Reporting to the Head of School, the Director of Advancement works closely with the Head of School and the Board of Trustees. This position supervises staff to provide leadership for the advancement program as it builds a strong culture of philanthropy throughout the school and global community. The goal of the Director of Advancement is to design giving programs that attract the maximum gift support possible to the institution.
Essential Roles and Responsibilities
Establish and execute forward-thinking advancement and strategic programs that optimally grow the annual, major, and future comprehensive campaigns; legacy gifts; and planned giving.
As part of the school’s leadership team, the Director of Advancement must develop trusting, productive, and collaborative relationships with leaders, faculty, and staff. Oversee all aspects of the advancement program, including fundraising, leading the annual giving program, guiding future comprehensive campaigns, soliciting corporate and foundation proposals, creating a strong alumnae and alumni association, and special development events.
Identify, research, and spearhead the implementation of a diverse and multifaceted fundraising program to support the school’s strategic vision, cultivating a culture of giving and gratitude across all constituencies and socio-economic strata. With the advancement team and in collaboration with the enrollment office, create fundraising and enrollment-related communication materials to expand and enhance the school’s visibility and reputation.
Identify corporate and foundation funding opportunities and draft grant applications.
Strengthen relationships with the school’s alumnae and alumni and further develop alumnae and alumni programming.
Personally solicit major donors.
Enhance existing relationships while building new relationships, systems, and programs that further tap into the generosity and resources of the community.
Manage and leverage the existing CRM database (Raiser’s Edge) to further fundraising efforts.
Manage the development budget.
Supervise and nurture the development team - director of communications and marketing, director of community outreach, alumnae and events coordinator, database manager/administrative support.
Coordinate volunteer efforts for the Advancement office.
Nurture and maintain a highly collaborative relationship with the head of school, the board chair, and individual board members, supporting them in all their fundraising responsibilities, and accompanying them on donor visits when appropriate.
Preferred Qualifications and Skills
Bachelor’s required and master’s degree preferred
5+ years of experience in the nonprofit sector and fundraising required
School experience
Demonstrated leadership experience
Proven success in directly soliciting and closing charitable gifts
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with all the school’s constituents while maintaining strict confidentiality
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Strategic thinker
Outstanding knowledge of fundraising data software and database management software (Raiser’s Edge)
Experience working with and motivating volunteers and staff members Familiarity with the local community
