Fair Lane, Home of Clara & Henry Ford
Director of Marketing & Development
Fair Lane, Home of Clara & Henry Ford, Dearborn, Michigan, United States, 48120
Overview
The Director of Marketing & Development plays a crucial role in the day-to-day marketing, fundraising and donor cultivation efforts at Henry Ford Estate, Fair Lane: Home of Clara & Henry Ford. This role oversees the Development & Marketing Manager (full-time) and Corporate Relations Manager (part-time), reports to the President & CEO, and is responsible for fundraising and marketing efforts to grow and sustain the organization. The Director will think critically, creatively, and proactively to cultivate relationships with donors, stakeholders, and prospective partners. This role will help lead the creation and implementation of a communications and marketing plan that aligns with Fair Lane’s 2027 planned opening. While this is a new role at Henry Ford Estate, it has been filled in different capacities before; the organization now focuses this role on marketing and development and on growing the team of professionals.
Responsibilities Percentages related to duties are estimates and may fluctuate based on the Estate’s needs.
Marketing Responsibilities (40%)
Develop and execute the marketing, communications, and branding plan in anticipation of Fair Lane’s 2027 opening, leveraging existing planning and partnerships.
Develop and implement robust content strategies across platforms (web, email, social, print, press) to increase visibility, engagement, and participation in programs and fundraisers.
Collaborate with staff and stakeholders to develop, review, and approve communications and marketing materials for donors, members, corporate partners, and other interested parties.
Generate resources and key communication procedures to equip staff, the board, and brand ambassadors with the means to advance Fair Lane’s mission.
Lead the growth and maintenance of Fair Lane’s online presence, including ongoing development of the website via Squarespace.
Support and utilize software and platforms to progress the marketing, communications, and branding plan (e.g., Bloomerang, JotForm, PayPal, TapKat, Mailchimp, Meta/Google/Microsoft Advertising, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube).
Direct and manage external marketing, advertising, and communications contractors while defining how these relationships fit into Fair Lane’s long-term strategy.
Serve as spokesperson when delegated by the President & CEO, including participation in press interviews, video/audio recordings, and presentations to donors, advertising partners, community groups, and other stakeholders.
Other duties and tasks as assigned by the President & CEO.
Development & Fundraising Responsibilities (40%)
Develop and execute a strategic, comprehensive fundraising plan to achieve financial objectives and support the mission, including major gifts, planned giving, corporate sponsorships, grants, and capital campaigns.
Broaden a diverse and sustainable donor base by prospecting and cultivating new donors, including individuals, corporations, foundations, and government agencies.
Design innovative and personalized campaigns and stewardship strategies to engage and maintain relationships with donors.
Set ambitious fundraising goals to raise funds efficiently and effectively.
Serve as a voice/face of Fair Lane at development- and fundraising-focused events, rentals, tours, and gatherings.
Support Fair Lane’s signature fundraising events and campaigns, including the annual sweepstakes fundraiser, capital and annual campaigns, and smaller cultivation events and appeals.
Monitor and analyze fundraising efforts and adjust strategies to optimize results.
Collaborate with the Development & Marketing Manager to ensure compliance with fundraising and donor management policies, including CRM and finance system reconciliation.
Other duties and tasks as assigned by the President & CEO.
Leadership & Administration Responsibilities (20%)
Lead, mentor, and develop two direct reports: a full-time Development & Marketing Manager and a part-time Corporate Relations Manager.
Oversee day-to-day marketing, communications, and development activities.
Forecast, develop, and maintain staffing plans and budgets for development, marketing, and communications efforts.
Collaborate with Henry Ford Estate’s other departments to maximize efficiency and impact of development and marketing efforts.
Support the creation and maintenance of Fair Lane’s visitor experience.
Coordinate with the Senior Director of Finance & Administration to monitor staffing, revenue goals, and expenditures during biweekly meetings.
As a Leadership Team member, participate in improving and aligning culture and strategies, including quarterly Board meetings.
Generate reports presenting marketing and development data for regular leadership meetings.
Identify opportunities for organizational improvements and lead their implementation.
Participate in special programs, events, projects, and activities as needed.
