Development and Communications Manager

This unique leadership position helps channel resources to a leading Santa Cruz institution that unites people through art and history, deepens understanding, elevates diverse voices, and sparks curiosity and connections. Working under the Executive Director, the Manager of Fundraising & Communications develops strategies, plans events, writes grants, and manages donor relations to secure funding, while also handling PR, media, and content (social/email/press) to promote the MAH’s mission, ensuring consistent messaging across all platforms to build support and drive fundraising goals. This role combines strategic planning, excellent communications, marketing, and data analysis to inspire giving and demonstrate impact, requiring strong leadership and cross-departmental collaboration for success. Principal Duties and Responsibilities: This position provides leadership and management for the creation and implementation of short and long-term development plans to support the MAH’s institutional mission-driven initiatives. This position will identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward gifts from individuals, foundations, corporations, and government sources to support the MAH’s mission, and achieve the museum’s strategic goals. This position will oversee implementation of an overarching development and marketing plan, including establishment and management of consistent brand identity and communications across all media platforms. Essential Job Functions: Fundraising Strategy: In collaboration with the Executive Director, develop and implement plans for grants, events, major donors, corporate partnerships, and digital campaigns, including year-end appeal. Communications: Oversee Media & Communications Coordinator, social media, newsletters, and website content, as well as basic donor communications and recognition letters. Donor Cultivation: In collaboration with the Executive Director, identify, contact, and build relationships with potential and existing donors, including face-to-face meetings. Content Creation: Craft compelling stories, press releases, appeals, and reports that highlight the organization’s impact. Lead on grant writing and reporting. Event Management: In collaboration with the Special Events and Rentals Manager, Museum Experience and Membership Manager, and Public Programs Coordinator, plan and execute fundraising events, from small community gatherings to large galas. Team Leadership: Supervise Media & Communications Coordinator, oversee monthly Development Committee meetings, and collaborate across departments. Data & Reporting: Analyze donor data to refine strategies and demonstrate return on investment. Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree and at least 5 years’ experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, and communications Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Suite, and Salesforce Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written Detail oriented with superior organizational and multitasking abilities Museum and/or art related experience a plus A sense of humor a plus! How to Apply: To apply, please send a CV, cover letter of interest, and three references to Ginger Shulick Porcella at ginger@santacruzmah.org. The position will remain open until filled. About the Organization: The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (MAH) is the cultural hub of Santa Cruz County—a place where people come together to celebrate art and history, discover themselves, and connect with one another through experiences and exhibitions that resonate locally and globally. #J-18808-Ljbffr