Island Pacific Academy (IPA) seeks a dynamic and experienced Director of Advancement to lead its advancement department. The Director of Advancement will be responsible for the strategic direction, management, and execution of all fundraising, development, marketing, and communication initiatives, including managing an endowment campaign, alumni relations, and current family engagement. This role is crucial in sustaining and growing the financial health of IPA through innovative fundraising strategies, major gifts, endowment growth, alumni engagement, community partnerships, and strategic communications.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Planning:
- Develop and implement short- and long-term advancement plans to meet IPA's fundraising goals.
- Lead and manage the endowment campaign to ensure long-term financial sustainability.
- Strategically integrate traditional and innovative development strategies to secure major gifts, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, endowment gifts, and alumni contributions.
- Lead and manage all fundraising events, including the annual Golf Tournament and other special events.
- Collaborate with key constituents (board members, alumni, parents, and community stakeholders) to build strong, lasting relationships that support philanthropic goals.
- Clearly articulate IPA's case for philanthropy, inspiring a culture of giving and demonstrating the connection between philanthropy and a quality education at IPA.
Endowment Campaign Management:
- Develop and oversee strategies to grow the school's endowment, including securing major endowment gifts and developing a compelling case for endowment support.
- Engage with key stakeholders and donors to build a strong endowment funding base that supports the long-term mission of IPA.
Marketing & Communications:
- Manage internal and external marketing and communications to ensure consistent and effective messaging that aligns with IPA's values and mission.
- Develop and implement communication strategies for key audiences, including current families, prospective families, alumni, donors, and community members.
- Collaborate with the marketing team to create compelling content for newsletters, website updates, social media, and promotional materials.
Alumni Engagement:
- Lead the development and implementation of a robust alumni engagement program, including alumni giving initiatives, events, and return-to-campus activities.
- Foster relationships with alumni to increase their involvement in IPA's community, philanthropy, and networking efforts.
Donor Stewardship & Prospect Development:
- Manage and oversee donor cultivation strategies, ensuring a meaningful donor cycle that enhances giving levels and deepens donor relationships.
- Oversee the management of donor database systems, ensuring accurate gift processing, donor acknowledgment, and financial reporting.
Ethical Fundraising Compliance:
- Ensure all fundraising activities comply with ethical standards as outlined by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) and the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).
- Provide daily leadership and mentorship to the advancement staff, setting clear annual goals, conducting performance reviews, and supporting professional development.
- Foster a collaborative and motivated team environment that drives success in all advancement activities.
- Regularly meet with the Head of School to discuss development goals and provide updates.
- Report to the Board of Directors and relevant committees on advancement initiatives and progress.
- Coordinate efforts with IPA's Parent Association (IPAPA) and other internal and external stakeholders to promote fundraising opportunities and community support.
Grant Writing & Financial Oversight:
- Lead efforts to secure corporate and foundation grants, including researching opportunities and submitting proposals.
- Manage advancement department budgets and ensure compliance with all financial policies and reporting standards.

Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in a related field (advanced degree preferred).
5-10+ years of progressively responsible experience in nonprofit fundraising, development, and communications.
Proven track record of success in securing major gifts, managing fundraising campaigns, and organizing high-impact events.
Experience in grant writing, with knowledge of both foundation and government grants.
Strong leadership and managerial skills, with experience in leading teams and working collaboratively with key stakeholders.
Expertise in current development best practices, fundraising technologies, communication strategies, and emerging trends in philanthropy.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and engage donors, alumni, volunteers, and staff.
Occasional travel within the local area is required.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

Primarily an indoor office environment with occasional outdoor duties during events.
Ability to lift up to 15 lbs regularly and up to 40 lbs occasionally, particularly during events.
Noise levels may vary, especially during school-related events.
Proficiency in using computers, phones, and development-related software such as Raiser's Edge and Give Campus.

Non-discriminatory Statement:

Island Pacific Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to a workplace environment that encourages growth and respect for all current and prospective employees based upon job-related factors such as their educational background, work experience, and ability to perform the essential functions of a particular job. It is the policy and practice of Island Pacific Academy to prohibit any form of discrimination or harassment based on race, color, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity or gender expression, military or veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Hawai'i Association Of Independent Schools jobs

Director of Advancement