Advancement Director

Mattress Factory, the contemporary art museum and international artist residency in Pittsburgh, is seeking an Advancement Director to lead its fundraising, membership and marketing activities.

As the museum approaches its 50th anniversary in 2027, the Advancement Director will play a key role in growing and diversifying financial support while strengthening relationships with donors, members, funders and the wider community.

The role

Working closely with the Executive Director as part of the Senior Leadership Team, the Advancement Director will develop and deliver fundraising, membership and marketing strategies that support the museum’s artistic and strategic goals.

The role oversees the Development and Membership Manager and Marketing Manager and will act as a senior public representative for the museum.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and lead fundraising across individual giving, membership, major gifts, foundations, corporate support, government funding, sponsorship and events.
• Build and manage relationships with major donors, prospects and institutional funders.
• Lead grant strategy, including writing proposals and reports and managing funder relationships.
• Support fundraising plans for the museum’s 50th anniversary and future campus and capital priorities.
• Oversee annual giving and provide fundraising leadership for the museum’s Garden Party and other events.
• Develop donor cultivation initiatives, including donor trips and special events.
• Provide strategic direction for the museum’s membership programme.
• Oversee marketing, communications and PR, working closely with the Marketing Manager.
• Manage and mentor the Development and Membership Manager and Marketing Manager.
• Work with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to support fundraising goals and engage board members in advancement activities.
• Represent Mattress Factory with donors, community leaders, cultural organisations and other stakeholders.

Qualifications and experience

• At least five years of progressive experience in fundraising, development or advancement, with success securing major gifts, grants and sponsorships.
• A bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, marketing, communications or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Demonstrated grant-writing and institutional fundraising experience.
• Experience managing and developing staff.
• Experience delivering fundraising campaigns and high-profile events.
• Experience working with boards and volunteer committees.
• Working knowledge of marketing, communications and public relations.
• Strong written, verbal, interpersonal and public-speaking skills.
• Experience in a museum, arts or cultural organisation is an advantage.
• An interest in contemporary art and its role within communities.

About Mattress Factory

Founded in 1977, Mattress Factory is an artist-centred contemporary art museum and international residency programme in Pittsburgh. The museum works with artists to create site-specific installations and connects audiences with contemporary art through exhibitions, events and community programmes.