Job Title/Position: Director of Development Reports to: Chief Executive Officer Schedule: M-F, Full-time Exempt, some evenings and weekends required. Pay Rate: $90,000-$95,000 commensurate with experience JOB SUMMARY Discovery World is seeking a strategic, mission-driven Director of Development to lead and grow its philanthropic efforts. As the organization prepares for its next phase of growth, deepening its community impact and investing in new exhibits and programming, the Director will design and drive a bold, data-informed fundraising strategy that expands and diversifies revenue. This is a pivotal leadership role for a proactive fundraiser and strategic thinker who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, understands the unique opportunities in science and education philanthropy, and is motivated by mission and measurable results. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Other minor duties may be assigned. Lead the vision, development, and execution of a comprehensive, multi-channel fundraising strategy aligned with Discovery Worlds short- and long-term goals. Build and oversee an integrated development plan encompassing individual giving, major gifts, annual campaigns, corporate sponsorships, planned giving, foundation and government grants, and special initiatives. Establish and regularly evaluate measurable goals, benchmarks, and KPIs for all fundraising activity, with a focus on donor retention, revenue growth, and campaign ROI. Partner with the President & CEO, senior leadership team, and Board of Directors to align fundraising strategy with organizational priorities and ensure a culture of philanthropy throughout the institution. Lead capital project fundraising planning and execution as needed, including feasibility studies, case statement development, and donor engagement strategies. Stay informed on national and regional philanthropic trends to proactively identify new fundraising opportunities, networks, and innovations in the nonprofit development landscape. Serve as the lead strategist for Discovery Worlds largest annual fundraising event (gala), with accountability for revenue, donor experience, and alignment with the organizations mission. Lead the development team in coordinating gala planning, including theme development, sponsorship strategy, auction or paddle raise elements, donor cultivation, and vendor/venue management. Partner closely with the Board, President & CEO, and Development committee to maximize visibility, engagement, and philanthropic outcomes. Ensure post-event analysis and stewardship strategies are implemented to strengthen donor relationships and prepare for future success. Organizational & Board Partnership Work closely with the President & CEO and senior leadership to ensure development strategy is integrated into all facets of the organization. Serve as the lead staff partner to the Board Development Committee, providing tools and guidance for peer-to-peer engagement and solicitation. Promote a culture of philanthropy across staff and board, including coaching and fundraising support for internal teams. Development Operations & Team Management Supervise and mentor development team members and external contractors. Oversee CRM/database strategy, donor segmentation, reporting, and stewardship operations. Lead campaign planning and donor communications in collaboration with marketing and programming teams. WORK ENVIRONMENT Listed below are key points regarding environmental demands and work environment of the job.Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Required to use motor coordination and finger dexterity (such as keyboarding, machine operation, etc.): Often. Required to speak to customers via telephone, email, and/or in-person: Often. May be required to lift objects up to 30 pounds: Infrequently. May be exposed to physical occupational risks (cuts, burns, exposure to toxic chemicals, etc.): Rarely. May be exposed to a physical environment which involves dirt, odors, and noise, weather extremes, and/or similar elements: Rarely. The normal setting for this position is: This position is in-person. Office and Museum Exhibit setting. Qualifications JOB QUALIFICATIONS The requirements listed below are representative of the qualifications necessary to perform the job. Education and Experience A minimum of 7 years in nonprofit development with demonstrated success in building and managing comprehensive fundraising strategies. Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in a related field is required. Experience cultivating major gifts and leading cross-functional fundraising initiatives. Other Knowledge, Skills, or Abilities Strong strategic planning, communication, and data analysis skills. A collaborative leadership style, with experience managing teams and working closely with executives and boards. Familiarity with science, education, or cultural institutions preferred, but not required. Passion for learning, and community engagement. Seniority level Seniority level Director Employment type Employment type Full-time Job function Job function Other Industries Museums, Historical Sites, and Zoos Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Discovery World by 2x Get notified about new Director of Development jobs in Milwaukee, WI . 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