Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego: Chief Development OfficerDepartment: DevelopmentReports to: Chief Executive OfficerEmployee Status: Full-Time, ExemptPrimary Work Location: La JollaSalary Range: $163,091 - $171,675Apply By: COB, November 24th, 2025JOB SUMMARY: The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) seeks a visionary and strategic Chief Development Officer (CDO) to lead the Museums integrated fundraising, marketing communications, and external relations efforts. As a key member of the executive leadership team, the CDO oversees the Development department, which unites Development and Marketing Communications under a shared vision for institutional growth.The Development department generates approximately 50 percent of the total budget in contributed revenue annually. In partnership with the CEO, COO/CFO, and Board of Trustees, the CDO provides leadership for the planning and execution of fundraising and marketing communications initiatives that strengthen MCASDs philanthropic base, advance its reputation, and ensure long-term financial sustainability.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:Strategic Leadership and VisionProvide strategic leadership and direction for all areas of MCASDs Development function, ensuring cohesive planning and execution across fundraising, marketing communications, and external relationsPartner with the CEO and COO/CFO to align fundraising and marketing communications strategies with institutional goalsServe as a thought leader representing MCASDs mission and priorities across philanthropic, corporate, and community networksFundraising and External RelationsLead all aspects of fundraising, including individual giving, institutional giving, membership, planned giving, and special eventsPersonally cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors and strategic partners, deepening relationships that expand MCASDs base of supportCollaborate with the Board of Trustees and Development Committee to strengthen philanthropic engagement and board participationActively engage in cultural and civic sectors as an ambassador for the Museum, cultivating relationships with the community, business, and government leaders to enhance visibility and partnershipsEnsure transparent communication with leadership and trustees about fundraising goals, progress, and outcomesMarketing CommunicationsOversee Marketing Communications to enhance MCASDs visibility, reputation, and audience engagementPartner with the Director, Marketing Communications, to ensure alignment of brand strategy and messaging with institutional prioritiesEnsure integrated planning across Marketing Communications and Development to advance both earned and contributed revenueLeadership and Team DevelopmentManage and mentor the Director, Development; Director, Marketing Communications, and Director, Special EventsPromote a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team culture focused on excellence and shared goalsSet departmental goals, budgets, and KPIs aligned with institutional strategyOtherSupport the mission and vision of the museum throughout performance of duties. Work additional hours including some weekends and/or after regular business hours as needed. Follow policies and procedures to ensure a safe work environmentOther duties as assignedKNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE: Proven executive-level experience leading integrated development or external relations functions within a museum, cultural, or nonprofit organization. Demonstrated success in strategic planning, major gift fundraising, data-driven decision-making, revenue growth, team leadership, and management capability. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage donors, board members, community leaders, and build successful cross-departmental relationships with stakeholders. Strong understanding of how marketing communications intersects with philanthropy. Bachelors degree and 10 years progressively responsible related experience or equivalent education and experience. Advanced degree preferred.OUR WORK CULTURE: MCASD provides employees with a collaborative work culture where they can combine both their love and support of the arts and work in an enriching and diverse environment while further developing their specific professional knowledge, skills, and abilities.ABOUT MCASD: It is an exciting time to join MCASD! Our La Jolla campus re-opened in April 2022 after a five-year expansion effort that doubled the buildings overall size. We are positioned to be a cultural beacon as the regions foremost forum devoted to the exploration and presentation of the art of our time. From the coastal community of its La Jolla flagship building, MCASD provides an unprecedented variety of exhibition spaces and experiences for the community, showcasing an internationally recognized collection and a dynamic schedule of exhibitions and public programs.BACKGROUND CHECKS AND LICENSING: Professional references, criminal background checks, education check, credit check, and DMV check.EOE STATEMENT: MCASD prohibits discrimination and harassment against individuals based on race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, marital status, age, disability, pregnancy, reproductive health decisions, medical condition, covered veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.Powered by JazzHRcqkS3ZwOlh