Development & External Affairs Leader — Strategic Growth

KIPP Foundation; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 128,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

KIPP Baltimore is seeking a Senior Director of Development & External Affairs to lead fundraising, external affairs, and strategic partnerships. This executive will work closely with the Executive Director to grow philanthropic revenue, steward major donors, and shape the organization’s growth trajectory.

The role emphasizes equity, cross-functional leadership, and a strong public-facing presence to advance community impact and educational opportunity for students and families.

Qualifications

• At least 8–10 years of progressive leadership in development, advancement, education administration, nonprofit management, or public affairs.
• Proven record of securing and stewarding measurably impactful partnerships, major gifts, and institutional grants.
• Experience leading multi-functional teams and strategic planning processes.
• Exceptional communication skills and political acumen.
• Demonstrated enthusiasm for serving as a visible ambassador and advocate for KIPP Baltimore’s students, alumni, staff, community, vision, and values.
• Deep belief in educational equity and the mission of KIPP Baltimore.

Responsibilities

• Lead fundraising strategy to meet annual philanthropic revenue goals and multi-year capital targets.
• Cultivate top donors and maintain a robust major gifts and institutional giving pipeline.
• Oversee development operations, including gift processing, data management (Salesforce), prospect research, and grant reporting.
• Represent KIPP Baltimore in civic spaces and build strategic partnerships for visibility and impact.
• Develop and implement an integrated communications plan to elevate the organization’s mission and drive engagement.
• Lead the Development & External Affairs team and collaborate across departments to align strategies with organizational priorities.

Skills

Fundraising leadership

Donor cultivation

Strategic planning

Board liaison

Grant management

Staff management

Communication

Public affairs

Salesforce

Tools

Salesforce

Job description

KIPP Baltimore is seeking a Senior Director of Development & External Affairs to lead fundraising, external affairs, and strategic partnerships. This executive will work closely with the Executive Director to grow philanthropic revenue, steward major donors, and shape the organization’s growth trajectory.

The role emphasizes equity, cross-functional leadership, and a strong public-facing presence to advance community impact and educational opportunity for students and families.