The Penn Museum is a globally renowned institution dedicated to anthropological and archaeological research and education. With a collection exceeding one million artifacts, it serves as both a research powerhouse and a hub for immersive experiences that reveal the human journey across time and space. As a vital cultural institution, the Museum attracts over 180,000 visitors annually, offering a diverse array of onsite and virtual programs that captivate audiences from the local community to the global stage.

Its ongoing renovation efforts, exemplified by the recent transformation of signature galleries like the Sphinx Gallery and the Middle East Galleries, underscore its commitment to preserving the past while embracing the future. By cultivating dynamic engagement and fostering a deeper understanding of humanity’s collective heritage, the Penn Museum continues to shape narratives that transcend geographical and temporal boundaries.

The Penn Museum respectfully acknowledges that it is situated on Lenapehoking, the ancestral and spiritual homeland of the Unami Lenape.

The Opportunity

The Director of Development for Development and Alumni Relations is an exceptional opportunity to drive transformative growth and ensure the Penn Museum’s enduring relevance in a rapidly evolving landscape. While leading a comprehensive fundraising program, the Director will leverage their expertise in advancement to develop partnerships with the larger Penn community as well as build and cultivate a pipeline of prospective donors for sustained philanthropic support.

Collaborating closely with the Museum Director and University Development and Alumni Relations, the Director will spearhead major campaigns, such as the ambitious renovation of the Egyptian Wing, while nurturing a culture of philanthropy that extends across diverse constituencies. By providing strategic leadership and mentorship to a dedicated team of development professionals, the Director will play a pivotal role in advancing institutional priorities and sustaining the Museum’s legacy of excellence dating back to 1887.

Ideal candidates will possess a strategic mindset, exemplary communication skills, and a passion for making a tangible impact on the growth and vitality of one of the world’s foremost cultural institutions.