How MAD prepared for the successful onboarding of its new Vice President of Development by assessing and strengthening its philanthropic efforts and team

Founded in 1956 in Manhattan, NY, the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) champions contemporary makers across creative fields, presenting artists, designers, and artisans who apply the highest level of ingenuity and skill to their work.

MAD engaged Development Guild in 2018 to serve as interim Vice President of Development. During a time of transition for the Museum, we conducted a comprehensive fundraising assessment of the development team, the fundraising function, and the prospect list, while also analyzing opportunities to reorganize not only the existing development team, but other staff members who held periphery fundraising responsibilities. In addition, we put processes and systems in place to ensure a seamless onboarding and transition for the newly-hired Vice President. By spending two days on-site each week, and providing a third remote day, Development Guild was able to quickly form strong, working relationships with the Board, Director, and development, marketing, events, and membership teams.

Development Guild was able to infuse energy into the development team, build confidence in the team members, and provide leadership, mentorship, and guidance during a transitional period for MAD. The Museum is now well-poised to grow its fundraising goals and with the guidance of the new VP, enter campaign planning mode.