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Director of Development

Position Description—Director of Development

November 2021

 

The Harley School, a Nursery through 12th grade coed independent day school in Rochester, NY with approximately 525 students (www.harleyschool.org), seeks a full-time Director of Development. 

 

The successful candidate will join Harley at an exciting time—the School just completed the largest campaign in its history, raising $16.4 million, 40% above its $12 million goal. The Harley Board of Trustees is beginning a strategic planning process and has its sights set on the next major fundraising effort.

 

Job Summary

The Director of Development plans and implements Harley’s comprehensive giving programs. Reporting to the Head of School, supervising a staff of three direct reports, working closely with the Board and many volunteers, the Director is responsible for continuing to grow a strong culture of philanthropy at Harley. 

 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities—the Director of Development will:

    Establish and execute forward-thinking, goal-driven development plans and programs that optimally grow the annual, major, and capital campaigns, including: The Harley Circle (donors making multi-year pledges at the leadership level); and The Harriet Bentley Society (planned giving). Work with the Head and Board Development Committee to evaluate each year’s giving programs, and develop goals and objectives for the following year. Oversee all aspects of the development program, including capital campaign, annual giving, grants, alumni, special events, and database management.  Partner with the Development team and the Head to develop a plan for the cultivation and solicitation of prospective donors, and the stewardship of donors of annual, major, and planned gifts, with specialized plans for leadership prospects and donors.  Personally solicit major donors after developing relationships through outreach and travel. Think strategically and formulate new ways to educate the Harley community (parents, grandparents, faculty/staff, alumni, friends) about philanthropy at The Harley School. Identify, recruit, train, and build relationships with volunteers to help with fundraising efforts Supervise and work closely with the Associate and Assistant Directors who are responsible for targeted events, including Harley Circle events and the annual Harley Blast! gala fundraiser. Strengthen relationships with the School’s alumni both locally and nationally, and continuously improve alumni programming, working closely with the Associate Director / Alumni Director. Maintain a database of all contributors and provide development reports as required, with the assistance of the Database Manager. Identify corporate and foundation funding opportunities and help draft grant applications. Manage the development budget, forecasting needs and meeting budget targets. Work with the Development Committee Chair to staff / organize the Development Committee and coordinate the School’s volunteer efforts.   Participate as a member of the Board Governance Committee. Oversee staff who prepare and arrange production for solicitation materials (direct mailings, volunteer packets, verbal script materials) Work closely with the Marketing & Communications Director on design for print materials, video, and use of photos in print pieces, web and social media. Develop and maintain a highly collaborative relationship with the Head, Board leadership and individual board members, supporting them in their fundraising responsibilities and accompanying them on donor visits when appropriate.  Collaborate with Harley’s Advancement Team (Head, Dir. of Enrollment, and Dir. of Marketing & Communications) to plan and produce communication materials that enhance the School’s visibility and reputation. Serve on the Administrative Team, collaborating with colleagues in supporting a vibrant school.

 

Qualifications

    Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree preferred Significant experience in the nonprofit sector, including management of fundraising campaigns Appreciation for and commitment to independent school education and culture A track record of success in a major gift or capital campaign environment is necessary, along with demonstrated ability to develop and implement 5-, 6-, and 7-figure gift strategies Ability to develop and execute a multi-tiered fundraising strategy across multiple constituencies Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to work graciously with all the School’s constituents while maintaining discretion and confidentiality Excellent verbal and written communication skills; strong data analysis and public speaking abilities  Strategic thinker with a “can-do” style, able to convey Harley’s mission and vision, while taking the practical decisions needed to make programs run well Passionate about working with a wide range of individuals from diverse backgrounds Proficiency using database management software (Raiser's Edge at Harley) to coordinate campaign activities, as well as common office applications (Harley uses the Google suite) Practical experience working with and motivating volunteers and staff members Familiarity with the Greater Rochester community

 

To Apply

Toward promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce, Harley welcomes candidates from all backgrounds. Our School’s mission statement begins, “We are a diverse, inclusive school.”  Along with a cover letter and résumé, we ask that you provide a personal statement on how you see yourself promoting diversity and inclusivity if you join the Harley community. Email address for application: jobs@harleyschool.org.

 

Thank you for your interest in the Harley School.

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