Other duties and tasks as assigned by the President & CEO.
Requirements Working Location & Schedule
This role will primarily be in-person, with some flexibility. Limited remote work is possible. Attendance at on-site events, tours, and meetings is required.
Some evening and weekend work is required. Flexible hours to accommodate events, tours, and meetings.
Expected schedule: Monday–Friday with mutually agreeable start times.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Passion for the mission of Fair Lane: Home of Clara and Henry Ford. Understanding of the cultural sector and the contributions of Clara and Henry Ford.
Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, business administration, or related field; applicable experience may substitute for the degree.
At least 7 years of professional marketing, communications, and/or fundraising experience.
At least 5 years of progressive leadership experience with team management and results.
Proven fundraising success, especially in securing major gifts and grants.
Strong knowledge of marketing and development principles, techniques, and best practices.
Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills for staff, guests, donors, and stakeholders.
Strong project management and strategic planning abilities with a hands-on, collaborative approach.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and integrity in decision-making.
Professional demeanor and comfort interacting with senior officials and high-net-worth individuals.
Ability to set and evaluate goals, resolve problems, and make decisions.
Resilience under pressure and adaptability in a growing organization.
Some familiarity with the automotive sector, specifically Ford Motor Company, a plus.
Collaborative, team-oriented mindset and willingness to contribute to Fair Lane’s culture.
Proficiency with marketing and development software/platforms (e.g., Bloomerang, Squarespace, Mailchimp, Canva, Meta, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Google/Microsoft Ads).
Proficiency with Outlook, Word, and Excel.
Physical Requirements N/A
Background & Reference Checks
All offers are contingent upon clear results of a thorough background check, including prior employment verification, reference checks, educational verifications, and criminal conviction reviews.
A criminal conviction will not automatically disqualify a candidate; a determination will be made based on the nature of the crime, time since conviction, and number of convictions.
Compensation This is a full-time, salary-exempt, year-round permanent position with benefits. Annual salary: $100,000. Not eligible for overtime pay. Full benefits include:
70% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employee and family.
HSA available with enrollment in a HDHP.
100% employer-paid life, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance.
100% employer-paid Employee Assistance Program.
403(b) plan with a 3% employer contribution and 3% match.
Generous paid time off: 21 days PTO, 12 paid holidays, 1 day VTO, paid parental leave after one year, paid bereavement leave.
Ford X-Plan Discount and professional development opportunities.
In-house perks including one free photo permit per year and other discounts.
Equal Employment Opportunity Henry Ford Estate is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
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Responsibilities Percentages related to duties are estimates and may fluctuate based on the Estate’s needs.
Marketing Responsibilities (40%)
Develop and execute the marketing, communications, and branding plan in anticipation of Fair Lane’s 2027 opening, leveraging existing planning and partnerships.
Develop and implement robust content strategies across platforms (web, email, social, print, press) to increase visibility, engagement, and participation in programs and fundraisers.
Collaborate with staff and stakeholders to develop, review, and approve communications and marketing materials for donors, members, corporate partners, and other interested parties.
Generate resources and key communication procedures to equip staff, the board, and brand ambassadors with the means to advance Fair Lane’s mission.
Lead the growth and maintenance of Fair Lane’s online presence, including ongoing development of the website via Squarespace.
Support and utilize software and platforms to progress the marketing, communications, and branding plan (e.g., Bloomerang, JotForm, PayPal, TapKat, Mailchimp, Meta/Google/Microsoft Advertising, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube).
Direct and manage external marketing, advertising, and communications contractors while defining how these relationships fit into Fair Lane’s long-term strategy.
Serve as spokesperson when delegated by the President & CEO, including participation in press interviews, video/audio recordings, and presentations to donors, advertising partners, community groups, and other stakeholders.
Other duties and tasks as assigned by the President & CEO.
Development & Fundraising Responsibilities (40%)
Develop and execute a strategic, comprehensive fundraising plan to achieve financial objectives and support the mission, including major gifts, planned giving, corporate sponsorships, grants, and capital campaigns.
Broaden a diverse and sustainable donor base by prospecting and cultivating new donors, including individuals, corporations, foundations, and government agencies.
