Director of Institutional Advancement

Reports To: Head of School

The Director of Institutional Advancement is a key leadership role responsible for advancing the mission, reputation, and financial sustainability of The Grosse Pointe Academy through strategic oversight of fundraising, alumni relations, marketing/communications, and admissions/enrollment management. 

The Director will work closely with the Head of School, Board of Trustees, and senior leadership to develop and implement comprehensive advancement initiatives that foster a culture of philanthropy, expand enrollment, and strengthen the school’s visibility and community engagement.

• Develop and implement a strategic advancement plan to increase philanthropic support, enhance donor engagement, and sustain long-term financial health.
• Lead all fundraising initiatives, including annual giving, major gifts, capital campaigns, planned giving, and corporate/foundation relations.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors, alumni, parents, and community partners.
• Organize and oversee advancement events, ensuring strategic alignment with fundraising and community-building goals.
• Strengthen alumni engagement through networking opportunities, events, and communications.
• Build relationships with parents, grandparents, and the wider community to foster involvement and support.
• Serves as the school’s liaison for parent and volunteer initiatives.
• Manage the advancement database and ensure accurate record-keeping and donor recognition.
• Identify and pursue grant opportunities to secure additional funding.

• Working with the Director of Marketing/Communications, review and execute the strategic marketing and communications plan to enhance the school’s visibility, brand identity, and community engagement.
• Oversee all digital and print marketing efforts, including website management, social media, email campaigns, and press relations.
• Serve as the primary storyteller, effectively communicating the school’s mission, values, and impact to various stakeholders.
• Work with faculty, staff, and administration to promote a consistent and compelling school image.

• Working with the Director of Enrollment to update and implement a comprehensive Inquiry to Enrollment sequence to attract, enroll, and retain mission-appropriate students.
• Collaborate with the Director of Enrollment to analyze local and national enrollment trends and data to inform strategic decision-making.
• Cultivate relationships with prospective families, feeder schools, and community organizations.
• Oversee the financial aid process in collaboration with the Director of Enrollment and Business Office.

• Serves as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to strategic planning and decision-making processes.
• Develop and implement long-term strategic plans for institutional advancement in alignment with the school’s mission and goals.
• Monitor and assess the effectiveness of the advancement initiatives, making data-driven adjustments as necessary.
• Prepare and present reports to the Head of School and Board of Trustees on advancement activities and progress.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive environment within the advancement team and the school community.
• Provide mentorship and professional development opportunities for team members.     

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in advancement, admissions, fundraising, or related fields, preferably in an independent school or nonprofit setting.
• Proven track record in fundraising, donor cultivation, and capital campaign management.
• Strong leadership, strategic planning, and team management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to inspire and engage stakeholders.
• Proficiency in CRM and donor management software, as well as digital marketing tools.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed for events and engagements.
• The successful candidate must provide a mandated fingerprint clearance.
  

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and a list of professional references to The Grosse Pointe Academy at hr@gpacademy.org.

Salary is negotiable based on qualifications and experience.

The Grosse Pointe Academy is an equal-opportunity employer and values diversity in its faculty, staff, and student body.

The Grosse Pointe Academy’s curriculum and learning environment nurtures, challenges, and inspires our students. To learn more about The Academy Cornerstones, visit www.gpacademy.org and select Who We Are for more information.