Development Director

About Harlem Academy

Harlem Academy is an independent school (grades K through 8) that drives equity of opportunity for promising students, guiding them to thrive at the highest academic levels and one day make a mark on the world. Please peruse our website for more information about our school culture, family partnership, new campus, strong results – and everything else that makes Harlem Academy uniquely positioned in the New York City education landscape.

The Opportunity

Reporting directly to the head of school and in close collaboration with the board of trustees, the development director leads all fundraising efforts. Given the school’s focus on equity, fundraising fuels the school’s mission. This role offers a rare chance to drive the growth and evolution of a dynamic institution and build the resources that will sustain and expand its impact for decades to come.

Primary Responsibilities

Fundraising

• Develops, implements, and manages the annual fundraising strategy to exceed the $5.5M+ annual fund and other fundraising targets.
• Designs and launches the next capital and endowment campaign (likely $50M-$60M), building on the success of the $32.4 million capital campaign completed in 2021.
• Leads the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of a major gifts portfolio.
• Collaborates with the strategy & communications director to develop and deliver compelling messaging and communication materials.
• Manages onsite and offsite partner events that drive fundraising and stewardship.

Board Partnership and Volunteer Programs

• Collaborates closely with the board of trustees on development goals, including staffing the development committee, events committee, committee on trustees, and capital campaign committee.
• Leads the expansion of the advisory council and other volunteer programs to support fundraising efforts.

• Minimum 5 years of experience in fundraising and development, preferably in an independent school setting.
• Proven track record of success in leading fundraising efforts and achieving or exceeding fundraising targets.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with donors, board members, and other stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a high level of professionalism and discretion.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and strategically.