on both a local and national level.
