MoMA PS1 Manager, Individual Giving

About MoMA PS1 

MoMA PS1 champions how art and artists are at the intersection of the social, cultural, and political issues of their time. Providing audiences with the agency to ask questions, access to knowledge, and a forum for public debate, PS1 has offered insight into artists’ diverse worldviews for more than 45 years. Founded in 1976 by Alanna Heiss, the institution was a defining force in the alternative space movement in New York, transforming a 19th-century public schoolhouse in Long Island City into a site for artistic experimentation and creativity. 

With an annual budget of approximately $12M, PS1 has been a member of New York City’s Cultural Institutions Group (CIG) since 1982, and an affiliate of The Museum of Modern Art since 2000.

We recognize that a successful candidate will meet many of the requirements listed on this job description, but may not meet 100% of the qualifications. If much of this job description describes you, we encourage you to apply for this role.

Summary 

The Manager of Individual Giving is an essential member of MoMA PS1’s External Affairs team—made up of communications and development staff working holistically to engage donors, key constituents, and the general public with PS1 and our programming. 

Under the guidance of the Director of Development, the Manager will develop a detailed understanding of individual fundraising at PS1 and contribute in a significant way to cultivation, stewardship, and the development of programs to attract and retain new members to support the evolution of the organization.

The Manager will work collaboratively to create new pathways for individual donors, and to conceptualize a calendar of on-site and off-site donor events and programming. This position has direct interaction with existing and prospective donors and provides critical support to building and maintaining donor relationships. 

Supervision 

This position reports to the Director of Development and works closely with the External Affairs team. 

Responsibilities 

Work with the Director of Development to build and grow four core membership groups: Vision Fund ($25,000+/year), Greater New Yorkers ($10,000/year), Friends of MoMA PS1 ($2,500/year), and Court Square Circle ($750/year), creating a cohesive and robust community in each group.

Develop strategies to identify, solicit, and steward new supporters locally, nationally, and internationally, developing unique and targeted strategies for donor groups, exhibitions and programs support, and other giving initiatives. 

Work with the Manager of Special Events to lead the planning, conceptualization, and implementation of a robust schedule of unique and dynamic donor events for a diverse range of supporters that is responsive to both the PS1 program and the broader cultural landscape. 

Conduct individual donor prospect research, targeting donors with an interest in membership groups.

Oversee the communication strategy for each membership group, and prepare additional donor correspondence, as necessary.

Develop materials and slide decks for presentations and meetings, as necessary. 

Regularly collaborate with teams across PS1, including with Finance and Accounting, Curatorial, Visitor Engagement, Operations, and the Director’s Office. 

Support donor engagement, ensuring high quality experiences when visiting PS1. 

Work closely with peer departments within The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). 

Experience 

3-5 years work experience in development, focusing on donor groups or individual giving, preferably in a museum or arts non-profit. 

A strong understanding of the cultural landscape in New York City and globally, and demonstrated experience working within networks of influencers, artists, and cultural practitioners. 

Demonstrated strength in interpersonal communications, ability to communicate and work productively and collaboratively with a variety of stakeholders, internal and external. 

Proactive self-starter able to take initiative and lead on membership strategies and season patron programming.

Strong organizational ability, analytical skills, and attention to detail. 

Ability to work in MS Office, G Suite, Salesforce, and adaptability to new, emergent technologies used in support of events and development. 

Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and balance priorities, while working in a collaborative setting that involves shared decision-making and program responsibility. 

Exceptional judgment, professionalism, and discretion in handling confidential and sensitive situations and matters. 

Ability to participate in fundraising events during evenings and weekends. 

Passion for and understanding of PS1’s mission and program.