Director of Development

Nature and Scope of Job
The Director of Development is a key member of the Forward Facing Leadership Team, responsible for creating and executing a strategic development plan that aligns with Sea Crest School’s mission and culture. This role oversees all aspects of fundraising, donor relations, grant writing, and community outreach, while also managing development-focused messaging, including social media. The Director of Development works closely with the Head of School and Director of Marketing and Communications to support school events and ensure cohesive messaging.

FLSA Status
Full-time, Exempt

Line of Authority
Reports directly to the Head of School (HOS).

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

1. Serve as an advocate for the school’s mission, acting as a highly visible and positive ambassador to all constituencies.
2. Collaborate with the Head of School (HOS) to develop and implement long- and short-term fundraising strategies.
3. Lead the creation and execution of the school’s annual development plan, including fundraising campaigns, capital campaigns, and planned giving initiatives.
4. Provide timely and transparent updates on development activities to the HOS and Board of Trustees.
5. Manage the advancement calendar, ensuring all development activities align with broader institutional goals.

Fundraising and Donor Relations

1. Oversee key fundraising efforts, including the Annual Fund, Ginger Girvin Run for Flexible Tuition, the Dream Event (spring auction), major giving, endowments, and special events.
2. Cultivate and steward relationships with major donors, foundations, and corporations. Lead all stages of the donor lifecycle: identification, cultivation, solicitation, recognition, and stewardship.
3. Write compelling grant applications and reports to secure foundation and corporate support.
4. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations related to fundraising.
5. Maintain the school’s development database (Raiser’s Edge NXT), track donations, and generate acknowledgment letters.

Collaboration and Reporting

1. Work closely with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to align the development budget with the school’s financial plan.
2. Prepare and present development progress reports to the HOS and Board of Trustees.
3. Serve on committees and take on special projects as assigned.
4. Actively engage with the school’s community, maintaining close relationships with students, families, alumni, and faculty to inform development efforts.

Skills and Competencies

1. Deep understanding of institutional advancement in independent schools, with a proven track record in fundraising.
2. Strong organizational, time management, and multitasking skills to balance multiple priorities.
3. Demonstrated success in developing and executing comprehensive fundraising programs.
4. Expertise in the principles of development, including major and planned giving, annual funds, event planning, and grant writing.
5. Superior communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to inspire and engage a range of stakeholders.
6. Proficiency with Raiser’s Edge NXT or similar donor databases.
7. A collaborative team player with strong leadership skills and the ability to work well under pressure.
8. A growth mindset with a proactive approach to problem-solving and innovation.
9. Integrity, professionalism, and a strong commitment to the school’s mission and values.

Physical and Psychological Demands

1. Must be:
   a. Physically and mentally capable of performing multiple tasks simultaneously and functioning effectively in a fast-paced environment.
   b. Able to support and speak passionately about the School’s mission.
   c. Willing to travel as needed, including overnight stays, to represent the School.
   d. Capable of working with a visual display terminal and keyboard for extended periods.
   e. Open to receiving and giving feedback in a constructive manner.
2. Must enjoy working in a collaborative, community-oriented environment with faculty, staff, parents, and children.
3. Must demonstrate the following qualities to be an effective team player:
   a. Trustworthiness and the ability to trust colleagues and supervisors.
   b. Ability to communicate timely and professionally to address conflicts.
   c. Strong evidence of commitment and loyalty to the Sea Crest Leadership Team and the School.
   d. Accountability and ownership of responsibilities.
   e. Exceptional attention to detail and a focus on delivering results.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or equivalent experience preferred.
• Minimum three years of development experience, with a focus on major gifts and grant writing.
• Experience in non-profit or independent school settings is highly preferred.
• Proficiency with Blackbaud’s Raiser’s Edge NXT or a similar fundraising platform.
• First Aid, AED, and CPR certification, along with a valid California Driver’s License.

About Sea Crest School

About Sea Crest School Sea Crest is a JK-8 school of joyful learning and community. Located in the heart of Half Moon Bay, Sea Crest offers a high-quality, engaging educational experience that leverages our beautiful setting with a focus on marine and coastal connection. Our creative and collaborative educators believe in providing the best in innovative education to inspire and empower learners to engage curiosity, express creativity, act with compassion and lead with courage. For 25 years, we have had the privilege of stewarding young minds and hearts through their journey of discovery, growth and development. Our small class sizes support a personalized approach to instruction and the opportunity to develop strong connections with students. Our enrichment programs enable students to discover new interests and abilities in a supportive environment. Sea Crest graduates are: Inclusive, Thoughtful, Knowledgeable, Creative, and Articulate. Sea Crest teachers are… Compassionate, student-centered educators with an understanding and appreciation of child development. Reflective, lifelong learners who pursue professional growth. Skilled practitioners who differentiate learning to... meet the needs of all students. Inspired educators who craft joyful and meaningful learning experiences. Effective collaborators and communicators committed to fostering strong partnerships with colleagues and families. Committed to celebrating diversity and cultivating equity and belonging for all students.

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Connections working at Sea Crest School