Director of Resource Development

The Archaeological Research Institute (ARI) is seeking a dynamic and relationship-driven Director of Resource Development to lead fundraising efforts, secure grants and major gifts, and build strategic donor partnerships. This role is integral to ensuring ARI’s financial sustainability by crafting innovative fundraising strategies, planning impactful events, and engaging supporters who share a passion for history and preservation. If you excel at connecting people to meaningful causes and driving resources to fuel transformative work, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact.

Uncover the past. Build the future. Inspire generosity.

The Archaeological Research Institute (ARI)is on a mission to bring history to life—excavating ancient sites, preserving cultural heritage, and engaging the community through hands-on discovery.

We’re searching for a passionate, strategic, and relationship-driven Director of Resource Development to lead ARI’s fundraising and donor engagement efforts, secure grants, major gifts, corporate sponsorships, and event funding. Working closely with leadership and the Board, this role will build relationships with donors and partners to ensure ARI’s long-term financial sustainability. The ideal candidate will embrace ARI’s values of exploration, preservation, research, and education while fostering a positive and mission-driven community. If you love connecting people to meaningful causes, securing funding to drive real change, and crafting innovative fundraising strategies, this role is for you!

What You’ll Do:

• Lead Fundraising Strategy – Secure grants, major gifts, sponsorships, and donations to fuel ARI’s mission.
• Inspire & Engage Donors – Build lasting relationships with supporters who share our passion for history and preservation.
• Drive Grant & Sponsorship Success – Research, write, and manage grants while developing corporate partnerships.
• Create Memorable Fundraising Events – Plan and execute events that bring people closer to ARI’s work.
• Expand Membership & Revenue Streams – Strengthen donor programs, sponsorship opportunities, and new funding models.
• Partner with Leadership & the Board – Work together to elevate ARI’s fundraising efforts and long-term sustainability.

What You Bring:

• 5+ years of nonprofit fundraising experience, with a proven track record of securing major gifts, grants, and sponsorships.
• Bachelor's degree in Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• A natural relationship-builder who thrives on connecting with donors, partners, and community members.
• Strong storytelling and communication skills to inspire support.
• Experience with CRM and membership platforms, including data management and leveraging technology to drive engagement and fundraising.
• Passion for history, archaeology, and community engagement.

Why Join ARI?

Competitive Salary: $60,000+ bonus opportunity

Great Benefits:

• 4 weeks of vacation + holidays
• Paid Thanksgiving & Christmas weeks off
• 3% IRA match
• 80/20 health coverage

Exciting Work Environment: Get hands-on with archaeology, connect with history, and be part of a mission-driven team that makes a real impact.

Location: Lawrenceburg, IN | Occasional travel for events & donor meetings

Apply Now! Send your resume, cover letter, and three references to HumanResources@exploreARI.org