The New Children's Museum -- Job Openings

Thank you for your interest in employment with The New Children's Museum. Refer to the application section of each job posting for details on the submittal process. Please no phone calls.

Director, Development

Department: Development
Reports to: Executive Director
Supervises: Development Assistant, Development Manager, Development Writer, Membership Coordinator
Type of position: Full-time, exempt

Job Summary
The New Children’s Museum (“NCM”) is a dynamic new model of a museum that provides inventive and engaging art experiences that are meaningful to children and families. NCM brings families together in a rich educational environment that fosters creativity — blending elements of art museum, children’s museum, and community center. A non-profit institution funded by admissions, memberships, and community support, the Museum stimulates imagination, inquisitiveness and innovative thinking by exhibiting participatory works of art and providing a venue for art making and play. Serving all ages, from toddler to teen, NCM inspires new ways to see the world through the language of art.

NCM seeks an experienced development professional with proven fundraising, donor stewardship and management skills to direct the development department at the Museum. Individual must have experience developing fundraising campaigns, soliciting and closing major gifts, cultivating an active portfolio of prospects and donors, stewarding a membership program, and managing major fundraising galas.

Job Responsibilities

Collaborate with Executive Director to formulate strategies and implement programs to achieve NCM’s annual fundraising goals.
Individual, Corporate, Government & Foundation Giving:
- Develop and manage giving programs, including planned giving and endowment giving.
- Develop and implement comprehensive donor strategies for securing major gifts.
- Build new donor audiences by developing partnerships and by identifying, researching, qualifying and cultivating individual prospects from existing database and outside sources.
- Plan and execute donor cultivation, stewardship and all related fundraising events. Manage donor communications including solicitations and follow-up.
Annual Fundraising Gala: Manage annual fundraising Gala including working with board-driven Gala Committee and NCM leadership to solicit underwriting from individual and corporate sponsors, ensure fundraising message is positioned throughout materials and events;
- With team of development and event services staff, oversee ticket and table sales, execute silent auction, manage event logistics and vendor relationships, and support Committee in achieving successful gala event consistent with established goals and objectives.
Donor Relations: Develop and systematize comprehensive donor stewardship initiative; work collaboratively with NCM leadership to create donor strategies and multi-year strategic objectives; direct donor communications including updates, invitations, solicitations, acknowledgements, etc.
Fundraising Campaigns: Develop and implement multiple fundraising campaigns including creating solicitation strategies, identifying prospects, managing campaign details including printed solicitations, phone follow up, tours, events, etc.
Membership: Oversee the development and implementation of NCM membership programs and management of the database housing all membership and donor transaction activity. Develop strategies to mine database and move members up the donor ladder.
Supervise development personnel and oversee related responsibilities.
Other duties as required.

Qualifications

Requires Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 8 years demonstrated success in fundraising including securing major gifts and managing donor events.
Ability to plan strategically and build long-term relationships with donors along with excellent writing and interpersonal communication skills.
Experience in creating successful fundraising campaigns, cultivating prospects and building donor base.
Must enjoy working in a collaborative, fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.

Work Environment
The majority of work is performed in a museum environment with attendant noise level. Occasional evening and weekend work will be required.

To Apply
Please submit your resume and salary requirements along with a thoughtful cover letter that clearly describes how your skills and experience meet the qualifications of this position. Additionally, please be sure to explain your interest in pursuing or continuing your career in the non-profit sector. Email to careers@thinkplaycreate.org and reference “Director, Development” in the subject line.

Director, Finance and Administration

Department: Administration
Reports to: Executive Director
Supervises: Manager, Finance and Administration and Manager, Facilities
Type of position: Full-time, exempt

The Director of Finance and Administration primary duties will be to manage and support daily operations and administration, and to act as a strategic thought partner with the Executive Director (ED) during a time of significant organizational growth and development. The Director will be responsible for providing overall direction for the following functions: finance and accounting, human resources, administration, information technology, and facility operations. With guidance from the ED, the Director will work collaboratively with the senior leadership team, which includes the Directors of Marketing, Development, and Education & Exhibitions, to develop and implement effective systems in finance/accounting, operations, external relations, fundraising, and programs.

Key Responsibilities

Finance and Accounting

Monitor financial health and cash flow of the organization, developing and implementing strategies to enhance sustainability and growth. Track, analyze, and report on organizational performance.
Manage the annual budget process. Prepare the annual budget (approximately $3M), including operating and capital needs to support both short term and long term strategic goals. Work with the ED and senior leadership to identify priorities, key initiatives, and to design budgets based on historical information and programmatic needs.
Manage financial reporting. Ensure completion and distribution of daily, weekly, and monthly financial reports in a timely fashion. Prepare monthly summary for ED and Board. Assist department heads and staff in analyzing monthly performance and help identify opportunities to manage resources in accordance with performance. Reforecast budget and annual performance as necessary.
Plan, coordinate, and execute annual audit process and completion of 990 reports and filing.
Serve as primary staff liaison for the Finance Committee; coordinate all financial reports to the Board and related committees.
Participate and facilitate all financial aspects in the long range planning process for the Museum.
Provide support the Development department in processing donations and in grant management activities, including preparation of grant contracts and payment requests.
Review, upgrade, and implement an appropriate system of policies, internal controls, accounting standards, and procedures.
Act as primary liaison with all financial institutions.

