Note: This listing closes on July 17th.

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Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Reports to: Board of Directors
 

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Job details:

Salary range: $18,000 - $22,000 

Part-time (20 hours/week) for 5 months on a contract basis with bi-weekly payments

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The Museum is not offering direct employment positions at this time. There is the potential to extend the contract for another year subject to a review of achievements and goals being met during the 5-month period. The expected start date for the 5-month position is August 3.

 

Position Summary

 

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) serves as the organization’s chief fundraiser and chief ambassador, with initial responsibility for securing the first phase of funding for a $34 million capital campaign. The CEO is the public face of the organization and leads donor cultivation, major gifts, capital campaign execution, and community engagement.

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Primary Responsibilities

 

Fundraising & Revenue Generation

• Lead all fundraising execution, including capital campaign gifts, corporate sponsorships, and grants, in partnership with the Board and the capital campaign consultants.

• Serve as solicitor for major gifts, including personal engagement with top prospects

• Manage a portfolio of major donors and prospects, with clear revenue targets

• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to:

  • Prepare board members for donor cultivation and solicitations

  • Activate board participation in events and major donor asks

• Partner with consultants as directed by the Board

• Serve on committees as requested

• Track campaign progress and regularly report metrics, risks, and opportunities to the Board

• Maintain strong donor confidence through transparent communication and stewardship

• Ensure adherence to board-approved fundraising policies, ethical standards, and gift acceptance guidelines

 

External Relations & Community Leadership

• Act as the organization’s primary external representative and advocate

• Build and maintain strong relationships with:

  • Major donors and philanthropists

  • Corporate partners and foundations

  • Community leaders, elected officials, and stakeholders

• Represent the organization at community events, donor meetings, and public forums

• Strengthen the organization’s visibility and reputation to support long-term philanthropic growth

• Collaborate with the Director of Operations to ensure fundraising goals are operationally supported

 

Qualifications & Experience

• Ability to personally solicit and close six- and seven-figure gifts

• Experience partnering with boards on fundraising and donor engagement

• Strong relationship-building, communication, and presentation skills

• High level of integrity and adherence to ethical fundraising standards

• Bachelor’s degree required

• Public speaking experience to large groups

• Experience with donor management software, for example Engage, Bloomerang, Raiser's Edge

 

Performance Indicators

• Capital campaign milestones achieved on schedule

• Growth and retention of major donor portfolio

• Effective board participation in fundraising

• Strong donor stewardship and satisfaction

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Please download and fill out the application or send a resume and a cover letter to:

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Susan Dotson: susan.dotson@blackhillschildrensmuseum.org

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In your cover letter please describe any prior experience, projects, or accomplishments that are directly relevant to this role, and explain what draws you to this opportunity and what you hope to contribute.