Posted: 07-Jun-26
Location: San Diego, California
Type: Full Time
Salary: $140,000 - $200,000
Categories:
Salary Details:
Preferred Education:
Position Title: Director of Development
Reports To: Head of School
Classification: Full-Time, Exempt
School Overview
The Children's School, an independent school located in La Jolla, California, inspires children from toddlers through grade eight with a rich academic and social curriculum. The Children's School is accredited by the California Association of Independent Schools and is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools. To learn more about The Children’s School, please visit www.tcslj.org.
Position Summary
The Director of Development is a strategic and relationship-driven leader responsible for designing, implementing, and managing a comprehensive fundraising program to support the school’s mission and long-term sustainability. This individual works closely with the Head of School, Leadership Team, and parent community to cultivate a culture of philanthropy and secure annual, major, and planned gifts.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and execute a comprehensive development plan aligned with the school’s strategic priorities
- Partner with the Head of School and Director of Finance to set and achieve annual fundraising goals
- Lead and support Board development committee
Fundraising & Advancement
- Oversee all aspects of the Annual Fund, including strategy, messaging, and volunteer engagement
- Cultivate and steward major gift prospects and donors
- Manage donor relations and stewardship programs to ensure strong retention and engagement
Community Engagement
- Build meaningful relationships with parents, alumni, grandparents, and community partners
- Support and enhance a culture of giving across all constituencies
- Collaborate with admissions and communications to ensure consistent messaging and brand alignment
Events & Communications
- Oversee fundraising events, including gala and donor gatherings
- Partner on development-related communications, including newsletters, impact reports, and campaigns
Operations
- Manage development office operations, including database oversight, gift processing, and reporting
- Supervise development staff and coordinate volunteer efforts
- Track and analyze fundraising performance metrics
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred
- 5+ years of progressive experience in fundraising, preferably in an independent school or nonprofit setting
- Proven success in major gifts, annual giving, and campaign management
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
- Ability to engage and inspire a wide range of stakeholders
- High level of discretion, professionalism, and integrity
Preferred Attributes
- Passion for independent school education and child development
- Experience working with boards and volunteer leadership
- Strategic thinker with a hands-on, collaborative approach
Compensation & Benefits
$140,000 - $200,000
Competitive compensation package, including health benefits, retirement plan, and professional development opportunities.
To Apply
Please submit a cover letter, resume, and a list of references to John Fowler, Head of School. jfowler@tcslj.org
Minimum three years experience in development with an independent school or non-profit organization.
