$90K - 130K a year
Lead fundraising, marketing, and communications efforts to promote the school’s brand, cultivate donor relationships, and secure philanthropic support.
7+ years in fundraising or advancement with success in major gifts, strong communication skills, donor software knowledge, event management, and leadership experience.
Description Children’s Academy is a private, not-for-profit special education school located in Manhattan. The school educates children with speech and language challenges and learning differences in an expansive social environment through a collaborative, evidence-based model that recognizes the individuality of each child. We strive to develop a love of learning, friendships, expression, understanding, and self-advocacy. Children’s Academy is seeking a Director of Advancement, an ideal opportunity for a dynamic and experienced professional to join a vibrant team and support the continued growth of a unique school community. Reporting to the Head of School, the Director of Advancement serves as a key member of the leadership team and leads the school’s fundraising, marketing, and communication efforts. This position strategically promotes the school’s brand, cultivates relationships with donors and partners, and secures philanthropic support to advance the school’s mission. Key Responsibilities • Partner with the Head of School, Senior Administrative Team, and Board members to execute a comprehensive fundraising and communications strategy. • Develop and implement initiatives for major gifts, annual giving, grants, planned giving, and special events. • Cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with donors, alumni, foundations, and corporate partners. • Oversee alumni relations, marketing, and external communications to ensure consistent messaging and brand identity. • Supervise advancement staff and manage donor databases, reporting, and acknowledgment processes. • Draft and manage the Advancement office budget and serve on the Senior Administrative Team. Requirements Qualifications: • Authentic passion for advancing the mission of Children’s Academy • Bachelor’s degree in business, communications, or related field (master’s preferred) • Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in fundraising, development, or advancement • Demonstrated success in growing philanthropic revenue and securing major gifts • Strong knowledge of donor management software and social media/digital communication platforms • Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Strategic thinker and relationship builder with strong interpersonal and problem-solving abilities • Experience managing special events and engaging volunteers • Professionalism, discretion, and diplomacy in all interactions Benefits • 401(k) plan • 401(k) Match 3% • Health, dental, and vision insurance • Flexible spending account • Life insurance • Paid time off and parental leave • Professional development assistance • Employee Assistance Plan Schedule • Monday to Friday • Evenings and weekends as needed Location: • In person, Manhattan, NY (10022) • Must relocate prior to starting
This job posting was last updated on 10/21/2025