Director of Development & Engagement

Director of Development & Engagement

Employment Status
:
Full-Time, Salary | Exempt

Location
:
On-site | In-Person

Department
:
Development Reports To
:
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

We value a diverse workforce and inclusive culture. OCM encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, marital status, disability, or veteran status.

Mission: To engage the imagination and create excitement about learning.

Who We Are: Omaha Children’s Museum (OCM) is a mission-driven nonprofit that has enriched the lives of children for more than 45 years. We believe that behind every great organization are great people, and we are committed to building a team that reflects the passion, creativity, and diversity of the community we serve. We welcome and encourage all qualified applicants who share our vision and want to make a meaningful impact through our mission.

OCM is a vibrant, hands‑on environment created to spark curiosity and inspire creativity through engaging exhibits, workshops, and events. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, educational, and joyful space that supports every child’s learning and growth. Our mission extends far beyond our walls—we strive to be a trusted community hub for early childhood development, partnering with childcare providers, teens, young parents, and early childhood advocates to support and strengthen the families of our region.

Position Summary: The Director of Development & Engagement is a pivotal leadership role responsible for advancing OCM’s mission through strategic fundraising, major gift development, and meaningful donor relationship cultivation. The ideal candidate brings extensive experience in philanthropy, relationship management, and nonprofit leadership, along with a passion for connecting people to purpose.

As a key member of the leadership team, this position reports directly to the CEO and plays an active role in shaping, guiding, and implementing strategic initiatives that support OCM’s long‑term vision. This is a salaried, director‑level role with a work schedule that includes time inside the Museum, off‑site engagement for fundraising, and opportunities for remote work.

• Develop and implement a strategic plan to grow contributed revenue and drive efforts to secure major gifts.
• Provide oversight and ensure the continued success of established grant‑funded access programs, including the Welcome Fund, Partner Schools, and Specialized Programs, maintaining alignment with the Museum’s mission and goals.
• Partner with and support the CEO, Board of Directors, and other key staff to advance fundraising goals and inspire participation.
• Establish and monitor fundraising goals, metrics, and performance, providing regular reports to the CEO and senior leadership.

• Elevate the Museum’s profile and reputation among donors, stakeholders, and the community.
• Be an active, visible presence at community events, fostering relationships that enhance the Museum’s impact.

• Collaborate with the Rainbow Connectors Guild to align their efforts with the Museum’s development plans.
• Work cross‑departmentally to integrate strategies for direct mail, digital campaigns, corporate sponsor ships, planned giving, and special events.
• Work with museum leadership to select and implement a new nonprofit CRM with a fundraising management platform.

• Foster a culture of giving among staff and Board members, equipping them to serve as effective ambassadors for the Museum.
• Inspire and build a high‑performing development team.

• Oversee donor management systems, ensuring accurate tracking, stewardship of contributions, and analysis to identify opportunities for increased engagement and revenue.
• Manage communication with external museum stakeholders, working closely with the CEO.
• Research philanthropic trends and suggest innovative strategies to strengthen fundraising efforts.
• Prepare and present routine reports and development metrics to the CEO and senior leadership.
• Work…