Director of Development #6304

A leading independent school is seeking a dynamic, strategic, and relationship-driven Director of Development to lead its fundraising, advancement, and community engagement efforts. This role provides an opportunity to have a meaningful impact on the institution’s mission while cultivating relationships with donors, alumni, parents, and the broader community. The ideal candidate will be a proactive leader with experience building and managing comprehensive development programs, adept at donor engagement, and committed to fostering a culture of philanthropy.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Fundraising

• Design and implement a comprehensive development program, including major gifts, annual giving, capital campaigns, endowment initiatives, and strategic projects.
• Cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors, prospects, and foundations in partnership with leadership and trustees.
• Prepare senior leadership for donor interactions and provide strategic guidance for fundraising initiatives.
• Analyze and track fundraising performance to ensure the achievement of institutional goals.

Advancement & Community Engagement

• Serve as the primary ambassador for the school’s philanthropic efforts.
• Build and maintain relationships with families, alumni, and the broader community.
• Represent the school at events to engage donors and community stakeholders.
• Foster a culture of philanthropy among staff, volunteers, and stakeholders.

Operations & Management

• Supervise and mentor the development team, providing guidance, feedback, and professional growth opportunities.
• Oversee development operations, including budget management, gift processing, donor data integrity, and reporting.
• Collaborate with committees and leadership to align advancement strategies with institutional priorities.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible development experience, preferably in an independent school or nonprofit setting.
• Proven success in major gift fundraising, capital campaigns, and donor relations.
• Leadership experience with at least 3 years in a management role.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency with fundraising software, donor databases, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Familiarity with the local community and donor landscape is helpful.

Key Competencies & Attributes

• Relationship-oriented, strategic thinker, and collaborative leader.
• Highly organized with strong project management and follow-up skills.
• Independent, proactive, and comfortable engaging with senior stakeholders.
• Commitment to the mission, values, and culture of the institution.
• Ability to build trust quickly and maintain long-term donor relationships.

Work Environment & Benefits

• Primarily in-person role with flexibility for remote work as needed.
• Supportive, collaborative, and mission-driven workplace culture.
• Competitive salary with potential flexibility based on experience.
• 28 days of PTO plus holidays.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits.
• Retirement plan with employer contribution.
• Professional development support and opportunities for growth.
• Participation in community and fundraising events is required (approximately 2 per week).

This role is an excellent opportunity for an experienced development professional to lead advancement efforts, strengthen donor engagement, and contribute to the long-term success of a thriving independent school.