Chief Advancement Officer

Women in Development of Greater Boston; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 290,000 - 310,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

403(b) retirement plan

Commuter benefits

Childcare support

Paid time off

Job summary

Buckingham Browne & Nichols School (BB&N) in Cambridge, MA, seeks a Chief Advancement Officer to advance its fundraising agenda and 100M campaign momentum. Reporting to the Head of School, the CAO will be a strategic partner, a hands-on fundraiser, and an inspiring manager who leads from the front.

The CAO sets the strategy for annual giving and alumni relations, manages a portfolio of high-value prospects, cultivates a culture of philanthropy, and works to align the community around BB&N's

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent, plus 10+ years of advancement experience.
• Progressively responsible advancement leadership required.

Responsibilities

• Set strategic direction for annual giving and alumni relations.
• Manage a portfolio of high-value prospects and donors.
• Cultivate a culture of philanthropy and partnership within the BB&N community.

Skills

fundraising leadership

portfolio management

alumni relations

annual giving

ambitious goals

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Job description

Salary: $290,000.00 - $310,000.00 Annually

Application Deadline: N/A

ZRG Aspen Leadership Group is proud to partner with Buckingham Browne & Nichols School (BB&N) in the search for a Chief Advancement Officer.

Reporting to the Head of School, the Chief Advancement Officer (CAO) will be a confident, highly capable fundraising leader who can build on the momentum of a historic $100M campaign and help shape the institution's next chapter. They will be a strategic thought partner with the Head of School, an effective and inspiring manager, and a hands-on fundraiser: someone who is energized by ambitious goals, comfortable operating at the highest levels of the organization, and eager to lead from the front.

The CAO will serve as a key ambassador for the school, cultivating a culture of philanthropy and partnership among alumni, parents, and the entire community. The CAO will set the strategic direction for annual giving and alumni relations programs, manage a portfolio of high-value prospects, and foster widespread engagement among all constituents. The successful candidate will bring the credibility, drive, and fundraising acumen needed to inspire board confidence, motivate a strong team, and advance a compelling vision for BB&N's future.

Buckingham Browne & Nichols is a coeducational, independent day school located in Cambridge, MA, serving 1,045 students from Pre-K through Grade 12. Enrolling students from more than 80 towns/cities in the region, BB&N ranks among the finest independent day schools in the country. Founded in 1974, the school has built a rich tradition of academic excellence rooted in its motto: “Honor, Scholarship, Kindness.” Its multicultural student body mirrors the vibrant energy of Cambridge and the innovative spirit of the Greater Boston, MA region.

Today, BB&N is well-positioned to build on its successful, 143-year legacy. The school operates with an annual budget of $67 million, manages an endowment of more than $125 million, and provides more than $12.5M in financial aid annually to approximately 25% of its students. Enrollment trends remain strong, and the school experienced a record-high level of philanthropic giving in 2025-26. Academically, the school continues to add to its tradition of excellence, investing deeply in supporting its superb team of educators through professional growth and career advancement opportunities, as well as promoting innovative teaching and learning throughout its three campuses.

A bachelor's degree—or an equivalent combination of education and experience—and at least 10 years of progressively responsible advancement experience is required for this role.BB&N will consider candidates with a broad range of backgrounds. If you are excited about this role and feel that you can contribute to BB&N, but your experience does not exactly align with every qualification listed above, we encourage you to apply. All applications must be accompanied by a cover letter and résumé. Cover letters should be responsive to the mission of BB&N and the responsibilities and qualifications specified in the position prospectus.

The salary range for this position is $290,000 to $310,000. BB&N offers a comprehensive package of benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 403(b)-retirement plan with employer contributions, commuter benefits, childcare support, and generous paid time off.

BB&N is committed to the inclusion of all qualified candidates. If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or participating in the selection process, please contact Don Hasseltine at [e-mail] or Ian McCray at [e-mail].