Manager of Major Gifts & Sponsorships

Position Description

Updated May 29, 2026

Title: Manager of Major Gifts & Sponsorships

Division: Advancement

Reports to: Vice President for Advancement

Position Status: Full-time; Exempt

Salary Range/Pay Rate: $65,000 - $75,000/year

Whether igniting a passion for the study of the past, empowering an interest in civic engagement, or providing an introduction to the Commonwealth, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture offers meaningful experiences for all. Whatever the role, your work here helps bring Virginia's story-past, present, and future-to life.

If you are curious, creative, and passionate about preserving and sharing Virginia history, your next chapter starts now!

Position Summary:

The Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) seeks a qualified candidate for the position of Manager of Major Gifts & Sponsorships, who has an authentic interest in the mission and work of the VMHC. The Manager of Major Gifts & Sponsorships is responsible for securing philanthropic investments of

$10,000 and above from individuals and corporations. This role manages a portfolio of 75–100 prospective donors annually, with clearly defined visit, solicitation, and closure goals that are aligned with institutional priorities and established in coordination with the Vice President for Advancement and the President & CEO. The position leads major gifts activity and sponsorship efforts in support of VMHC's strategic initiatives.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Manages a dynamic portfolio of 75–100 individual and corporate major gift prospects, executing cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies


• Achieves annual visit, solicitation, and revenue goals established in coordination with Advancement leadership


• Leads individual major gifts program for gifts in the $10,000–$100,000 range


• Oversees corporate and individual sponsorships supporting exhibitions, programs, publications, and institutional priorities, ensuring fulfillment of recognition and benefits


• Supports special fundraising initiatives, including Civics Education efforts


• Partners with the Sr. Manager of Membership & Annual Giving to strengthen and grow the Corporate Partner program


• Coordinates with the Marketing division to ensure accurate and timely sponsor recognition across all public-facing materials


• Engages and cultivates key advocates and stakeholders to advance individual and corporate relationships statewide


• Supports the Vice President for Advancement, President & CEO, and volunteer leadership in

• donor strategy and engagement


• Performs other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Necessary:

• Strong written and verbal communications


• Best practice in moves management

• Reporting in Tessitura and other prospect reporting and goal setting systems

Education & Experience Requirements:

• Bacholars in history, museum studies, or related subject preferred


• Major gift experience required

Notes & Special Requirements:

• Medical, leave, wellness and retirement benefits offered in accordance with company policy.

Application:

• If interested in this job opportunity, please apply and upload your cover letter and resume to https://virginiahistory.isolvedhire.com/jobsearch/?job_board_classification=Job_Opportunities.

Founded in 1831 as the Virginia Historical Society, the VMHC, a private, non-profit organization, is the oldest museum and cultural organization in Virginia, and one of the oldest and most distinguished history organizations in the United States. The museum cares for a renowned collection of more than nine million items representing the far-reaching story of Virginia.

The Virginia Historical Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer.