St. Luke’s School seeks an experienced fundraising professional to serve as the school’s next Director of Development, assuming the role by July 2025. The successful candidate will be an engaging, enthusiastic strategic leader who connects authentically with all constituencies and quickly becomes a presence in the school community. Reporting to the Head of School, this position serves as leader of all philanthropic activities, including annual giving, alumni and parent relations, capital campaign planning and execution, and major gift cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
The Director of Development acts as a strategic thought partner for the Head of School and Board of Trustees, collaborates with the Marketing and Communications team, serves on the Head’s External Affairs Team, and works closely with colleagues as a member of the Senior Leadership Team. Compelling candidates will demonstrate experience leading effective development teams with proven fundraising results.
Primary Job Responsibilities:
Enhancing the school’s culture of philanthropy through active constituent engagement and participation in the school’s various giving programs.
Overseeing all aspects of the development program, including annual giving, capital campaign, major gift solicitation, special events, and community relations.
Working collaboratively with the Head of School, the Board’s Development Committee, and the Board of Trustees to develop and implement fundraising strategy;
Manage a portfolio of major donors and partner with the Head of School and key Board members on major gift solicitations and key annual fund solicitations;
Serving as an active and engaged member of the Senior Leadership Team and External Affairs Team
In partnership with the Director of Marketing and Communications, developing a compelling case for philanthropic support by creating complimentary print and digital materials for prospects;
Strengthening the relationship with St. Luke’s alumni, ensuring that they are engaged and connected with their alma mater;
Overseeing the fundraising database and utilizing data to improve fundraising programs and cross-departmental processes;
Managing the development budget;
Lead a development team of 5, providing strategic direction and mentorship.
Key Skills & Qualities
10+ years of fundraising experience. Independent school experience, along with knowledge and understanding of suburban Fairfield, CT, are preferred.
Deep grounding in all aspects of development work including annual giving, capital campaigns, major gifts, prospect research, alumni relations, communications, and special events.
An abiding sense of humor.
Interest in serving as an engaging, involved leader in an exciting and busy school community where efforts are made to know all students and their families.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability and desire to connect with a broad array of school constituents.
Extensive organizational skills with experience in working independently, while also understanding the importance of working collaboratively with colleagues in other departments.
Demonstrated ability to manage and develop staff. Provide clear, actionable and timely feedback through mentorship and support.
Respect for the importance of confidentiality.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to adopt new technology.
A commitment to equitable fundraising practices.
Experience working with and motivating volunteers.
Authentic enthusiasm and a positive spirit.
To Apply
We have partnered with Carney Sandoe search firm for this role.
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to contact the consultants listed below in confidence.
Candidates will ultimately need to submit the following materials as separate PDF documents:
A cover letter expressing their interest in this particular position;
A current résumé;
A list of five professional references with name, relationship, phone number, and email address of each (references will not be contacted without the candidate’s permission)
St. Luke’s School is an equal opportunity employer. St. Luke’s School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other basis prohibited by law with regard to hiring, terms and conditions of employment or educational programs. We strive to provide a welcoming educational environment where the value and dignity of every member is respected.
Located in New Canaan, Connecticut, St. Luke’s School, a secular (non-religious), college-preparatory day school serving grades 5 through 12 attracts families from over 35 towns throughout Connecticut and New York. A combination of challenging academics and truly exceptional community support distinguishes St. Luke’s and encourages our students to go above and beyond their own expectations. St. Luke’s offers an inclusive environment where differences in race, culture, and personal beliefs are embraced as assets that enhance education. St. Luke’s prides itself on being a forward-thinking school where students hone their own distinct leadership skills by developing a design mindset, an inclusive ethos, a global perspective, and a service orientation.