Career Center

The director of development works closely with the head of school and the board of trustees and supervises a small staff to provide leadership for the development program as it builds a strong culture of philanthropy throughout the school and global community. The goal of the director of development is to design programs of giving that attract the maximum gift support possible to the institution.

• Establish and execute forward-thinking development/ advancement and strategic programs that optimally grow the annual, major, and capital campaigns; legacy gifts; and planned giving.
• Oversee all aspects of the development program, including fundraising, leading the annual giving program, guiding the capital campaign, soliciting corporate and foundation proposals; creating a strong alumni association, and special development events.
• Identify, research, and spearhead the implementation of a diverse and multifaceted fundraising program to support the school’s strategic vision, cultivating a culture of giving and gratitude across all constituencies and socio-economic strata.

• Collaborate with the admissions office on PR initiatives and the marketing and communications office to create/produce fund raising-related communication materials to expand and enhance the school’s visibility and reputation.
• Identify corporate and foundation funding opportunities and help draft grant applications.
• Strengthen relationships with the school’s alumni and further develop alumni programming.
• Personally solicit major donors.
• Enhance existing relationships while building new relationships, systems, and programs that further tap into the generosity and resources of the community.

• Maintain a database of all contributors and provide development reports as required.
• Manage the development budget.
• Coordinate the school’s volunteerism efforts.
• Nurture and maintain a highly collaborative relationship with the head of school, the board chair, and individual board members, supporting them in all their fundraising responsibilities, and accompanying them on donor visits when appropriate.

• Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree preferred
• 5+ years of experience in the nonprofit sector and in fundraising
• Independent school experience preferred
• Proven success in directly soliciting and closing charitable gifts
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with all the school’s constituents while maintaining strict confidentiality
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strategic thinker with a “can-do” style
• Passionate about working with a wide range of individuals from diverse backgrounds
• Outstanding knowledge of fundraising data software and database management software
• Experience working with and motivating volunteers and staff members
• Familiarity with the local community