ICA Director of Development - College of Fine Arts

About the role

The College of Fine Arts at Carnegie Mellon University is a vibrant community of artists and designers who challenge conventions and seek new forms of expression. Through our five schools—Architecture, Art, Design, Drama and Music—and interdisciplinary programs and institutes, including BXA Intercollege Degree Programs, the STUDIO for Creative Inquiry and Institute for Contemporary Art Pittsburgh, we foster an environment where bold thinking and unbridled creativity flourish. In anticipation of the early 2028 opening of ICA Pittsburgh’s permanent home in Richard King Mellon Hall, Carnegie Mellon University is seeking an ICA Pittsburgh Director of Development. The Director of Development will be primarily responsible for designing, implementing and growing a comprehensive fundraising program to support the museum’s expanded exhibitions, programs and operations. As the inaugural development leader focused on the ICA, the Director of Development is a member of the College of Fine Arts Advancement team, works in close partnership with the ICA Pittsburgh Director, ICA staff, and with colleagues across University Advancement to build philanthropic support for exhibitions, public programs, educational initiatives, and strategic priorities. The Director of Development will establish the museum's philanthropic identity by building fundraising strategies, systems, and donor engagement programs that position ICA Pittsburgh for long-term success and expand its network of regional and national supporters. This is a highly collaborative position requiring an entrepreneurial fundraiser who enjoys building new programs, cultivating meaningful donor relationships, and working across academic, artistic, and community partners. Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work. Location: Pittsburgh, PA. Job Function: Major Gifts. Position Type: Staff – Regular Full Time.

Responsibilities

• Developing and executing a comprehensive fundraising program designed to generate $500,000+ in annual contributed revenue while building endowment support for the museum's long-term sustainability.
• Designing and overseeing the ICA annual fund in collaboration with the University Advancement Annual Giving team.
• Managing a portfolio of major gift prospects and donors through qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Representing and advocating for ICA Pittsburgh across University Advancement and partner on major gift opportunities.
• Partnering with the College of Fine Arts Associate Director of Institutional Partnerships and University Advancement to secure foundation and corporate support.
• Leading