Development Director

Pacific Northern Academy, Inc; Anchorage (AK); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Pacific Northern Academy, Inc in Anchorage, Alaska is seeking a Development Director who will provide strategic leadership for the school's comprehensive development program. This role leads fundraising efforts, oversees major events, and builds relationships with donors to advance the school's mission.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in fundraising, exceptional relationship-building skills, and the ability to articulate PNA’s goals and mission. Proficiency in Google Workspace and experience in academic fundraising are preferred. This position may require flexibility to work evenings and weekends.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated success securing and stewarding donor relationships.
• Engaging, energetic, social and charismatic leadership.
• Strong knowledge of fundraising best practices, including donor research and capital campaigns.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a multi-year development plan.
• Lead a comprehensive development program including major gifts and campaigns.
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulations.

Skills

Fundraising best practices

Relationship-building

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Tools

CRM system

Google Workspace

Job description

Please contact Elizabeth Ferry, Assistant Head of School, at [e-mail] , to learn more about the school, the position, and next steps. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!

The Development Director provides strategic leadership for Pacific Northern Academy’s comprehensive development program, fostering a strong culture of philanthropy to advance the school’s mission, and strategic plan. Reporting to the Head of School and serving on the Administrative Team, the Development Director leads fundraising efforts across all constituencies and gift types, builds a diversified funding base, and oversees major fundraising events.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategy, Planning, and Leadership
• Develop and execute a strategic, multi-year development plan and annual budget aligned with the Head of School and Board of Trustees.
• Establish and achieve short- and long-term (3–5 year) development goals across constituencies, functional areas, and gift types.
• Collaborate with senior leadership—including the Head of School, Business Manager, Enrollment Director, and Academic leaders—to integrate development into other strategic priorities.

Fundraising and Donor Engagement:

• Lead a comprehensive development program including annual fund, major gifts, planned giving, grants, campaigns, and special events.
• Steward relationships with individuals, corporations, and foundations, with particular focus on major donors.
• Represent PNA to donors, volunteers, and community groups to advance fundraising goals.
• Attend and participate in local community events (rotary, chamber of commerce, etc) to develop relationships and further PNAs mission.

Team Management and Operations:

• Ensure compliance with applicable regulations.
• Compile and maintain accurate donor records, reporting, and data analysis through effective use of the school’s CRM system.
• Partner with the Admin Team to ensure timely reconciliation, reporting, and financial accuracy.

Qualifications:

• Demonstrated success securing and stewarding donor relationships.
• Engaging, energetic, social and charismatic leadership
• Strong knowledge of fundraising best practices, including donor research, capital campaigns, portfolio management, and the major gifts cycle.
• Exceptional relationship-building, communication, and presentation skills.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage budgets and work plans.
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality.
• Proficiency with Google Workspace
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed.
• Passion for and ability to articulate PNA’s mission, and strategic goals.
• CFRE and/or experience in academic fundraising preferred.