Mystic Seaport Museum is the nation’s leading maritime museum, dedicated to inspiring an enduring connection to America’s maritime heritage. As a steward of historic vessels, a center for research and education, and a vibrant cultural destination, the Museum plays a vital role in preserving and sharing the stories that shaped our nation.

We are seeking a strategic, relationship-driven Director of Planned Giving to help secure the Museum’s long-term financial sustainability. This is a unique opportunity to guide a legacy-focused fundraising program at an institution with a passionate donor community and a mission that resonates across generations.

Why This Role Matters

Planned giving is central to the Museum’s future. In this role, you will:

• Shape and expand a growing planned giving program
• Build meaningful, long-term relationships with donors who care deeply about preservation,      education, and history
• Influence the Museum’s financial trajectory for decades to come
• Enjoy the autonomy to innovate while collaborating with a supportive advancement      team

If you’re energized by connecting donors’ values with lasting impact, this role offers the chance to make a profound difference.

What You’ll Do

Build and Grow the Planned Giving Pipeline

• Manage a portfolio of 100–150 prospects and donors
• Identify, qualify, cultivate, and solicit planned giving commitments
• Develop thoughtful, individualized strategies to move prospects toward documented      gifts
• Partner with the major gifts team to integrate planned giving into donor engagement

Cultivate and Steward Legacy Donors

• Conduct personalized visits, calls, and correspondence
• Create compelling proposals that communicate impact and donor benefit
• Design recognition and stewardship programs that honor legacy donors

Lead Planned Giving Marketing and Education

• Implement a marketing strategy to promote planned giving opportunities
• Develop educational materials including brochures, newsletters, presentations, and      web content
• Host seminars, webinars, and donor education events on estate planning and      charitable giving

Serve as a Trusted Resource

• Build relationships with estate attorneys, financial advisors, and other      professional partners
• Provide expertise on planned giving vehicles and tax implications
• Stay current on tax law changes and industry best practices

What You Bring

Required

• Bachelor’s degree
• 4–7 years of experience in planned giving, major gifts, or related development work
• Experience cultivating or securing planned gifts (bequests, trusts, annuities, etc.)
• Strong understanding of planned giving vehicles and tax considerations
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex concepts clearly
• Experience managing a donor portfolio and meeting fundraising goals
• Proficiency with donor databases and Microsoft Office
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel regionally

Preferred

• Background in law, financial planning, accounting, or related field
• Experience in a cultural institution or museum setting
• CFRE certification or interest in pursuing it
• Appreciation for maritime history and preservation

Key Competencies

Strategic thinking • Exceptional listening • Donor-centered approach • Strong organizational skills • Ability to work independently and collaboratively • Cultural sensitivity • Passion for mission-driven work

How Success Will Be Measured

• Growth and  quality of the planned giving pipeline
• Documented planned gift commitments (typically $3–5M annually, aligned with donor      base and program maturity)
• Effectiveness of cultivation and stewardship
• Contribution to long-term fundraising goals

Work Environment & Benefits

This position offers flexible hybrid work arrangements, with regular on-site presence in Mystic, Connecticut for donor meetings, team collaboration, and Museum events. You’ll join a dedicated, mission-driven advancement team that values creativity, collaboration, and authentic donor relationships.

Mystic Seaport Museum offers:

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits
• Retirement plan with employer contributions
• Generous paid time off
• Unique cultural perks, including access to Museum programs and a historic      waterfront campus

Join Us

If you’re inspired by the idea of helping donors create lasting legacies—and you’re excited to shape the future of a nationally significant cultural institution—we’d love to hear from you.

Mystic Seaport Museum is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences.