Chief Advancement Officer - Alumni & Development

Woodland School (Independent School in Portola Valley); Portola Valley (CA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Woodland School in Portola Valley seeks a Director of Development and Alumni Relations to lead a comprehensive fundraising program across Annual Fund, events, major gifts, and grants. The role collaborates with the leadership team to engage trustees, parents, and alumni in advancing Woodland’s mission.

The incumbent will oversee grant writing, donor relations, and community engagement, while guiding volunteer leadership and staff toward ambitious income goals.

Qualifications

• Proven track record of raising funds from individuals and foundations.
• Minimum of 3 years of Development experience, preferably in an independent educational institution.
• Experience with annual giving, major gifts, grants, and capital campaigns.
• Excellent planning, project management, and organizational skills.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and travel as needed.

Responsibilities

• Reports to the Head of School and serves on the Leadership Team and Advancement Committee.
• Designs, implements, and oversees a comprehensive fundraising program from trustee, parent, alumni, foundation, and donor sources.
• Oversees recurring fundraising activities including Annual Fund, events, and grants to meet income goals.
• Leads donor identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship efforts.
• Presents annual development plans to the Board and Head of School.

Skills

Fundraising leadership

Major gifts

Board engagement

Strategic planning

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Google Suite

eTapestry

Job description

Woodland School in Portola Valley seeks a Director of Development and Alumni Relations to lead a comprehensive fundraising program across Annual Fund, events, major gifts, and grants. The role collaborates with the leadership team to engage trustees, parents, and alumni in advancing Woodland’s mission.

The incumbent will oversee grant writing, donor relations, and community engagement, while guiding volunteer leadership and staff toward ambitious income goals.