Job Description

About Mt. Cuba Center

Mt. Cuba Center is a premier botanic garden and research institution dedicated to the conservation of native plants and the preservation of biodiversity. We inspire an appreciation for the beauty and value of native plants through horticulture, education, and science. Located in the heart of the Delaware Valley, Mt. Cuba is at the forefront of ecological gardening and environmental stewardship.

Position Overview

Mt. Cuba Center seeks its inaugural Director of Philanthropy , a visionary leader tasked with building and leading our first comprehensive fundraising program. This is a unique opportunity to shape a strategic and sustainable philanthropic future for an institution with growing impact and national relevance.

The Director will be responsible for establishing and overseeing all aspects of fundraising—including major and principal gifts, annual giving, foundation and government grants, corporate sponsorships, and donor stewardship. They will work closely with the Executive Director, Board of Managers, and senior staff to develop a case for support and align development efforts with organizational goals and mission.

We are looking for a dynamic, relationship-driven leader with a strong track record in institutional fundraising and a passion for nature, gardens, and environmental causes.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Design and implement a multi-year fundraising strategy aligned with organizational priorities and mission.
• Set annual revenue goals and benchmarks for performance; regularly analyze and report on progress.
• Cultivate a culture of philanthropy among staff and Board through training, engagement, and strategic advising.
• Oversee philanthropy budget and financial planning in coordination with leadership.

Fundraising & Donor Development

• Lead efforts to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors at all levels—individual, foundation, corporate, and government.
• Develop and manage donor pipelines and engagement strategies for major and principal gifts.
• Oversee the planning and execution of campaigns, donor events, and giving initiatives.
• Represent Mt. Cuba in public and philanthropic forums, acting as a key ambassador for the organization – ability and willingness to travel is critical.

Annual Giving & Membership

• Provide strategic oversight of the Membership team and program.
• Integrate membership, annual giving, and volunteer engagement strategies to build a broader donor base.
• Lead the development and implementation of new annual giving initiatives and stewardship programs.

Board & External Relations

• Serve as the primary staff liaison to the Board of Managers on fundraising matters.
• Build relationships with external philanthropic partners, grant-making institutions, and community leaders.
• Collaborate with Marketing & Communications to develop compelling donor materials and case statements.

First-Year Priorities

1. Build a 5-Year Philanthropy Roadmap
   Develop and launch a strategic plan to grow annual philanthropic revenue to $3M within five years.
2. Establish Infrastructure
   Evaluate and implement donor management systems and processes to support data-driven decision-making.
3. Grow Philanthropic Networks
   Build relationships with prospective donors and partners who share our mission and values.
4. Launch Core Programs
   Initiate foundational donor engagement and annual giving programs, including stewardship protocols and membership growth strategies.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in nonprofit management, business, or related field preferred.
• 7–10 years of progressive fundraising leadership with demonstrated success in major gifts and program building.
• Experience in museums, public gardens, or mission-driven nonprofit organizations preferred.
• CFRE certification a plus.

Skills & Attributes

• Proven success securing 5- and 6-figure gifts and cultivating long-term donor relationships.
• Strategic thinker with experience setting and achieving ambitious fundraising goals.
• Proficient in CRM and donor management systems (Salesforce, Raiser's Edge, or similar).
• Strong communicator with excellent writing, public speaking, and interpersonal skills.
• Financial acumen and experience managing budgets and reporting.
• Passion for environmental conservation and appreciation for the mission of public gardens.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in fundraising practices.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: Commensurate with experience
• Schedule: Full-time, FLSA Exempt; primarily on-site with flexibility for occasional remote work
• Benefits Include:
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with up to 8% employer contribution
• Generous paid time off and leave
• Free garden admission
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional development opportunities

How to Apply

Submit the following:

• Resume
• Cover Letter (required)

Hiring Process

1. Application review (begins week of September 15)
2. Respond to an application questionnaire
3. Virtual screening interview
4. On-site interview with the Executive Director and strategic collaborators
5. On-site interview with the Leadership Team 
6. Final on-site interview with Board representatives

Target Start Date: Late September to late October/early November
All applicants will receive status updates via email throughout the process.

Commitment to Diversity

Mt. Cuba Center is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We strongly encourage candidates from all backgrounds and communities to apply. If you need assistance or accommodations during the application process, please contact us at careers[a]mtcubacenter.org.

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