Careers

Position: Director of Annual Giving
Supervisor: Chief Advancement Officer
Location: South Kent, Connecticut
Status: Full-Time

South Kent School prepares young men to succeed in college and thrive as thoughtful and engaged citizens in a rapidly changing and intensely competitive world.

South Kent School, established in 1923, is a college preparatory school for boys in grades 9 through 12, nestled in the hills of picturesque northwestern Connecticut. South Kent School’s academic, athletic, and community life programs align to develop thriving young men. Using our contemporary expertise in male adolescent education, we are constantly evolving and adapting our instruction to ensure we are providing students with the skills and character development they need to succeed in college and the world beyond.

Job Summary: The Director of Annual Giving plays a central role in advancing South Kent School’s fundraising strategy by leading The South Kent Fund’s efforts to successfully achieve year-over-year growth through the annual fund and related initiatives. This position is responsible for building strong relationships with parents, alumni, and friends of the School while driving annual operating revenue growth through strategic solicitations, stewardship, and fundraising events. The Director of Annual Giving will be expected to meet established fundraising revenue goals annually, ensuring that philanthropic support continues to grow and to do so in a highly ethical manner, subscribing to industry best practices.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Fundraising & Strategy
  
  • Lead and manage all aspects of The South Kent Fund, with a clear focus on dollars, participation, and overall growth of the program.
  • Oversee the development and execution of all South Kent Fund solicitation materials, including print, digital, and social media content to deliver consistent donor messaging, campaign branding, and impact storytelling.
  • Provide regular progress reports on Annual Fund performance, donor participation, and projections.

  Donor Engagement & Stewardship

  • Partner with the Chief Advancement Officer and Head of School to cultivate and steward meaningful relationships with alumni, parents, and friends, encouraging sustained and increased giving.
  • Coordinate with the Director of Alumni Operations and Stewardship to ensure timely and thoughtful donor acknowledgment and stewardship.
  • Manage the production of the Annual Donor Report, ensuring accuracy, recognition, and donor satisfaction.

  Campaigns & Events

  • Partner with the Chief Advancement Officer and Head of School to design and implement appropriate solicitation and engagement strategies for all constituencies.
  • Oversee logistics and donor engagement strategies for Giving Days, Alumni Weekend, Prize Day, and regional/alumni gatherings ensuring successful participation and fundraising outcomes.

  Team & Institutional Collaboration

  • Carry out additional responsibilities as assigned by the Chief Advancement Officer or Head of School.

Job Education and Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and 3+ years of related experience, preferably in an educational or similar setting.
• Possesses excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills, with the ability to be analytical, creative, professional, and persuasive with a wide range of constituencies. Experience and/or skills sufficient to prepare, produce, and statistically analyze trends and create and deliver reports.
• Capable of editing and producing error-free copy for a variety of platforms with an institutional voice, often on a tight timeline
• Strong management skills, both strategic and operational, and a demonstrated ability to manage projects, processes, and people.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and creatively with individuals and a team.
• Possesses skills to navigate various social media platforms, design software, and websites.
• Proficiency in use of technology: Raiser’s Edge database (NXT/BlackBaud), GiveCampus, Senior Systems, iWave Donor Prospecting, Google, and Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including ability to effectively communicate with internal and external customers.
• Must be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines, while maintaining a positive attitude and providing exemplary customer service. Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends
• Ability to work independently and to carry out assignments to completion within parameters of instructions given, prescribed routines, and standard accepted practices.

Compensation

Compensation is competitive and includes meals when school is in session. Health and retirement benefits, including TIAA-CREF, are part of the compensation package. Funding exists to support advanced degree work, as well participation in professional growth opportunities such as conferences and workshops.

All interested applicants should submit their cover letter, resume, references, and any questions to South Kent School at the following: [email protected].

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job.  It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or physical requirements.  Nothing in this job description restricts the School’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

South Kent School is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive and safe environment for all employees.