Managing Director of Philanthropy
The Missouri Historical Society is seeking an experienced fundraising leader to join its executive team as Managing Director of Philanthropy. Based in St. Louis, Missouri, this senior leadership role will lead the organisation's philanthropic strategy, building relationships with donors, foundations and corporate partners to support one of the region's leading cultural institutions.
About the role
The Managing Director of Philanthropy will provide strategic leadership for all fundraising activities across the Missouri Historical Society, helping to secure the financial support needed to advance its mission and long-term sustainability.
Working closely with the President & CEO, Board members and senior leadership team, the successful candidate will oversee major gifts, annual giving, corporate partnerships, foundation grants and planned giving while developing strategies to strengthen donor engagement and philanthropic growth.
This role offers an opportunity to shape the future of an organisation that preserves and shares the history of Missouri through its museums, collections, exhibitions, educational programmes and community initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the Missouri Historical Society's overall fundraising strategy.
- Develop and manage major gift, annual giving and planned giving programmes.
- Build and maintain relationships with individual, corporate and foundation donors.
- Work with senior leadership and trustees to identify new philanthropic opportunities.
- Lead and develop the philanthropy team.
- Monitor fundraising performance and establish long-term revenue goals.
- Represent the organisation at donor, community and fundraising events.
- Support capital campaigns and special fundraising initiatives where required.
About You
The successful candidate will be an accomplished fundraising professional with experience leading philanthropy programmes within the nonprofit, museum, cultural or higher education sectors.
You will likely bring:
- Significant experience securing major gifts.
- Success developing long-term fundraising strategies.
- Strong relationship-building and stewardship skills.
- Experience leading and mentoring fundraising teams.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills.
- Strategic planning and financial management experience.
- A passion for supporting cultural and educational organisations.
About Missouri Historical Society
Founded in 1866, the Missouri Historical Society preserves and shares the history of Missouri through its museums, archives, library collections, exhibitions, public programmes and educational initiatives. Based in Forest Park, St. Louis, the organisation inspires audiences by connecting people with the stories, objects and ideas that have shaped the region's past and present.
