President, Foundation of the Canadian Museum of History and Canadian War MuseumTHE OPPORTUNITYThe Board of Directors of the Foundation of the Canadian Museum of History and Canadian War Museum is seeking a strategic development leader and accomplished fundraiser to serve as the inaugural President of its newly established philanthropic foundation. This is a unique opportunity to shape and lead a national fundraising entity in support of the Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian War Museum, two of Canada's most significant cultural institutions.
Reporting to and working closely with the Foundation's Board of Directors, in close collaboration with the President and CEO of the Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian War Museum (CMH) and senior museum colleagues, the President of the Foundation of the Canadian Museum of History and Canadian War Museum (CMHCWM Foundation) will establish and lead the Foundation's fundraising strategy and operations. The museums are respected centres of museological excellence, recognized both nationally and internationally for their mandate to enhance Canadians' knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the events, experiences, people and objects that reflect and have shaped Canada's history and identity, while also fostering broader awareness of world history and cultures.
The President will provide strategic leadership to build a focused, high-impact, and sustainable philanthropic program aligned with the Museums' strategic priories. The new incumbent will demonstrate the knowledge, experience and executive abilities to put in place the governance, systems, and resources required to support long-term success. A strong relationship manager and collaborative leader, the President will foster a culture of accountability and shared purpose, enabling people to work effectively towards common goals.
Drawing on strong communication abilities, the President will play a central role in articulating the value and relevance of the Museums to donors, partners, sponsors and volunteers. Serving as the public face of the Foundation, the new incumbent will cultivate trusted relationships with donors, Board members, volunteer leaders, and partners across the country, while ensuring governance, compliance, and accountability that reflect best practices for foundations linked to Canadian Crown corporations.
As the inaugural President of the CMHCWM Foundation, the successful candidate will:
- Lead the Foundation team and the establishment of the Foundation's governance structure, policies, operations and systems.
- Drive the planning and launch of a comprehensive fundraising campaign to support the Museums' strategic priorities.
- Design a strong case for support for the Museums and their key programs with clear, distinct impact stories that will resonate with funders.
- Work in collaboration with the Museums' CEO on the internal and external profile of the Foundation.
- Position the Foundation as a trusted philanthropic partner, aligned with best practices and accountability standards.
This is an exciting opportunity for an inspiring development leader with a passion for Canadian history, identity and culture, and the ability to work effectively with a highly engaged Board and eventual staff team, to build, increase and enhance transformational philanthropic support for the Museums' highest-level strategic projects of national importance.
The CMHCWM Foundation office is located in Gatineau, Quebec and a hybrid work model can be considered, with occasional evening and weekend commitments. Some domestic and international travel is required, so a valid passport is essential. A competitive salary plus incentive compensation is offered, along with relocation support, if required.
KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESStrategic Leadership & Fundraising Development- Develop the Foundation's inaugural strategic and multi-year fundraising plan, aligned with the Museums' vision and priorities.
- Lead the further development and execution of a comprehensive fundraising campaign, including major gifts, annual giving, planned giving, fundraising events and sponsorships.
- Identify, cultivate, and solicit a portfolio of major donors, corporations, foundations, and government partners nationally and internationally.
- Establish measurable fundraising priorities and targets, ensuring sustainability and diversification of revenue streams.
- Implement a strategic and comprehensive fundraising program including prospect identification, cultivation, solicitation, and donor stewardship.
- Develop in collaboration with the Museums' management an updated recognition naming policy program and guidelines.
- Oversee development of compelling cases for support, donor communications, and stewardship strategies, aligned with Museums' communications policies
• Work in partnership with the CMH Marketing and Communications team to ensure integrated activities that enhance brand and promote a positive fundraising climate.
• Engage, leverage, and support the Board members and other volunteers in fundraising initiatives.
- Act as the official spokesperson of the Foundation, representing it at national and international philanthropic, business, and cultural events.
Governance, Compliance & Accountability- Steward the operating agreement (MOU) between the Foundation and the Museums, ensuring clarity of roles, responsibilities, in