Human Resources

Oversee the Human Resources function for the organization. This includes but is not limited to employment practices, performance management, compensation, benefits, compliance/reporting and employee relations.
Establish the performance goals, allocate resources, and assess policies for senior management.
Oversee the payroll function and ensure the maintenance of accurate payroll and personnel records.

Administration

Develop, establish, and direct execution of operating policies to support overall company policies and objectives.
Oversee risk management. Oversee all contracts, legal issues, insurance requirements.
Meet with vendors, monitor experience rates, negotiate rates. Ensure appropriate coverage.
Provide high-level administrative support for a diverse range of initiatives and special projects in support of the ED and senior management.

Information Technology (IT)

Oversee the Information Technology function. Ensure adequacy of resources and that staff are trained and able to utilize fully tools provided.
Responsible for information security and ensuring the integrity of the Museum’s systems.
Oversee and monitor the development of a strategic IT plan to support the long term growth of the organization.

Facility Operations

Oversee facilities management with duties to include monitoring building lease, maintaining inventory, and purchasing furniture and fixtures, and equipment and service contracts. Supervise administration of parking facility and management of maintenance commitment for adjacent city park.
Manage security of facilities and staff, including emergency preparedness. Ensure compliance with all applicable codes and regulations.

Education and Experience

Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science. MBA and/or CPA preferred.
A minimum of at least 8 years of increasing responsibility in related financial and/or administrative management. Experience in the field of philanthropy, public administration, or museum administration preferred.
Strong financial management and analysis skills, including the ability to interpret financial results.
Excellent analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
Demonstrated strong written/oral communication and interpersonal skills, and ability to work effectively with a wide array of constituencies (internal and external).
Ability to work with a high degree of autonomy, establish and accomplish priorities, oversee projects, and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
Excellent planning, coordinating and organizational skills required.
Ability to handle highly sensitive and confidential information with tact and discretion.
Excellent judgment and high level of initiative are critical.
Strong computer skills, including electronic research, word-processing, spreadsheet development and analysis, presentations, and web-site development and maintenance.
Strong database experience, including knowledge of accounting software such as Peachtree and/or QuickBooks.

Work Environment
The majority of work is performed in a museum environment with attendant noise level. Occasional evening and weekend work will be required.

To Apply
Please submit your resume and salary requirements along with a thoughtful cover letter that clearly describes how your skills and experience meet the qualifications of this position. Additionally, please be sure to explain your interest in pursuing or continuing your career in the non-profit sector. Email to hgreen@premieralliance.com and reference “Director, Finance & Administration” in the subject line. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE.

Director, Marketing and Communications

Department: Marketing
Reports to: Executive Director
Supervises: Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications; Manager, Event Services
Type of position: Full-time, exempt

The Director of Marketing and Communications will develop a world-class communications strategy for NCM, managing communications activities that promote, enhance, and protect the organization’s brand and reputation. The Director is responsible for planning, development, and implementation of all of the organization’s marketing strategies, marketing communications, public relations, and event services activities, both external and internal. The goal is to advance the organization’s position with relevant constituents, as well as to drive broader awareness and donor support for the organization. This individual will be an ambassador for the organization and will need to build relationships with the media. The position requires a hands-on, collaborative, flexible and motivational approach with the ability to oversee and execute multiple projects simultaneously while driving aggressive deadlines.

The Director position also requires creative and strategic thinking to exploit the new media of social and community networking. The identification and activation of social technologies and communities will build awareness for the organization and tap into the revenue generating potential of the online audience. The role is best suited for a high achiever with proven ability to contribute individually (through hands-on execution) as well as part of a results-focused department and senior management team.

Primary Relationships
The Director reports to the Executive Director and serves as a member of the senior management team. This position collaborates with the Board of Directors, Executive Director, and other staff in charting the direction of the organization, assuring its accountability to all constituencies, and ensuring its effective operation. Within the organization, the position has primary working relationships with the Executive Director, senior management team, staff of the marketing and event services team, and members of the exhibition and education team.

Key Responsibilities

Marketing, Communications, Public Relations and Event Services

Responsible for creating, implementing and measuring the success of:
- a comprehensive marketing, communications and public relations program that will enhance NCM’s image and position within the marketplace and with the general public, and facilitate internal and external communications;
- all marketing, communications and public relations activities and materials including publications, media relations, and member/guest/donor acquisition; and
- a robust facilities marketing and event services program designed to promote the institution’s mission and generate revenue to support key programs and operations.
Ensure articulation of NCM’s desired image and position, assure consistent communication of image and position throughout the organization, and assure communication of image and position to all constituencies, both internal and external. Coordinate the appearance of all print and electronic materials such as letterhead, use of logo, brochures, NCM’s website, e-news and other online communication.
Create and manage editorial program, including the design, production, and distribution of all publications.
Coordinate media interest in the organization and ensure regular contact with target media and appropriate response to media requests. Act as NCM representative with the media. Write and/or review/edit copy for various media which may include proposals, presentations, web, video and interactive media as defined by business needs.
Manage market research and visitor survey process. Monitor trends. Ensure that all data is analyzed and present results to senior management and relevant staff. Develop recommendations for Museum’s marketing and communications program based on results.

Planning and Budgeting

Responsible for the achievement of marketing/communications/public relations’ and event services’ mission, goals and financial objectives. Ensure that evaluation systems are in place related to these goals and objectives and report progress to the Executive Director and Board on a regular basis.
Develop short- and long-term plans and budgets for the marketing/communications/public relations program and its activities, monitor progress, assure adherence and evaluate performance.
Manage budget for the marketing department to maximize effectiveness of spending. Oversee creation of annual departmental budget and manage expenses to conform to budget.

Personnel and Management

Recruit, train, appraise, supervise, support, develop, promote, and guide qualified personnel, both paid and volunteer.
Supervise a team of five staff, including two direct reports.
Work collaboratively with members of other departments to ensure effective communication of the Museum’s message and programs.
Drive continual process improvements and implement best practices to manage projects efficiently.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, marketing or business related field
Minimum of 8 years experience in marketing communications, including at least three years of management; experience in an arts organization or non-profit is a plus. Experience at a senior level working with staff, Board members, and external is preferred.
Ability to work with contractors, vendors and agencies.
Successful project leadership experience in developing, managing and implementing multiple projects at the strategic level to achieve program goals.
Knowledge of current and evolving trends in marketing, communications and branding for cause-related and consumer disciplines.Ability to foster an environment of collaboration, creativity and professional growth.
Personal interest in the mission, principles and values of The New Children's Museum.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Demonstrate creative and critical thinking skills.
Strong business analytics, relationship management, strategy development, project management, problem solving and change management skills.
Professional and positive approach, self motivated, team player, dynamic, creative with the ability to work on own initiative.
Excellent communicator with ability to influence and persuade across all levels of the organization.
Exercise a high degree of tact and diplomacy.
Demonstrate strong oral and written communication skills including the ability to clearly present recommendations and ideas to summarize complex issues.
Business related computer skills including knowledge with PowerPoint, Excel and Word.

Work Environment
The majority of work is performed in a museum environment with attendant noise level. Occasional evening and weekend work will be required.

To Apply
Please submit your resume and salary requirements along with a thoughtful cover letter that clearly describes how your skills and experience meet the qualifications of this position. Additionally, please be sure to explain your interest in pursuing or continuing your career in the non-profit sector. Email to hgreen@premieralliance.com and reference “Director, Marketing & Communications” in the subject line. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE.

Executive Assistant

Department: Executive
Reports to: Executive Director
Type of position: Full time, Non-exempt

NCM seeks a talented, motivated professional to provide diversified administrative support to the Executive Director and other senior staff, while coordinating efforts between the Senior Staff, Board of Directors, and other staff members. Qualified candidates must be able to interact diplomatically and confidently with all levels of constituents including Museum guests, Board members, donors, and employees. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a high level of integrity, ability to manage sensitive and confidential information, strong business acumen and a commitment to representing the Executive Director and the Museum in a highly professional manner.

Key Responsibilities

Manage all communications of the Executive Director’s office, using independent judgment to determine issues requiring priority attention, with special sensitivity to the requirements of working with a volunteer Board of Directors.
Manage all incoming and outgoing electronic and print correspondence, independently respond to letters and general correspondence of a routine nature; compose correspondence, presentations and other documents on a wide variety of subjects requiring thorough knowledge of the institution and Executive Director.
Coordinate multiple internal and Board members’ schedules to set meetings.
Manage all aspects of meetings for Executive Director and Board, including: preparing agendas and other required materials, scheduling rooms, coordinating remote communication, ordering food, room and AV set-up, parking arrangements for meeting participants, greeting participants, taking minutes, providing follow up communications and other general support functions.
Coordinate Executive Director’s calendar and contacts database; screen telephone calls and where appropriate, refer to other staff members; meet and greet all appointments, and when needed provide VIP tours.
Plan and coordinate all travel arrangements.
Establish and maintain electronic and hard copy filing procedures; manage expense reports and track departmental budget.
Provide general office administrative support as needed for other members of senior staff: directors of marketing, development, and exhibitions/education.
Additional duties as required.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 5 years experience working in a non-profit organization including 3 years supporting executive level positions.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office suite including high-level competency in PowerPoint and Excel.
Self-starter able to independently prioritize and manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
Excellent organizational, verbal and written communication skills are required.
Critical thinker with attention to detail and ability to seek problem resolution independently.
Ability to interact with internal and external contacts at all levels with poise and diplomacy.
Due to the nature of the position, some weekend, evening and early morning hours will be required.
Writing samples are required.

Physical Demands
The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk, see and hear. The employee is required to stand, walk and lift or move up to 30–50 pounds. The employee must be able to verbally communicate in a concise manner.

Work Environment
The majority of work is performed in a museum environment with attendant noise level and requires observance of safe work practices, fire regulations, and avoidance of falls, trips, and similar office work hazards.