Director of Development, The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

Florida State University - Sarasota, FL
Florida State University seeks a Director of Development, The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art (“The Ringling”). The Director of Development will, in conjunction with the Senior Director of Development, will help lead and manage all fundraising operations for The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, which is a part of FSU’s nationally recognized Arts collective, which also includes the Colleges of Music, Fine Arts, and Motion Picture Arts; Opening Nights; and the FSU “Flying High” Circus. This role is responsible for securing private support at the $100,000 and up level while cultivating relationships with individual, foundation, and corporate donors across many different constituencies.

Florida State University (FSU) is one of the nation’s premier public research universities, distinguished by its academic excellence, affordability, and commitment to innovation. Founded in 1851 and located in Tallahassee, the capital of Florida, FSU offers nearly 300-degree programs across undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and professional levels. With more than 45,000 students representing all 67 Florida counties and over 130 countries, the university provides a rich academic community.

In 2000, Florida State University assumed governance of The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, establishing a strategic partnership that has significantly elevated both institutions. Located in Sarasota, The Ringling serves as the official State Art Museum of Florida and stands among the largest and most comprehensive university-affiliated arts centers in the nation. Its 66-acre bayfront campus features the Museum of Art, the Circus Museum, the Ca’ d’Zan historic mansion, and the Historic Asolo Theater.

This dynamic relationship has positioned The Ringling not only as a world-class cultural and educational destination, but also as a vital extension of FSU’s academic and philanthropic mission. It exemplifies the university’s commitment to public engagement, arts education, and community enrichment. Today, The Ringling is a cornerstone of Florida State’s arts programming and is part of the “Arts Excellence” priority within the university’s $1B+ comprehensive fundraising campaign. Welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, The Ringling offers a collaborative and inspiring environment grounded in core values of innovation, relevance, accountability, curiosity, collaboration, and integrity. It is a place where art, circus, architecture, and performance converge to inspire, educate, and entertain.

For more information, including core competencies and qualifications, please refer to the full prospectus.