Darlington School seeks a Director of Development to join a talented, enthusiastic advancement team. The Director of Development role is a key member of the Advancement team and reports to the Chief Advancement Officer. The Director of Development is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Advancement team as well as strategic partnership with the Chief Advancement Officer and Head of School. The ideal candidate has a passion for education and is an experienced fundraiser and excellent communicator.
Key Responsibilities
- Works with the Head of School, Chief Advancement Officer and Advancement Committee of the Board of Trustees to develop strategies to initiate and meet aggressive fundraising goals.
- Manages Development office, including Alumni Relations, gift accounting/database and other fundraising priorities.
- Manages a portfolio of prospects capable of giving $5,000 or more, moving them from identification through solicitation. Design and implement personalized strategies for each prospect.
- Designs, implements and manages fundraising activities including endowment and other school-related solicitations.
- Manages strategies and activities for donor cultivation, solicitation, and relations.
- Manages and develops proposals for foundations and corporations.
- Partners with the Communications and Admissions Offices to support all external work of the school.
- Works closely with the Business Office to ensure proper recording and reporting of gifts.
Successful candidates will
- Have a minimum of five years leading a team.
- Have a track record of identifying, cultivating, and soliciting major gifts.
- Believe in and support the mission of Darlington School.
- Possess loyalty to a team; willing spirit in supporting team projects and team members.
- Be a service‑oriented problem‑solver who is able to successfully work with diverse individuals.
- Be highly organized with strong attention to deadlines, detail and accuracy in a fluid environment.
- Exhibit collaborative spirit when responding to emerging or unplanned projects.
- Have excellent oral, written, telephone and e‑mail communication skills; ability to communicate effectively with a variety of constituents.
- Have strong computer skills, including high competency with Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and Raiser’s Edge.
- Be willing to travel as required, and to work evenings and weekends as necessary.
- Have a Bachelor's degree (communications, nonprofit management, public relations, or related field).
