Highlands School is a vibrant leader in independent education in the Birmingham metropolitan region. Highlands School's whole-child focused academic program – guided by a comprehensive emphasis on physical, social-emotional, creative, and intellectual development – educates and inspires students in preschool through 8th grade. The School was founded in 1958 and holds dual accreditation with the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and Cognia.
Position Overview: Highlands School is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Development to lead our fundraising efforts and foster strong relationships within our community. The ideal candidate will be responsible for ensuring that our annual fundraising goals are met or exceeded, planning and executing a variety of fundraising events, and engaging with alumni, parents, and the broader community. This role also serves as the primary liaison to the Parent Auxiliary. This is a full-time, 12-month senior administrative position, reporting to the Head of School.
Key Responsibilities:
Fundraising: Develop and implement strategies to meet or exceed annual fundraising goals. The Highlands Fund is a critical component of the school’s annual budget and supports the operating budget.
Major Gifts: The Director will identify, cultivate, and solicit major donors to help Highlands School achieve its fundraising goals.
Strategic Goals: The Director will work closely with all relevant team members to develop and implement strategic goals and initiatives for fundraising, alumni engagement, parent relations, and development communications.
Event Planning: Plan, organize, and execute fundraising and community events throughout the school year, including the bi-annual Highlands School auction. The Director will also work closely with the Parent Auxiliary to plan school-wide events.
Community Engagement: Foster strong relationships with alumni, parents, and Highlands School community members to support the school's mission and fundraising efforts. As part of this, the Director will also serve as the primary liaison to the Parent Association, ensuring effective communication and collaboration.
Donor Relations: Cultivate and maintain relationships with current and potential donors, ensuring they are informed and engaged with the school's activities and needs.
Alumni Development & Engagement: Develop and promote active alumni engagement through regular communications including social media, alumni activities and programs, and maintaining/expanding current alumni database.
Reporting: Prepare regular reports on fundraising activities, progress towards goals, and the impact of funds raised for the Head of School and Highlands School Board of Trustees.
Additional Responsibilities:
Collaborate with the Director of Marketing and Communications to draft and publish school-wide fundraising communications, including videos, campaign materials, alumni newsletters, and the Annual Report
Craft gift proposals and grants
Plan the annual Highlands School graduation ceremony
Manage Grade Level Parent outreach and processes along with the help of the Parents Auxiliary President
Serve as the school liaison to the Advancement Board Committee
Manage departmental budget and reconcile monthly to ensure gift records are correct
Being a visible presence in all aspects of school life, programs, activities, etc.
Some limited night and weekend work may be required
Other duties as needed and assigned by the Head of School
Preferred Qualities and Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in a related field; advanced degree preferred.
Proven experience in fundraising, event planning, and donor relations
Working knowledge of Raiser’s Edge and Microsoft Excel
Established connections within the Highlands School and/or Birmingham communities
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Strong organizational and project management abilities
Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups, including staff, volunteers, and community members
Ability to maintain confidentiality and sensitivity
Passion for education and the mission of Highlands School
Finalists will also be asked to submit a writing sample and complete a background check.
Highlands School is a vibrant leader in independent education in the Birmingham, AL metropolitan region. Highlands School’s whole-child focused academic program – guided by a comprehensive emphasis on physical, social-emotional, creative and intellectual development – educates and inspires students in preschool through 8th grade. The School was founded in 1958 and holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS).
