Director of Advancement

Job Title: Director of Advancement

Location: St. Jean Baptiste High School, New York City

Reports To: Head of School

Start Date: February 2025

Position Overview:

St. Jean Baptiste is an all-girls Catholic High school that has been educating young women for nearly one hundred years. St. Jean Baptiste High School develops women of faith, service, and leadership and empowers the whole community to participate actively in the transformation of society for a more just world.

Our mission is to provide a liberating educational experience. Many of our girls receive financial assistance or scholarships which help make an education like ours possible. As a result, we are looking for a dynamic and strategic Director of Development to support in driving the school’s mission forward through  strategizing, fundraising, and relationship building.

St. Jean Baptiste High School seeks a dynamic and experienced Director of Advancement to lead and oversee the development, implementation, and management of a comprehensive advancement program. This individual will work closely with the Head of School, Board of Trustees, and Development Committee to ensure the success of fundraising efforts and to build strong, lasting relationships with donors, alumni, and key stakeholders. The Director of Advancement will be responsible for driving the financial growth of the school and fostering a culture of philanthropy.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership & Collaboration:
• Develop and implement a comprehensive, integrated advancement strategy that aligns with the mission, vision, and strategic plan of St. Jean Baptiste High School. Collaborate closely with the  Head of School, Board of Trustees, and Development Committee to set priorities and strategies for fundraising and outreach.
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• Fundraising and Campaign Management:
• Oversee the execution of various fundraising campaigns, including annual giving, major gifts, capital campaigns, and planned giving. Coordinate annual fundraising events, such as the Gala, and work to deepen donor engagement. Identify, cultivate, and solicit major gifts from individuals, foundations, and corporations to meet the school’s financial goals.
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• Donor Cultivation & Relationship-Building:
• Build and sustain strong relationships with key donors, including alumni, parents, and community partners. Develop strategies to engage prospective donors and ensure ongoing stewardship. Lead efforts to enhance alumni relations and encourage alumni giving.
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• Team Management:
• Lead and manage a small, dedicated development team, including the Development Associate, volunteers, and contractors. Provide guidance, mentorship, and professional development to ensure team success.
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• Data-Driven Decision Making:
• Utilize donor management systems (such as Raiser’s Edge) and data analytics to track progress, measure the effectiveness of fundraising efforts, and identify opportunities for improvement.
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• Communications & Marketing:
• Develop and implement a communications plan that raises the visibility of the school’s advancement efforts. Oversee the creation of marketing materials, including newsletters, the school’s annual report, and website content related to fundraising activities. Ensure clear, compelling communication that engages and informs donors and stakeholders.
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• Grant Writing & Sponsorships:
• Research and pursue grant opportunities to support the school’s mission and initiatives. Develop partnerships with other educational institutions and community organizations to expand fundraising opportunities.
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• Community Engagement:
• Represent the school at fundraising events, community gatherings, and public forums. Travel outside of NYC and attend events on nights and weekends as needed to cultivate relationships and promote the school’s mission.

Desired Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree or advanced certification in a relevant field preferred.
• 5-7 years of experience in development or fundraising, with a proven track record of success in major gifts and donor relations.
• Outstanding interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with a variety of stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of fundraising strategies, donor relations, and development best practices.
• Proficiency in development software and donor management systems (Raiser’s Edge experience a plus).
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, including public speaking and event planning.
• A creative and entrepreneurial spirit, with the ability to create processes and structures to support future growth.
• Commitment to the school’s mission and values and a deep belief in the success of all students, particularly those from marginalized communities.

Salary: $90,000-$150,000

Benefits: Health, dental, retirement, and other benefits offered

St. Jean Baptiste High School is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.