Description
DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
Start Date: Summer 2025
MISSION
ASSIST creates life-changing opportunities for outstanding international Scholars to learn from and contribute to the finest American independent secondary schools.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
The Director of Development (DoD) is a senior administrative position reporting to the President and is charged with directing and expanding the organization’s maturing fundraising program, which includes the ASSIST Fund (annual fund), major gifts, sponsorships (financial aid), and planned giving. The DoD works closely with the President and the Board of Directors to establish funding strategies and objectives. The DoD also oversees projects relating to the Board of Directors, marketing and communications, and alumni relations, and supervises the Development and Orientation Manager.
The successful candidate will have the ability to work in a hybrid schedule: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays in the office in Suffield, Connecticut, with the option to work remotely on Mondays and Fridays.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Ensure that the ASSIST Fund continues to grow and meet strategic goals.
- Expand and coordinate fundraising, communication, and engagement with constituents in the U.S. and international markets.
- Supervise the Development and Orientation Manager.
- Serve as primary liaison to Friends of ASSIST (FOA) in Germany; travel quarterly to Germany for meetings and solicitations.
- Collaborate with the President and Board to cultivate and steward major gift prospects.
- Lead alumni relations to strengthen engagement and increase participation.
- Coordinate marketing efforts with the Director of Marketing.
- Work with the Governance Committee to identify Board candidates.
- Manage the DonorPerfect database.
- Plan special events aligned with giving strategies.
- Deliver quarterly fundraising reports to the Board.
- Serve as staff liaison to the Development and Governance Committees.
- Participate in the 5-day annual ASSIST Orientation program in August.
DESIRED QUALITIES AND QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent required.
- 8-10 years of fundraising experience, preferably in an independent school, including with annual funds, major gifts, and capital campaigns.
- International fundraising experience preferred.
- Proven ability to develop and execute fundraising plans and meet goals.
- Strong work ethic and consistent goal achievement.
- Strategic thinker and tactical executor across development programs.
- Passionate believer in ASSIST’s mission.
- Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
- Experience with DonorPerfect and proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Decisive and confident leader with integrity and team spirit.
- Experience managing staff and motivating others.
- Background in communications and/or alumni relations preferred.
- Ability to travel extensively in the U.S. and internationally.
Location: Suffield, CT, with a hybrid work schedule.
Compensation & Benefits: Competitive and commensurate with experience and the independent school market.
Interested and qualified candidates should contact the consultant in confidence and submit:
- Cover letter expressing interest in the position.
- Current résumé.
- List of three professional references (references will not be contacted without permission).
