Development Position

Development Manager:

Ezra Academy is an outstanding Preschool-8th Grade Jewish Day School currently serving about 120 students and located in Woodbridge, Connecticut.

JOB SUMMARY 

Ezra Academy seeks an experienced, energetic, organized fundraiser with excellent communication skills to manage the annual fund, special events, manage school communications in matters relating to Development events, and coordinate all other development and “friend-raising” functions. Ezra Academy is a small school, as such,  this position has primary responsibility for all fundraising activities and is directed by the head of school and assisted by trustees and parent volunteers.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Coordinate all fundraising efforts, including the annual campaign and the annual Gala, and other fundraising and ‘friend-raising’ events with support from volunteer Development committee, Head of School, parents, and school staff, as appropriate.
• Cultivate and interact with donors, managing donor information, managing acknowledgement of all contributions, and coordinating special recognition at different levels of giving, always placing a premium on establishing and sustaining strong relationships. 
• Maintain and update the content of development databases, the development pages on the school website and the school’s social media accounts to help promote the school’s online presence. 
• Work with the Head of School to develop donor relations and, ultimately, solicit donations. Annual fund target ranges from $300,000-$450,000.
• Work with the Head of School to develop Alumni programs and enhance Alumni engagement
• Provide support to the Development Committee, including managing the annual fundraising calendar, taking minutes at the weekly Development meeting, staffing development events, and preparing financial and other reports as needed
• Assist the Development Committee with researching opportunities for corporate and foundation sponsorships and grants and assist the Head of School with grant applications
• Undertake other fundraising duties as assigned by the Head of School and as requested by the Development Committee

QUALIFICATIONS

Ezra Academy is interested in applicants who have:

• 2-4 years of experience in Development, (private school setting is a plus)
• Bachelor’s Degree or higher
• A sincere commitment to work collaboratively with all constituent groups, including staff, administration, Board members, teachers, and parents.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including strong presentation skills.
• Excellent working knowledge of software applications including Microsoft Office suite, Google drive,  and the ability to learn and manage the school’s donor management database.
• An enthusiastic commitment to Ezra Academy’s mission and values.
• Facility with planning, prioritizing, multi-tasking, organizing and following through, while remaining highly energetic and focused.
• A straightforward, self-motivated and diplomatic orientation – sharing information readily, listening as well as giving advice, and respecting the abilities of others.
• Basic knowledge of financial planning, tax and charitable gift laws, and planned giving vehicles.
• Preferred: Experience with Development software