ICA Director of Development - College of Fine Arts

The College of Fine Arts at Carnegie Mellon University is a vibrant community of artists and designers who challenge conventions and seek new forms of expression. Through our five schools—Architecture, Art, Design, Drama and Music—and interdisciplinary programs and institutes, including BXA Intercollege Degree Programs, the STUDIO for Creative Inquiry and Institute for Contemporary Art Pittsburgh, we foster an environment where bold thinking and unbridled creativity flourish.

In anticipation of the early 2028 opening of ICA Pittsburgh’s permanent home in Richard King Mellon Hall, Carnegie Mellon University is seeking an ICA Pittsburgh Director of Development. The Director of Development will be primarily responsible for designing, implementing and growing a comprehensive fundraising program to support the museum’s expanded exhibitions, programs and operations.

As the inaugural development leader focused on the ICA, the Director of Development is a member of the College of Fine Arts Advancement team, works in close partnership with the ICA Pittsburgh Director, ICA staff, and with colleagues across University Advancement to build philanthropic support for exhibitions, public programs, educational initiatives, and strategic priorities. The Director of Development will establish the museum's philanthropic identity by building fundraising strategies, systems, and donor engagement programs that position ICA Pittsburgh for long-term success and expand its network of regional and national supporters.

This is a highly collaborative position requiring an entrepreneurial fundraiser who enjoys building new programs, cultivating meaningful donor relationships, and working across academic, artistic, and community partners.

Core responsibilities include:

• Developing and executing a comprehensive fundraising program designed to generate $500,000+ in annual contributed revenue while building endowment support for the museum's long-term sustainability.
• Designing and overseeing the ICA annual fund in collaboration with the University Advancement Annual Giving team.
• Managing a portfolio of major gift prospects and donors through qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Representing and advocating for ICA Pittsburgh across University Advancement and partner on major gift opportunities.
• Partnering with the College of Fine Arts Associate Director of Institutional Partnerships and University Advancement to secure foundation and corporate support.
• Leading the development of the ICA Patrons Council and serves as its primary staff liaison, overseeing membership, meetings, fundraising, and engagement opportunities.
• Developing and implementing donor cultivation, stewardship, and fundraising events.
• Coordinate donor communications and stewardship materials with museum marketing and communications staff.
• Managing fundraising operations, including donor records, reporting, CRM utilization, and fundraising analytics in partnership with University Advancement Record Administration.
• Contributing to broader College of Fine Arts Advancement initiatives and priorities as needed and appropriate.
• Other duties as assigned.

Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

You should demonstrate:

• Exceptional relationship-building and communication skills.
• Strategic, entrepreneurial approach to fundraising and donor engagement.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree required (advanced degree preferred)
• Seven or more years of progressively responsible fundraising experience.
• Demonstrated success securing major gifts from individuals.
• Experience managing annual giving, membership, volunteer boards, or comprehensive fundraising programs.
• Experience in museums, arts organizations, higher education, or cultural nonprofits preferred.
• Experience building or significantly expanding fundraising programs is highly desirable.

A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Requirements:

• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check

Additional Information:

• Sponsorship: Applicants for this position must be currently legally authorized to work for CMU in the United States. CMU will not sponsor or take over the sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity.  Carnegie Mellon is not a qualifying employer for the STEM OPT benefit: only the 12-month OPT may be used to work at Carnegie Mellon.
• Travel Requirements: Occasional travel around the Pittsburgh area may be required
• Reporting structure: The Director of Development reports to the Chief Advancement Officer for the College of Fine Arts, with a dotted-line relationship to the Director of ICA Pittsburgh.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

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