The Chief Advancement Officer (CAO) plays a pivotal role in advancing this mission by providing strategic leadership and oversight for all aspects of the school’s revenue generation, community engagement, and external relations. A member of the Senior Leadership Team and reporting directly to the Head of School, the CAO leads an integrated Advancement team encompassing Development, Enrollment Management, Marketing, and Community Engagement. The CAO serves as a key strategic partner to the Head of School in shaping and sustaining the school’s financial health and reputation. This role is responsible for driving tuition revenue through effective enrollment management, building philanthropic support through annual giving and capital campaigns, and enhancing the school’s visibility and connection with its community through strategic marketing and communications. The CAO leads a talented team that includes directors and staff in development, enrollment, marketing, and communications, promoting collaboration and alignment across these functions to ensure a cohesive approach to mission advancement and long-term sustainability.

If you are committed to collaborative leadership and advancing educational goals, please send your cover letter, resume, and a list of three professional references to Lynda Hamilton-Kirk, Managing Partner at lynda@dovetailedsourcing.com. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Community Engagement - Ability to foster strong relationships with parents, alumni, and the broader community to deepen engagement and advocacy.
• Partner with faculty, staff, and parent volunteers to build a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
• Represent CWA at school events and community gatherings to strengthen visibility and trust.

Requirements

• Master’s Degree required.
• At least 10 years of senior leadership experience in advancement, development, and/or enrollment management in independent schools.
• Proven track record in revenue generation, fundraising strategy, and team leadership.
• Exceptional communication, collaboration, and relationship-building skills.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and project management abilities.
• Warmth, empathy, and authenticity in engaging diverse constituencies.
• Strong ethical standards and a demonstrated ability to handle confidential information.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a commitment to innovation and excellence. 

About Charles Wright Academy

At Charles Wright Academy, we are an independent school community where students discover their passions through a breadth of opportunities. Our coeducational, preschool – grade 12 community of learners are dedicated to the values of integrity, respect, compassion, perseverance, and excellence. Nestled within the woods of our beautiful 107-acre campus, we offer an environment that is safe, inviting, and suits our mission: To inspire active, joyful learning while nurturing and challenging our students to develop the character, creativity, and skills to successfully navigate the future with confidence.

Connections working at Charles Wright Academy