Director of Development - Padua Academy - Wilmington, DE

Michael Julian

Director of Development

Padua Academy, a four-year, Catholic college preparatory high school in Wilmington, Delaware seeks qualified applicants for a full time Director of Development position.

Overview of the Position

The Director of Development will lead the Development Department and manage all aspects of the program. The Director must think strategically and practically to implement a comprehensive, results-oriented development plan that includes traditional and innovative strategies. Key components include goals and timetables for the Annual Fund, major and capital gifts, alumnae and planned giving, and special events, with a complimentary focus on building key relationships with alumnae, families, and community, corporate, and foundation leaders.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a plan to meet established development goals and objectives. These include initiatives to secure major gifts, donations to the Padua Academy Annual Fund, corporate and foundation grants, endowment gifts, robust alumnae giving program, and fundraising/cultivation events.

• Provide daily management of development staff to establish annual goals, provide performance reviews, and support professional development.

• Provide direct management of initiatives to secure gifts for the endowment fund.

• Work collaboratively and creatively to position development opportunities and integrate messages in publications, grant submissions, reports, and collateral materials.

• Clearly articulate and promote a strong case of need for philanthropy and build opportunities to create and sustain a culture that understands the relationship between philanthropy and the unique qualities of a Padua Academy education.

• Oversee management of gift processing and donor acknowledgement, donor database, and financial reporting. Manage accompanying information systems.

• Manage prospect research and cultivation initiatives with special emphasis on pursuit of strategies to secure or increase giving from donors.

• Attend Padua Academy events and activities and foster excitement for fundraising efforts.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven track record of fundraising success in securing major gifts, managing campaigns, and engaging a community of motivated supporters.

• Minimum of 7-10+ years of increasing responsibility in non-profit fundraising, preferably within a school setting.

• Excellent managerial skills including at least 5 years of previous experience managing development staff.

• Ability to balance multiple priorities in a complex environment.

• Working knowledge of development best practices, trends in Catholic and independent school education, and development, and fundraising tools and technology.

• Commitment to the values of the Catholic faith.

• Deep appreciation and understanding of the mission of Padua Academy and ability to articulate its values and vision internally and externally.

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, Communications, or other related field required. Master’s degree preferred. Experience in Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge a plus.

How to Apply

Candidates for this position should submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references to Mr. Michael Julian at mjulian@paduaacademy.org

About Padua Academy

Rooted in the Catholic faith, Padua Academy offers young women a transformational college preparatory education, challenging them to live Christ-centered lives of leadership and service. For additional information about Padua Academy, please visit our website at www.paduaacademy.org