EMPLOYMENT - available job Positions 

Nature and Scope of Job
The Director of Development is a key member of the Forward Facing Leadership Team, responsible for creating and executing a strategic development plan that aligns with Sea Crest School’s mission and culture. This role oversees all aspects of fundraising, donor relations, grant writing, and community outreach, while also managing development-focused messaging, including social media. The Director of Development works closely with the Head of School and Director of Marketing and Communications to support school events and ensure cohesive messaging.

FLSA Status
Full-time, Exempt

Line of Authority
Reports directly to the Head of School (HOS).

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

1. Serve as an advocate for the school’s mission, acting as a highly visible and positive ambassador to all constituencies.
2. Collaborate with the Head of School (HOS) to develop and implement long- and short-term fundraising strategies.
3. Lead the creation and execution of the school’s annual development plan, including fundraising campaigns, capital campaigns, and planned giving initiatives.
4. Provide timely and transparent updates on development activities to the HOS and Board of Trustees.
5. Manage the advancement calendar, ensuring all development activities align with broader institutional goals.

Fundraising and Donor Relations

1. Oversee key fundraising efforts, including the Annual Fund, Ginger Girvin Run for Flexible Tuition, the Dream Event (spring auction), major giving, endowments, and special events.
2. Cultivate and steward relationships with major donors, foundations, and corporations. Lead all stages of the donor lifecycle: identification, cultivation, solicitation, recognition, and stewardship.
3. Write compelling grant applications and reports to secure foundation and corporate support.
4. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations related to fundraising.
5. Maintain the school’s development database (Raiser’s Edge NXT), track donations, and generate acknowledgment letters.

Collaboration and Reporting

1. Work closely with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to align the development budget with the school’s financial plan.
2. Prepare and present development progress reports to the HOS and Board of Trustees.
3. Serve on committees and take on special projects as assigned.
4. Actively engage with the school’s community, maintaining close relationships with students, families, alumni, and faculty to inform development efforts.

Skills and Competencies

1. Deep understanding of institutional advancement in independent schools, with a proven track record in fundraising.
2. Strong organizational, time management, and multitasking skills to balance multiple priorities.
3. Demonstrated success in developing and executing comprehensive fundraising programs.
4. Expertise in the principles of development, including major and planned giving, annual funds, event planning, and grant writing.
5. Superior communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to inspire and engage a range of stakeholders.
6. Proficiency with Raiser’s Edge NXT or similar donor databases.
7. A collaborative team player with strong leadership skills and the ability to work well under pressure.
8. A growth mindset with a proactive approach to problem-solving and innovation.
9. Integrity, professionalism, and a strong commitment to the school’s mission and values.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or equivalent experience preferred.
• Minimum three years of development experience, with a focus on major gifts and grant writing.
• Experience in non-profit or independent school settings is highly preferred.
• Proficiency with Blackbaud’s Raiser’s Edge NXT or a similar fundraising platform.
• First Aid, AED, and CPR certification, along with a valid California Driver’s License.

Salary and Benefits

Sea Crest offers a strong benefits package and a competitive salary range. Annual salary from $110,000 to $130,000 depending on relevant experience and education level. Sea Crest School offers competitive benefits and a 7% employer contribution into a 403(b) retirement plan (no match required, effective immediately upon hire). Full-time employees qualify for 50% remission for their children attending the School as well as free extended day program while they are working.

To Apply 

Please submit a cover letter and résumé to Lauren Miller, Head of School, at lmiller@seacrestschool.org.