Job Objective
The Director of Development & Partnerships is responsible for defining and leading the organization's overall fundraising, sponsorship, and strategic partnership vision. This role drives sustainable revenue growth, strengthens global institutional relationships, and positions the organization as a leading cultural destination through high-impact collaborations.
The role focuses on securing major funding streams, building long-term partnerships, and contributing to the organization's strategic and financial sustainability at an executive level.
Organizational Relationships
Reporting To:
Executive Leadership
Responsible For:
- Development & Fundraising
- Corporate & Institutional Partnerships
- Membership & Loyalty Programs
- Sponsorships & Strategic Alliances
Internal Liaison:
Executive leadership, Curatorial, Education, Operations, Finance, Legal, and Communications teams
External Liaison:
- Government entities and policymakers
- Global cultural institutions and foundations
- Corporate sponsors and investors
- High-net-worth individuals and patrons
- Media, academia, and international stakeholders
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Leadership
- Define and lead the long-term Development & Partnerships strategy aligned with organizational vision and growth objectives.
- Advise executive leadership on revenue diversification, partnership models, and funding opportunities.
- Position the organization competitively within regional and international cultural ecosystems.
2. Fundraising & Revenue Generation
- Lead high-value fundraising initiatives including major gifts, endowments, grants, and sponsorships.
- Establish ambitious revenue targets and ensure consistent achievement through structured pipelines.
- Oversee development of compelling funding proposals and cases for support at institutional level.
3. Corporate & Institutional Partnerships
- Build and maintain strategic relationships with global corporations, foundations, and government bodies.
- Negotiate and secure complex, multi-year partnership agreements.
- Develop innovative partnership models that enhance brand positioning and audience engagement.
4. Stakeholder & Board Engagement
- Act as a key representative to board members, trustees, and high-level stakeholders.
- Lead engagement strategies for patrons, donors, and strategic partners.
- Represent the organization in international forums, events, and high-level negotiations.
5. Organizational Integration
- Collaborate with curatorial, education, and programming teams to align partnerships with content and exhibitions.
- Ensure all partnerships support institutional mission, audience growth, and cultural impact.
- Lead cross-functional alignment on revenue-generating initiatives.
6. Leadership & Governance
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing development and partnerships team.
- Establish KPIs, governance frameworks, and performance tracking systems.
- Oversee departmental budgets, forecasting, and financial planning.
7. Brand & External Relations
- Strengthen the organization's reputation through strategic alliances and public engagement.
- Oversee relationship management with media, public entities, and international networks.
- Drive visibility and positioning through partnerships that enhance global recognition.
Key Requirements
- 12–15+ years of progressive experience in fundraising, partnerships, or business development.
- Proven track record in securing high-value, complex funding agreements and sponsorships.
- Strong international network across corporate, governmental, and cultural sectors.
- Demonstrated leadership experience at a senior or executive level.
- Experience working in large-scale, multi-stakeholder environments.
Core Competencies
- Strategic thinking and executive decision-making
- Advanced negotiation and influencing skills
- Financial and commercial acumen
- Stakeholder diplomacy and relationship management
- Leadership and organizational development
- Global mindset and cultural intelligence
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Total annual revenue generated through partnerships and fundraising
- Value and longevity of strategic partnerships secured
- Growth in donor and sponsor portfolio
- Contribution to long-term financial sustainability
- Stakeholder engagement and satisfaction
Educational Requirements
- Master's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Communications, or related field
- Relevant executive education or certifications (preferred)
