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University of Kansas

Assistant Director for Development

University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, us, 66045


Position Overview

The University of Kansas Biodiversity Institute (BI) is a premier research and education institute in biodiversity science. The BI comprises three units:

Natural History Museum (NHM) , provides informal science education and outreach through public programming and exhibits.

Research and Collections , includes 14 scientific research divisions and departments with millions of specimens and cultural objects.

Paleontological Institute,

is the global hub for the Treatise of Invertebrate Paleontology.

The BI is home to staff and students engaged in scientific research, education, and service in various fields. The BI acquires, manages, and stewards collections of recent and extinct plants and animals, and of past cultural objects. The BI serves the biodiversity science and archaeology communities through access to collection-based data and extensive loans of specimens. The BI has an annual state operating budget approaching $3 million.

Working with the director and other staff, the Assistant Director for Development is responsible for planning and implementing development and fundraising activities for the BI/NHM. This position includes managing museum memberships, organizing donor contacts, assisting with fundraising, and serving as a spokesperson for the BI/NHM.

Job Description

45% - Resource Development

Work with the BI/NHM Director to identify fundraising priorities and implement associated activities.

Identify funding opportunities and submit proposals to support BI/NHM programs.

Manage current and prospective donor relations.

Develop and coordinate donor-focused events.

30% - Public Engagement

Manage the NHM membership program, including recruitment of new and lapsed members.

Plan and implement events to engage the public.

10% - Board Relations

Serve as the primary contact for the Board of Advisors, providing administrative support.

Work with the Board to identify projects that support the BI/NHM mission.

Keep the board informed of BI/NHM news.

5% - Administration and Service

Advise the BI/NHM Director on development matters.

Serve on BI/NHM committees.

Be a spokesperson for the BI/NHM at events.

5% - Supervision and Management

Supervise the Visitor Services and Donor Relations Coordinator.

As necessary, supervise student assistants.

5% - Other duties as assigned

Position Requirements

Ability to work evening and weekend events, as needed.

Eligibility to work in U.S.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.

Three years of related professional experience.

Experience writing successful proposals for external funding.

Strong writing and organizational skills.

Supervisory experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in a relevant field.

Three or more years of professional experience in development.

Strong interpersonal skills for maintaining donor relations.

Knowledge and interest in natural history.

Experience with non-profit fundraising.

Experience at a large public research institution or museum.

Familiarity with customer relationship management software.

Experience with event planning.

Project management experience.

Excellent oral communication skills.

Additional Candidate Instructions

Required documents for application:

Cover letter describing qualifications.

Resume

List of three professional references

Writing sample of a proposal seeking funding

Only complete applications will be considered.

Application review begins Monday, September 16th, 2024 and will continue until a qualified pool of applicants is identified.

Contact Information to Applicants

Jaime Keeler, jrkeeler@ku.edu

Advertised Salary Range

$65,000 - $75,000, depending on qualifications

Work Schedule

40 hours/week

Application Review Begins

Monday September 16, 2024

Anticipated Start Date

Sunday December 1, 2024

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