Director of Development

Director of DevelopmentCome join the fun and make a difference with Discovery Cube For over 25 years, we've been inspiring kids and educators alike with our hands-on science education initiatives and interactive exhibits. Our four core initiatives - STEM proficiency, early childhood education, healthy living, and environmental stewardship - are future-forward in promoting life-long-learning. Plus, with our immersive campuses in Orange County and Los Angeles, as well as our educational outreach programs, there are endless opportunities for learning exploration. As a prominent advocate for modern science education, we believe in empowering our learners with real-world applications and spotlighting science as a solution and force for good. Don't miss out on the excitement and join our important mission todayPositionThe Director of Development is a key member of the Development Team, reporting to the Vice President of Development. This adaptive and strategic team member will lead efforts to grow annual philanthropic support for STEM-focused initiatives and exhibits, engaging donors and partners across the full continuum of philanthropyfrom discovery to stewardship.In this front-line fundraising role, the Director will lead the identification, cultivation, and solicitation of transformative philanthropic partnerships and STEM-based sponsorships. They will craft and implement strategic donor engagement initiatives, compelling science-centered solicitations, and stewardship plans that advance the Cube's mission to ignite children's curiosity and learning through science.The ideal candidate is passionate about science education, skilled in relationship-building, and thrives in a dynamic, mission-driven environment. Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends is required to support donor events and Cube programming.ResponsibilitiesDevelop and implement effective fundraising strategies and build a strong portfolio of science-focused prospects that will result in the successful solicitation within our four core initiatives. STEM proficiency, early childhood education, healthy living, and environmental stewardshipDevelop and implement strategies to increase partnerships and sponsorships and donor retention for STEM-focused programs and exhibits.Alongside the VP design and implement donor stewardship programs that improve donor retention and increase giving levels.Provide regular progress reports, forecasts, and fundraising analysis.Communicate regularly with donors and funders to keep them informed about the organization's activities, impact, and funding needs.Collaborate with marketing and special events teams on fundraising collateral including donor proposals, social media strategies and philanthropic messaging in organization's newsletters.Help to develop all written communications, including solicitations, e-newsletters, acknowledgments, and stewardship communications.Maintain awareness of assessment tools and industry changes and share with colleagues.Utilize the CRM to track all donor activity.Support and collaborate with fellow staff members in achieving department goals.Support the Vice President, Development and CEO in their fundraising efforts by preparing them for meetings and events with individuals and drafting appropriate correspondence from the Vice President, Development and CEO.QualificationsBachelor's degree or equivalent relevant work experience.Over 5 years of proven success in fundraising and development, with deep expertise in environmental and STEM-focused initiatives. Demonstrated track record of securing significant philanthropic support and cultivating strategic partnerships in these sectors.Strong knowledge and practice of major gift fundraising, grant writing, donor stewardship, and campaign management.Strategic thinker with strong management and organizational skills.Excellent written and oral communication skills, including public speaking.Passion for science educationStrive to make an excellent first impression and develop sound, enduring relationships with a broad range of people within the Orange County philanthropic community, including high-level community and corporate leaders.Ability to manage many projects; prioritizing, meeting deadlines, and planning for high efficiency.Ability to lead, recruit, manage, develop, motivate, and organize staff and volunteers.Strong work ethic and ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities.A deep commitment to the mission of Discovery Cube and science education.Experience with donor databases, Microsoft Dynamics experience a plus.What's In It For YouMedical, dental and vision insuranceOptional supplemental insurance coverage401K with up to 4% match after one year for full-time employees14 Free general admission tickets per yearFestival tickets plus admission10% of on-site dining and shopping discountEmployee discounts through ADPAccrued paid time off for full-time employees10 paid company holidaysCompensation: $80,000 - $120,000 USDDiscovery Cube provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.