Director of Development

Position Title: Director of Development

Reports To: Head of School

Classification: Full-Time, Exempt

The Children's School, an independent school located in La Jolla, California, inspires children from toddlers through grade eight with a rich academic and social curriculum. The Children's School is accredited by the California Association of Independent Schools and is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools. To learn more about The Children’s School, please visit www.tcslj.org.

Position Summary:

The Director of Development is a strategic and relationship-driven leader responsible for designing, implementing, and managing a comprehensive fundraising program to support the school’s mission and long-term sustainability. This individual works closely with the Head of School, Leadership Team, and parent community to cultivate a culture of philanthropy and secure annual, major, and planned gifts.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive development plan aligned with the school’s strategic priorities
• Partner with the Head of School and Director of Finance to set and achieve annual fundraising goals
• Lead and support Board development committee

Fundraising & Advancement:

• Oversee all aspects of the Annual Fund, including strategy, messaging, and volunteer engagement
• Cultivate and steward major gift prospects and donors
• Manage donor relations and stewardship programs to ensure strong retention and engagement

Community Engagement:

• Build meaningful relationships with parents, alumni, grandparents, and community members

• Develop and execute a comprehensive development plan
• Partner with the Head of School and Director of Finance to set and achieve annual fundraising goals
• Lead and support Board development committee
• Oversee all aspects of the Annual Fund
• Cultivate and steward major gift prospects and donors
• Manage donor relations and stewardship programs
• Build meaningful relationships with parents, alumni, grandparents, and community members