About Des Moines Art Center
The Des Moines Art Center is a vibrant, AAM (American Association of Museums)-accredited institution located in the capital city of Iowa that welcomes over 270,000 visitors annually from across the country and around the globe. Its historic campus consists of three buildings designed by major architects of 20th-century - Eliel Saarinen, I. M. Pei, and Richard Meier – which are incorporated into the natural landscape of Greenwood Park.
The Art Center is home to one of the strongest collections of 20th- and 21st-century art in the region, and it hosts a series of ground-breaking exhibitions and lectures each year that feature artists known regionally, nationally, and internationally. The experimental art for which the Art Center cares is reflected in its creative offerings, including an innovative education program that prioritizes engagement and collaboration, an art school with studio classes for all ages, and the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park, situated on 4.4 acres in downtown Des Moines.
The Art Center is committed to the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion, which are incorporated into every facet of its mission and identity. Ensuring access to the appreciation and making of art has been a core tenet of the Art Center since its founding. The Art Center believes every voice belongs in contemporary art. By embracing critical and empathetic thinking with a spirit of openness, we strive to be a welcoming and equitable cultural resource for the region and beyond, and we are committed to uplifting the unique experiences and perspectives of every visitor and staff member.
For more information on the Arts Center, please visit here.
The Opportunity
Under the leadership of newly named John and Mary Pappajohn Director, Kelly Baum, the Art Center is looking to the future as they continue to build upon a strong foundation of work. Coming off a successful 75th Anniversary campaign, the Senior Director of Development will be responsible for exploring creative and innovative ways of diversifying and identifying new revenue streams. As the principal fundraising strategist, the Senior Director will create, develop, and execute a development plan which will include grants, foundation giving, philanthropic support, and major gifts.
The Senior Director works in close consultation with the John and Mary Pappajohn Director and serves as a key member of the Art Center’s Leadership Team. They will be a collaborative and engaging leader able to partner and build relationships both internally at the Art Center and externally within the greater Des Moines community, the region, and the nation. With a keen focus on engaging with various constituent groups, both at the local and national level, the Senior Director will cultivate and steward relationships with new and existing supporters and donors.
In addition, the Senior Director will be able to leverage a high-performing Development Team, an engaged Board of Directors, and an experienced Senior Leadership Team to explore creative and innovative revenue streams. This role will be pivotal in driving growth and realizing an ambitious plan for the future, especially at this moment, as the Art Center embarks on a new five-year strategic plan.
With the support of the welcoming community that is Des Moines, the Senior Director will play an integral role in stewarding the Art Center towards continued impact and success.
Contact
Koya Partners, the executive search firm that specializes in mission-driven search, has been exclusively retained for this engagement. Alicia Salerno and Tatyana James of Koya Partners have been exclusively retained for this search. Please submit a compelling cover letter and resume by filling out our Talent Profile here.
Koya Partners is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals living with disabilities. If you are a qualified individual living with a disability and need assistance expressing interest online, please email NonprofitSearchOps@divsearch.com. If you are selected for an interview, you will receive additional information regarding how to request an accommodation for the interview process.
The Art Center is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from people of color, persons with disabilities, women, and LGBTQ+ applicants.