In April 2023, AMFA opened a newly reimagined and expanded facility designed by the renowned architecture firm Studio Gang. The building features state-of-the-art galleries, an art school, a performing arts theatre, an outdoor event area, and other spaces to host programming, events, and performances. The innovative Cultural Living Room, restaurant, store, and landscaped grounds position AMFA as a cultural hub for Little Rock and the Mid-South region.

In AMFA’s first year of operation, Museum visitation and donor and member engagement have exceeded all historic records and expectations. AMFA has positioned itself as an arts and cultural hub hosting hundreds of educational and inclusive social programs that attract a diverse community. In May 2023, Forbes called AMFA "America’s Most Inviting Art Museum," a headline that reflects the Museum’s commitment to the community and desire to lead as a model for innovation and 21st-century art museum practice.

The Deputy Director, Advancement and Strategy is a key member of the senior executive leadership team and is responsible for advancing the Museum’s fundraising program to support AMFA’s priorities and future aspirations. This leadership position oversees all aspects of the Development and Membership Departments through a developed and strategic plan focused on retention and growth.

With the Executive Director and CFO, this individual will develop and implement a strategy and plan that supports sustainable budget growth to meet AMFA’s long-term goals. Further, this individual seeks to optimally situate the Museum within the ecosystem of the state, region, and nation, underscoring AMFA as a vital contributor to the economy, quality of life, and education, and lifelong learning landscape.

The Deputy Director will report to and work closely with the Executive Director, and actively interface with donors, members of the AMFA Board of Trustees, Foundation Directors, and other stakeholders.

Core Responsibilities:

• In consultation with the Executive Director, develops and implements a strategic, achievable, and sustainable multi-year fundraising plan that increases the Museum’s overall budget by $3 to $5 million dollars.
• Reaches annual revenue goals through unrestricted giving and sponsorships for exhibitions and programming from major donors, individuals, corporations, grant support, membership, events, and other means
• Oversees the creation and implementation of a comprehensive advancement plan that encompasses all aspects of development including the growth of restricted and unrestricted giving, endowment support, planned giving, and other initiatives.
• Oversees the strategy for and successful execution of galas, benefits, and other fundraising events, with the support of the Executive Director and AMFA Board of Trustees, AMFA Foundation Directors, and volunteer chairs and committees.
• In an ever-competitive fundraising arena, leverages the specialness and uniqueness of AMFA to offer an attractive donor benefit and recognition plan.
• Develops and implements a balanced and compelling identification, cultivation, and stewardship plan that reaches donors within the state and nationally.
• Develops and oversees a strategic and thoughtful retention plan for all donors, including securing new and increased gifts from current donors.
• Manages special projects including strategic planning and other initiatives that raise the profile of AMFA.
• Works closely with the Executive Director, AMFA Board of Trustees and AMFA Foundation Directors to maximize efforts, including the alignment of the overall advancement of the institution with the growth of the Museum’s development program.
• Develops and can convey a deep understanding of AMFA’s mission, values, impact, programing, and priorities to effectively connect supporters to the Museum.
• Reinforce a culture of philanthropy among Museum staff and stakeholders.
• Supervises and leads a staff of 4- 6 Development professionals, AMFA Board of Trustees and others engaged with fundraising by fostering a supportive culture of teamwork and collaboration.
• With Communications Director, strategizes institutional messaging and supports production of materials to build donor and membership programs.

Candidate Profile and Attributes:

• Substantial development leadership skills, with five years minimum experience, preferably in a cultural or nonprofit organization
• Must be a proven fundraiser and have direct experience in securing significant support from major donors, individuals, corporations, foundations, and government agencies
• Superior strategic, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Proven success in developing and executing clear and effective fundraising plans
• First-hand experience working with board members and trustees and key donors, and cultivating, soliciting and stewarding donors
• A proven track record in meeting goals and building long-term organizational capacity
• Strong management skills, both strategic and operational
• A demonstrated ability to build, manage, motivate, and inspire staff to perform beyond expectations
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to translate AMFA’s mission and programs into fundraising initiatives that result in financial support
• A commitment to AMFA’s mission and diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Self-motivated with a high energy level and record of success
• Ability to manage a budget and understand financial reports
• Remain focused on maximizing revenue and raising the profile of the institution

Life in Little Rock

Central Arkansas offers a vibrant blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, providing residents with the best of both worlds. With its capital city of Little Rock nestled amid scenic landscapes, residents enjoy a rich cultural scene, diverse dining options, and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Boasting a welcoming community spirit and one of the country’s most affordable cost of living rates, Central Arkansas stands as an ideal destination for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

In the next few years, Little Rock will see major improvements and additions to its downtown. The City of Little Rock is pursuing a new master plan and cultural organizations, including AMFA, continue to serve the community. A new ArtSpace, designed to serve both visual and performing artists, is scheduled to break ground in 2024.

Downtown Little Rock’s arts and culture community is about to be as connected as ever. This is a critical time to center AMFA as a hub for artists and artmaking in this fast-developing landscape.