Senior Director of Development

POSITION: Senior Director of Development ORGANIZATION: CuriOdyssey (www.curiodyssey.org) LOCATION: San Mateo, California ORGANIZATION: CuriOdyssey is a mission-driven, dynamic, family-centric science center and zoo located in Coyote Point Park. Their mission is to inspire a love for science and curiosity about the world. They have recently completed a strategic reinvention, focusing on hands‑on experiences in concert with the natural world.

They have a strong commitment to making science education fully inclusive , which is integrated into their strategic planning, governance, and daily operations. A core part of this commitment is ensuring access for all, regardless of economic means. They provide free and low‑cost entrance through programs like Museums for All , Military and Teacher discounts and summer camp scholarships .

They also create an inclusive and welcoming environment through initiatives like Sensory Sundays and by designing their new facilities, such as the WHOOOSH! playground, to be universally accessible. Their team includes a dedicated Board of Directors, an energetic staff of 50, and over 70 volunteers. They welcome over 180,000 visitors annually and currently have an annual operating budget of approximately $6 million.

The organization is entering an exciting period of growth with opportunities to expand philanthropic investment and community partnerships. REPORTING RELATIONSHIP The Senior Director of Development reports directly to the CEO. POSITION SUMMARY CuriOdyssey is seeking a Senior Director of Development who is excited to inherit a mission‑driven, dynamic, family‑centric science center and zoo recognized in the community as a leader in early science education.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Senior Director of Development serves as a strategic thought partner to the CEO and is responsible for the formulation, implementation, and management of all development strategies for the organization. The position supervises 3.5 full‑time Development team members and works closely with the CEO, the Senior Leadership team, Board of Directors, and community to cultivate relationships with lapsed, current and prospective supporters with the goal of increasing philanthropic support to CuriOdyssey. The Senior Director oversees CuriOdyssey’s fundraising efforts including annual giving, major gifts, planned giving, corporate and foundation support, sponsorships and special events, as well as a potential capital campaign.

The Senior Director of Development oversees these internal functions: Major Gifts Officer, Annual Fund Manager, Development Operations Manager and a contract Grant Writer. The Senior Director of Development also stewards key external alliances and cultivates philanthropic support. Key metrics for success will include donor engagement through in‑person contacts and portfolio development and revenue.

The position will create, model, and champion a culture of philanthropy throughout the organization. SCOPE AND RESPONSIBILITIES Develop and implement a comprehensive and actionable development strategy for major gifts, annual fund, planned giving and corporate & foundation support. Work to develop a new pipeline of donors.

Serve as strategist to others on cultivating and securing transformational gifts and philanthropic investments. Partner with the CEO, Board and staff to identify major donors, eligible foundations and corporate sponsors. Design and implement customized cultivation strategies for each donor that will serve as a foundational communication and marketing plan for each individual within the portfolio.

Solicit contributions, cultivate and steward donors on behalf of the organization through a major gift portfolio of approximately 100, and corporate and foundation relationships. Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive, multi‑year fundraising strategy aligned with organizational priorities and growth objectives. Working with the CEO and Board of Directors, participate in establishing and approval of a capital campaign goal and implementation plan.

Assist with campaign volunteer engagement including recruiting and stewarding Campaign Cabinet members; lead regular Campaign Cabinet and steering committee meetings; and conduct proactive follow‑up. Develop, refine and update the Campaign Case for Support as needed. Create a depth chart to solicit and secure lead gifts.

Implement an annual Planned Giving strategy, working closely with planned giving professionals and others to increase the number of planned gifts members reported each year. Collaborate with staff and volunteers to coordinate cultivation events and other activities for donors/prospective donors. Work closely with the Director of Marketing & Communications to ensure proper coordination and integration of development in CuriOdyssey communications, collateral and other marketing efforts.

Design, implement and evaluate development budgets (income and expense) and activities which support organizational growth and fiscal soundness; combines development resources to achieve the greatest return on investment. Attend and work closely with the Board of Directors Development Committee; provide staff support to the committee, ensuring the committee chair is successful and effective. When needed, attend and present updates to the Board of Directors and the Finance Committee.

Manage development department, including the selection, integration and growth of department to ensure employee productivity and satisfaction. Encourage open communication, proactive conflict resolution, peer support, coaching, staff development and cross‑department collaboration. Define metrics and measurements quantifying performance against goals.

QUALIFICATIONS Minimum of 10-plus years of significant nonprofit fundraising experience and proven track record of raising more than $4 million annually. Seven-plus years of experience in major donor cultivation, solicitation and moves management. Proven track record of building donor relationships and closing gifts in the five‑ six‑ and seven‑figure range.

Direct experience in capital campaigns, special events, direct response, major gifts, planned giving, grants and corporate giving. Capital campaign experience is required for the success of this individual. Experience in securing six‑ and seven‑figure capital campaign gifts is a plus.

A strong knowledge of the charitable giving community in the Bay Area is helpful. Experience working with volunteer fundraisers to successfully close major gifts among their networks. A proven track record in creating new fundraising opportunities and reinvigorating existing programs.

Excellent interpersonal and communications skills with both internal and external constituencies, as well as written and verbal required. Proven experience in telling the story of an organization and its effectiveness. Excels at articulating organization goals, outcomes, objectives, and evaluation strategies to donors.

Adept at crafting compelling and high‑quality proposals, reports, solicitation letters and donor correspondence. The ideal candidate is passionate about expanding equitable access to science learning experiences and understands how philanthropy can advance STEM education and community engagement. Exceptionally strong strategic thinking, analytical and prospect research skills, and goal orientation are essential.

Ability to maintain highest levels of confidentiality with donor records and fund development information. Demonstrated ability to model excellent customer service and be seen as a mentor to others in providing excellent customer service. Must be able to effectively coordinate multiple time‑sensitive projects and meet critical deadlines.

Demonstrates an ability to work independently and with individuals, groups and committees. Proven track record of managing, motivating and developing the full potential of a talented development staff. Works well under pressure in a demanding, fast‑paced work environment.

Willingness to work a flexible schedule including evenings and occasional weekends. Experience in Raiser’s Edge, Salesforce or similar donor database preferred. Museum/zoo/aquarium/cultural institution experience is a plus, as well as organizations that have a membership function.

PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS A deep commitment to the goals and mission of CuriOdyssey. Passion for science education, experiential learning, and expanding equitable access to STEM opportunities for children and families. A personable, flexible, diplomatic, and respectful demeanor.

High ethical standards and a commitment to transparency. Proven ability to serve as a team player, mentor, and leader to motivate and inspire staff and colleagues. A well‑organized and focused individual who is capable of and interested in increasing the effectiveness of the development team.

EDUCATION A bachelor’s degree is preferred. Certification such as CFRE (Certified Fund‑Raising Executive) is a plus. CONTACT 3041 Baker Street #J-18808-Ljbffr