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Duties and Responsibilities

THE DIRECTOR OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
The Director of External Affairs plays a pivotal role in advancing the mission of the Morris Museum through fundraising, special events, membership management, and community relations. As Director, you’ll spearhead the planning, implementation, and oversight of all fundraising activities, as well as develop strategies to expand the Museum’s role in the greater Morris County community. The successful candidate will report directly to the Executive Director and work closely with board members and other key internal and external constituencies to secure support and build long-term relationships with the community in support of the Museum’s diverse programs.

Responsibilities include the following:
DEVELOPMENT OVERSIGHT AND STRATEGY
• Collaborate with the Executive Director, Board of Trustees, and senior leadership team to establish fundraising priorities, objectives, and timelines aligned with the Museum’s mission and strategic plan.
• Develop and execute annual fundraising plans to meet revenue goals, including individual giving and membership, corporate and foundation sponsorships, grants, and special events.
• Plan and execute special events, fundraising campaigns, and cultivation activities to engage donors, generate revenue, and raise awareness of the Museum’s mission and impact.
• Develop promotional materials, invitations, and digital content to support fundraising events and campaigns.
• Oversee the Museum’s ever-growing membership program (currently +/- 1,500 households) and a select group of Premier Members and Board Members.
• Cultivate and steward upper-level donor groups including the Director’s Circle ($2,500+) and the 1913 Circle for planned giving.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of fundraising initiatives, track key performance metrics, and provide regular reports to senior leadership and board members.
• Manage a staff of two: Institutional Giving Manager and Membership Coordinator.
• Assess development team needs and recommend appropriate hires and structure for continued growth.

FUNDRAISING
• Maintain a portfolio of up to 100 major gift prospects, corporate partners, and foundations to secure financial support for Museum programs, exhibitions, and initiatives.
• Collaborate with board members, volunteers, and staff to leverage their networks and relationships in support of fundraising efforts.
• Conduct prospect research and analysis to identify and cultivate potential donors, sponsors, and funding opportunities.
• Develop and implement strategies for donor recognition, engagement, and retention, including personalized stewardship plans, acknowledgment letters, and donor events.

COMMUNITY RELATIONS AND ENGAGEMENT
• Develop and maintain partnerships with local businesses, corporations, schools, and community and cultural organizations to expand the Museum’s reach and impact within the community.
• Work closely with the Director of Marketing and Communications to implement strategies that will increase visibility and engagement.
• Partner with the Executive Director and Board to systematically have a presence in the community, serving as a key point of contact for community organizations and municipal groups, members and supporters, and key community stakeholders to promote the Museum’s mission and initiatives.
• Collaborate with internal departments to ensure that Museum offerings are accessible and inclusive to all members of the community.