Job Title: Director of Development
Reports to: Head of School
Location: Northwest Yeshiva High School, Mercer Island, WA
Job Type: Part-time or Full-time | Exempt
About Northwest Yeshiva High School
Northwest Yeshiva High School (NYHS) is the Pacific Northwest’s only Jewish high school, committed to academic excellence, Torah values, and cultivating a vibrant and inclusive community. As a nonprofit institution, we aim to inspire and empower our students to become thoughtful, ethical leaders grounded in Jewish tradition and prepared for the future.
Position Summary
NYHS seeks a dynamic, strategic, and relationship-driven Director of Development to lead and execute all fundraising and development initiatives. Reporting to the Head of School, the Director of Development is a key administration team member responsible for advancing the school’s mission through strategic donor engagement, community relations, grant acquisition, and event planning. This role is critical to ensuring the financial health and long-term sustainability of the school.
Key Responsibilities
Fundraising and Development Strategy
- Design, implement, and manage a comprehensive annual development plan aligned with the school’s strategic priorities.
- Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with major donors, alumni, foundations, and community partners.
- Lead capital campaigns, annual giving programs, endowment growth, and special project fundraising.
- Oversee prospect research and donor analytics to identify giving opportunities.
Donor Relations & Stewardship
- Maintain a portfolio of major gift prospects and develop personalized stewardship plans.
- Ensure timely and meaningful recognition of all contributions (48 hours)
- Foster a culture of philanthropy within the school community.
- Work with Board Members/ Committee members to maximize effectiveness of development programs.
Events and Community Engagement
- Plan and execute development events including the annual benefit, donor appreciation events, and alumni gatherings.
- Represent NYHS at community events to enhance visibility and engagement.
- Partner with the marketing team to produce compelling content and campaigns.
Grants and Institutional Giving
- Research and write grant proposals to foundations and corporations.
- Track grant deadlines, reporting requirements, and outcomes.
Database and Financial Accountability
- Manage and optimize development database systems.
- Ensure accurate entry, reconciliation, and acknowledgment of all donations.
- Work closely with the business office to reconcile contributions and financial reporting.
Team Leadership and Collaboration
- Collaborate with the Head of School, Director of Operations, Board of Directors, and faculty to support a unified advancement strategy.
- Engage with parent and alumni volunteers to support development goals.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or CFRE certification is a plus.
- Minimum 5 years of nonprofit development experience, preferably in an educational or faith-based setting.
- Proven success in major gifts fundraising and donor relations.
- Experience with CRM/donor management platforms and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong writing, communication, and presentation skills.
- Detail-oriented with excellent organizational and project management abilities.
- Knowledge of and/or connection to the Jewish community a plus.
Key Attributes
- Passionate about education and Jewish values.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to execute tactically.
- Personable, engaging, and able to build authentic relationships.
- Highly organized, data-driven, and self-motivated.
Compensation and Benefits
Salary Range: $50,000 to $100,000
Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience. NYHS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, retirement plan options, and generous vacation and holiday leave.
To Apply:
Please submit a resume, cover letter, and three references to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.