Director of Development

Orange County•Newport Beach, CA

18d

About The Position

Core Beliefs Pacifica's Core Beliefs and Approach to Teaching and Learning serve to provide clarity on who we are including our mission, purpose, and approach to student formation. Please read this document and use it to respond to questions in the application. Strategy, Leadership & Management: Develop and execute comprehensive advancement strategies to increase philanthropic support for Pacifica’s mission and programs. Cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with patrons and major donors, alumni, parents, and other key stakeholders to maximize philanthropic support. Lead the planning and implementation of capital campaign strategies, annual giving programs, and special fundraising events. Serve as a strategic thought partner and advisor to the Head of School, collaborating closely with the Board of Trustees and senior leadership to align advancement strategy, donor engagement, and public representation with the school’s strategic priorities and fundraising goals. Manage the Advancement Team, providing leadership, guidance, and professional development opportunities to ensure the team’s success. Oversee management of donor databases and gift processing systems to ensure accurate record-keeping and reporting. Work closely with communications and marketing team members to develop compelling messaging and materials that effectively communicate the school’s impact and funding needs. Represent Pacifica at community events, conferences, and networking opportunities to enhance the school’s visibility and reputation. Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of fundraising and communications efforts, tracking progress toward goals and making data-driven adjustments as needed. Stay informed about trends and best practices in advancement and philanthropy, continuously seeking opportunities for innovation and improvement. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Commitment to the mission and values of Pacifica, with a passion for education and youth development. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build strong relationships and engage with diverse stakeholders. Strategic thinker with a results-oriented mindset, capable of developing and executing effective fundraising strategies. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment, with a high level of professionalism and integrity. A commitment to excellence and spirit of optimism and possibility about achieving great things during a time of profound disruption and opportunity in the education space.

Requirements

Commitment to the mission and values of Pacifica, with a passion for education and youth development.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build strong relationships and engage with diverse stakeholders.
Strategic thinker with a results-oriented mindset, capable of developing and executing effective fundraising strategies.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment, with a high level of professionalism and integrity.
A commitment to excellence and spirit of optimism and possibility about achieving great things during a time of profound disruption and opportunity in the education space.
Bachelor’s degree required (advanced degree in related can be helpful) alongside a curious mind who enjoys learning.
Minimum 5+ years of experience in advancement/fundraising, with a proven track record of securing major gifts and leading successful campaigns.
Strong leadership and management skills, with demonstrated success inspiring and motivating a team to realize ambitious goals.
Familiarity with fundraising databases and CRM systems, as well as proficiency in Google Suite and other relevant software.
A criminal background check must be successfully completed before employment can begin.
The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. As prescribed by law, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute comprehensive advancement strategies to increase philanthropic support for Pacifica’s mission and programs.
Cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with patrons and major donors, alumni, parents, and other key stakeholders to maximize philanthropic support.
Lead the planning and implementation of capital campaign strategies, annual giving programs, and special fundraising events.
Serve as a strategic thought partner and advisor to the Head of School, collaborating closely with the Board of Trustees and senior leadership to align advancement strategy, donor engagement, and public representation with the school’s strategic priorities and fundraising goals.
Manage the Advancement Team, providing leadership, guidance, and professional development opportunities to ensure the team’s success.
Oversee management of donor databases and gift processing systems to ensure accurate record-keeping and reporting.
Work closely with communications and marketing team members to develop compelling messaging and materials that effectively communicate the school’s impact and funding needs.
Represent Pacifica at community events, conferences, and networking opportunities to enhance the school’s visibility and reputation.
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of fundraising and communications efforts, tracking progress toward goals and making data-driven adjustments as needed.
Stay informed about trends and best practices in advancement and philanthropy, continuously seeking opportunities for innovation and improvement.