Director of Development

Director of Development at Cardinal Kung Academy Director of Development at Cardinal Kung Academy in Darien, Connecticut Posted in about 23 hours ago.

Type:

full-time

Job Description:

Director of Development Cardinal Kung Academy (CKA), a growing independent Catholic classical school serving grades 6-12, seeks a mission-driven professional to serve as its first Director of Development . This pivotal role offers an exceptional opportunity to build and lead the school's advancement program in service of its mission: forming students in faith, reason, and virtue through the riches of the Catholic intellectual tradition. About Cardinal Kung Academy Founded in 2018, CKA provides a rigorous classical education rooted in fidelity to the Magisterium of the Catholic Church. Named in honor of Cardinal Ignatius Kung Pin-Mei-a modern confessor of the faith-CKA fosters intellectual excellence, spiritual depth, and moral integrity. The Academy's community of families, faculty, and benefactors shares a commitment to cultivating saints and scholars for the renewal of the Church and the world. The Opportunity As the inaugural Director of Development, the successful candidate will establish the structures, strategies, and relationships necessary to sustain and expand the Academy's mission. Reporting to the Head of School, the Director will oversee all aspects of fundraising, including the annual fund, major gifts, foundation support, special events, and donor stewardship. The position requires a visionary leader capable of building a comprehensive advancement program from the ground up while embodying the school's Catholic identity and culture of gratitude. Primary Responsibilities Design and implement a multi-year development plan to strengthen annual, major, and planned giving. Build the infrastructure for a successful development office that will sustain the mission for years to come. Cultivate and steward relationships with parents, foundations, and community members. Prepare compelling cases for support, donor communications, and stewardship materials. Organize our annual fundraising gala and develop engagement initiatives that deepen community participation. Partner with the Head of School and Board of Directors in identifying and soliciting leadership gifts. Manage donor data, acknowledgments, and reporting with excellence and discretion. Collaborate with admissions and communications to advance CKA's mission visibility. Qualifications Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred. 5+ years of experience in successful fundraising experience. Demonstrated success in executing a moves management strategy, securing major gifts, and building donor relationships. Knowledgeable of the necessary revenue streams of a growing development office: annual fund, major gifts, grants and foundations, events, and more. Superior written, interpersonal, and organizational skills. Proficiency with donor management systems (Blackbaud) and fundraising best practices. Commitment to the Catholic faith and to the mission of Catholic classical education. Entrepreneurial spirit, strategic mindset, and the ability to lead with joy and integrity. Compensation and Benefits Competitive salary commensurate with experience. Comprehensive benefits package, including health and retirement options. Professional development opportunities. A collaborative, faith-filled community dedicated to truth and virtue.