Design innovative and personalized campaigns and stewardship strategies to engage and maintain relationships with donors.
Set ambitious fundraising goals to raise funds efficiently and effectively.
Serve as a voice/face of Fair Lane at development- and fundraising-focused events, rentals, tours, and gatherings.
Support Fair Lane’s signature fundraising events and campaigns, including the annual sweepstakes fundraiser, capital and annual campaigns, and smaller cultivation events and appeals.
Monitor and analyze fundraising efforts and adjust strategies to optimize results.
Collaborate with the Development & Marketing Manager to ensure compliance with fundraising and donor management policies, including CRM and finance system reconciliation.
Other duties and tasks as assigned by the President & CEO.
Leadership & Administration Responsibilities (20%)
Lead, mentor, and develop two direct reports: a full-time Development & Marketing Manager and a part-time Corporate Relations Manager.
Oversee day-to-day marketing, communications, and development activities.
Forecast, develop, and maintain staffing plans and budgets for development, marketing, and communications efforts.
Collaborate with Henry Ford Estate’s other departments to maximize efficiency and impact of development and marketing efforts.
Support the creation and maintenance of Fair Lane’s visitor experience.
Coordinate with the Senior Director of Finance & Administration to monitor staffing, revenue goals, and expenditures during biweekly meetings.
As a Leadership Team member, participate in improving and aligning culture and strategies, including quarterly Board meetings.
Generate reports presenting marketing and development data for regular leadership meetings.
Identify opportunities for organizational improvements and lead their implementation.
Participate in special programs, events, projects, and activities as needed.
Other duties and tasks as assigned by the President & CEO.
Requirements Working Location & Schedule
This role will primarily be in-person, with some flexibility. Limited remote work is possible. Attendance at on-site events, tours, and meetings is required.
Some evening and weekend work is required. Flexible hours to accommodate events, tours, and meetings.
Expected schedule: Monday–Friday with mutually agreeable start times.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Passion for the mission of Fair Lane: Home of Clara and Henry Ford. Understanding of the cultural sector and the contributions of Clara and Henry Ford.
Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, business administration, or related field; applicable experience may substitute for the degree.
At least 7 years of professional marketing, communications, and/or fundraising experience.
At least 5 years of progressive leadership experience with team management and results.
Proven fundraising success, especially in securing major gifts and grants.
Strong knowledge of marketing and development principles, techniques, and best practices.
Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills for staff, guests, donors, and stakeholders.
Strong project management and strategic planning abilities with a hands-on, collaborative approach.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and integrity in decision-making.
Professional demeanor and comfort interacting with senior officials and high-net-worth individuals.
Ability to set and evaluate goals, resolve problems, and make decisions.
Resilience under pressure and adaptability in a growing organization.
Some familiarity with the automotive sector, specifically Ford Motor Company, a plus.
Collaborative, team-oriented mindset and willingness to contribute to Fair Lane’s culture.
Proficiency with marketing and development software/platforms (e.g., Bloomerang, Squarespace, Mailchimp, Canva, Meta, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Google/Microsoft Ads).
Proficiency with Outlook, Word, and Excel.
Physical Requirements N/A
Background & Reference Checks
All offers are contingent upon clear results of a thorough background check, including prior employment verification, reference checks, educational verifications, and criminal conviction reviews.
A criminal conviction will not automatically disqualify a candidate; a determination will be made based on the nature of the crime, time since conviction, and number of convictions.
Compensation This is a full-time, salary-exempt, year-round permanent position with benefits. Annual salary: $100,000. Not eligible for overtime pay. Full benefits include:
70% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employee and family.
HSA available with enrollment in a HDHP.
100% employer-paid life, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance.
100% employer-paid Employee Assistance Program.
403(b) plan with a 3% employer contribution and 3% match.
Generous paid time off: 21 days PTO, 12 paid holidays, 1 day VTO, paid parental leave after one year, paid bereavement leave.
Ford X-Plan Discount and professional development opportunities.
In-house perks including one free photo permit per year and other discounts.
Equal Employment Opportunity Henry Ford Estate is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
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