Senior Director of Development
Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute (GMGI) is a world-class marine research and educational non-profit organization located in the historic seaport city of Gloucester, Massachusetts. At GMGI, science and education converge to solve the most urgent challenges of our time from safeguarding the health of our oceans and fisheries to pioneering marine biomedical discoveries that advance human health.
Our vision is bold, our momentum is strong, and our work is transforming science and community through innovation.
GMGI seeks a Senior Director of Development to shape and lead a dynamic fundraising strategy during a period of ambitious growth. This is a rare chance to play a pivotal role in fueling groundbreaking science and a transformative biotech education academy, while engaging with an extraordinary community of supporters.
As the strategic architect of GMGI's development efforts, the Senior Director will :
- Build and drive fundraising campaigns that sustain and expand GMGI's cutting-edge research and education programs.
- Build authentic relationships with donors, foundations, and partners who share our vision.
- Lead a talented and growing team, setting bold goals and delivering results.
- Serve as a key member of GMGI's senior leadership team, helping steer the institute into its next era of impact.
The ideal candidate is a creative, inspiring, and proactive leader with strategic vision, philanthropic expertise, and operational excellence. The individual is energized by fast-growing, dynamic organizations where hands-on contributions make a real difference. Importantly, this individual will bring a deep commitment to GMGI's mission and thrive in an entrepreneurial environment.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy aligned with GMGI's mission and long-term goals.Lead major gifts, annual giving, planned giving, capital campaigns, and special projects.Cultivate and steward donor relationships from initial engagement to long-term partnership and investment.Partner with the Board of Directors and Development Committee on growth initiatives.Oversee all aspects of corporate, foundation, and business philanthropy, including grant applications and reporting.Represent GMGI at donor gatherings, community events, and board meetings.Communications & Engagement
Collaborate with the Communications team to ensure consistent, compelling messaging across print and digital media and events.Elevate GMGI's story to engage new audiences and inspire philanthropic investment.Operations & Team Development
Lead, mentor, and expand a dedicated development team.Partner with Finance to build and manage budgets.Strengthen operational systems, including donor database management and technology-driven efficiencies.Foster a culture of collaboration and innovation across the development and leadership teams.Qualifications
Bachelor's degree required; background in science is a plus.Minimum of 10 years' progressive development experience with a proven track record in major gifts.Experience in science-focused fundraising preferred.Strong networks within Boston's North Shore and / or the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors are highly valuable.Demonstrated success in setting strategy, building relationships, and achieving ambitious fundraising goals.Personal Attributes
Passion for mission-driven science and education.Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with ease in both formal presentations and informal relationship building.Entrepreneurial mindset proactive, resourceful, and results-oriented.Comfortable engaging with diverse stakeholders including donors, board members, scientists, and community partners.