Director of Development

Director of Development Upper Montclair, NJ Job Details Full-time 1 day ago Benefits AD&D insurance Health insurance Dental insurance Tuition reimbursement 403(b) Life insurance Qualifications Project reporting Managerial strategic planning Alumni relations (outreach initiatives) Strategic management Non-profit experience Raiser's Edge Volunteer management Event coordination 5 years Major gifts Data reporting Performance management Team management Fundraising event program management Student advising Senior level Leadership Communication skills Progress tracking (project management tasks) Volunteer engagement program management Senior leadership Full Job Description Full-Time Reports to:

Director of Advancement and Enrollment Management Lacordaire Academy, Montclair, NJ Start Date:

July 1, 2026 Position Overview The Director of Development serves as the senior leader of the Development Office and reports to the Director of Advancement and Enrollment Management. This individual's primary responsibility is to build and grow a major gifts program, while also overseeing annual giving, alumni engagement, and fundraising events in support of the Academy's overall philanthropic goals. The Director will manage a portfolio of donors and prospects, supervise development staff, and ensure strong coordination, accountability, and forward momentum across all advancement initiatives. This role is designed for a polished, highly organized advancement professional who is comfortable in donor-facing environments and confident in leading conversations around giving. Primary Responsibilities Major Gifts (Primary Focus) Build, manage, and grow a portfolio of leadership and major gift prospects Cultivate, solicit, and steward donors in partnership with senior leadership Develop and execute individualized strategies for donor cultivation and solicitation Identify and support major gift opportunities for senior leadership Fundraising Strategy and Annual Giving Develop and implement an annual development plan aligned with institutional priorities Provide strategic direction for the annual fund, with execution supported by the Assistant Director of Development Oversee tracking and reporting of progress toward fundraising goals Alumni Engagement Provide strategic direction for alumni engagement initiatives, in partnership with the Assistant Director of Development and the Development and Alumni Engagement Associate Support the development of alumni volunteer and ambassador programs Partner with Communications to elevate alumni visibility and storytelling Events and Donor Experience Provide leadership and direction for all fundraising events, in partnership with the development team Ensure events are financially sound, mission-aligned, and relationship-driven Represent the Academy confidently and professionally in both formal and social settings Build strong relationships with parents, alumni, and community partners Team Leadership Supervise the Assistant Director of Development and the Development and Alumni Engagement Associate Establish clear performance goals and accountability systems Ensure strong coordination and communication within the Development Office Qualifications 5-10 years of experience in development, fundraising, nonprofit advancement, or related field Experience participating in or leading major gift cultivation and solicitation Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills Excellent organizational and project management abilities Professional presence and confidence in donor-facing environments Ability to balance strategic thinking with effective execution Experience with Blackbaud and Raiser's Edge strongly preferred, with the ability to effectively use and interpret data to support fundraising efforts Commitment to the mission of Catholic independent education Benefits Lacordaire Academy offers a comprehensive benefits package. In addition, the Academy values work-life balance and provides: Summer hours schedule Two-week summer campus closure (in addition to regular vacation time) School holidays, including Winter Break and Spring Break (in addition to regular vacation time) Flexibility for remote work when responsibilities allow A collaborative, mission-driven environment within a small, relationship-centered school community How to Apply Please submit a resume and cover letter to:

Attn:

Saydi Callahan Keefe Director of Advancement and Enrollment Management Teaching at Lacordaire Desired candidates interested in joining our teaching team will be individuals who: Uphold the mission, beliefs and values of the Academy and the Dominican spirit Engage joyfully in their work Value and celebrate diversity and commit to creating a sense of belonging for all Be committed to lifelong learning for students and self, and seek ongoing opportunities for professional growth Exhibit flexibility, initiative, motivation, and the ability to be a team player Support and develop a challenging, innovative, and engaging curriculum Collaborate with the evaluation and design of department curriculum Apply knowledge of best practices in instruction, assessment, & classroom management Strive to create a supportive and inclusive classroom culture Identify and support students' academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs Contribute to community building by serving as a student advisor and activity moderator Actively collaborate, seek partnerships, and communicate effectively with all constituents Demonstrate strong organizational, interpersonnel, and communication skills Maintain a spirit of humor and compassion Take the

Next Step:

Lacordaire Academy values all employees and candidates as unique individuals, and we welcome the variety of experiences and perspectives they bring to our community. We are an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Interested applicants should forward their resume, cover letter, and copy of certifications to the Associate Head of School, Suzanne Bilicska, at . List of 1 frequently asked questions. Employee Benefits Lacordaire Academy is a special place to work and grow as a professional. We value the work and dedication of our teachers, staff, and administrators, and as a result are continually seeking ways to acknowledge and recognize them. Full time employee benefits include, but are not limited to: Small class sizes in a supportive, faith based environment Life & AD&D Insurance Health and Dental Coverage 403B plan options with employer contributions Tuition remission for children Tuition reimbursement for ongoing education Opportunities to engage in professional development Working in the beautiful township of Montclair, easily accessible by train and bus lines, and located off of many major highways, the area has lots to offer including entertainment, dining, shopping, culture, arts, nature, and more! Lacordaire Academy is an independent Catholic school, sponsored by the Sisters of Saint Dominic of Caldwell. The Academy has a long standing legacy of excellence in curriculum and community, serving a diverse student population of students in our coed PreK through 8 and our all girls 9th through 12th grade. Guided by our mission, we aim to develop critical and innovative thinkers who are empowered and equipped to be global citizens of strong moral character.