Director, Prospect Research & Portfolio Strategy

American Museum of Natural History; New York (NY); On-site; USD 140,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Extensive benefits package

Job summary

The American Museum of Natural History is seeking a strategic, analytically rigorous Director, Research & Prospect Management to lead research, prospect management, and portfolio strategy in support of the Advancement team’s fundraising priorities.

You will oversee prospect research methodologies, narrative donor profiles, and data-informed decision making while collaborating across Advancement and with Museum leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.
• 10+ years of professional experience in prospect research and portfolio management in a complex nonprofit or cultural institution.
• Minimum of 4 years of management experience leading a team.
• Experience using financial databases, reviewing 990s, and producing high-quality research profiles.
• Familiarity with Raiser's Edge NXT and wealth screening tools (iWave, LexisNexis, RelSci, or similar).
• Strong writing skills with the ability to synthesize complex information into clear, actionable research.
• Genuine affinity for the natural world and ability to engage authentically with the Museum's research and exhibitions.

Responsibilities

• Develop prospect research methodologies, standards, and best practices to support fundraising priorities.
• Produce narrative profiles on donors and prospects using financial databases and filings.
• Provide analysis and recommendations to guide leadership decisions.
• Monitor news and conduct reputational research on individuals and organizations connected to fundraising.
• Lead proactive prospect identification and pipeline development across Advancement.
• Oversee portfolio strategy, moves management, and data-related processes.
• Manage and develop a two-direct-report team and partner with cross-functional colleagues.

Skills

Prospect research

Portfolio management

Data analysis

Strong writing

Stakeholder collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in relevant field

Tools

Raiser's Edge NXT

Wealth screening tools

LexisNexis

iWave

Job description

The American Museum of Natural History is seeking a strategic, analytically rigorous Director, Research & Prospect Management to lead research, prospect management, and portfolio strategy in support of the Advancement team’s fundraising priorities.

You will oversee prospect research methodologies, narrative donor profiles, and data-informed decision making while collaborating across Advancement and with Museum leadership.