Director of Development

Reports To: Head of School

Supervises: Assistant Director of Development and Administrative Assistant to Development

Schedule: Full-time, year-round, including school breaks

Start Date: 7/1/26, with some flexibility on exact dates

Job Summary:

The Director of Development leads the strategy, planning, and execution of all fundraising efforts at St. Thomas School (STS). This role is responsible for strengthening a culture of giving across the school community while building meaningful, long-term relationships with current families, alumni, grandparents, trustees, and community partners. The director serves as a strategic partner to the Head of School and senior leadership, helping ensure philanthropic efforts directly support the school’s mission, strategic priorities, and long-term sustainability. This position oversees annual giving, major gifts, events, alumni engagement, and donor stewardship, while also leading and mentoring the development team.

General Responsibilities:

• Leads the strategy, planning, and execution of all fundraising efforts, including annual giving, auctions, capital campaigns, major gift campaigns, and planned giving. 
• Develops and maintains the infrastructure, policies, and procedures that support sustainable, ethical, and effective fundraising practices. 
• Partners closely with the Head of School, senior leadership, and the board of trustees to shape strategy, cultivate relationships, and support major gift solicitation. 
• Manages a portfolio of major gift prospects.
• Manages and supports the Head of School’s cultivation and solicitation efforts.
• Cultivates and personally solicits leadership Annual Fund prospects.
• Educates the school’s constituencies about development and fundraising activities, with a particular emphasis on new parents.
• Collaborates closely with marketing and communications, as well as admissions, to support school-wide efforts to engage parents and faculty in the life of the school.
• Develops activities and strategies that support a sense of community and belonging.   
• Leads, mentors, and supports development department staff, setting clear goals, priorities, and performance metrics.
• Partners with the Assistant Director of Development on the annual report and other key advancement communications. 
• Actively engages in the life of the school and contributes to community-wide events and programs. 
• Upholds and models the mission, values, and strategic priorities of STS. 
• Demonstrates respect for diverse perspectives and a commitment to equity and inclusion. 
• Communicates effectively and professionally with students, families, and colleagues. 
• Collaborates across departments and participates in team and division meetings to support a cohesive preschool through eighth grade experience. 
• Maintains confidentiality and handles sensitive information with discretion. 
• Adheres to school policies and procedures and performs other duties as assigned by the Head of School. 

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field; master’s degree preferred.
• Substantial experience working in fundraising, advancement, or development, preferably in an independent school, education, or nonprofit setting.
• Demonstrated success cultivating and soliciting major gifts.

• Background leading or supporting capital or comprehensive campaigns.
• Experience supervising, mentoring, or leading staff.
• Familiarity with donor databases and CRM systems, such as Veracross or Raiser’s Edge
• Willingness to travel locally as needed.
• Readiness to obtain First Aid and CPR certification, and maintain throughout employment
• Successful completion of required background checks in accordance with school policy and state regulations.
• Demonstrated cultural competency and ability to work with diverse individuals and groups.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with a collaborative, flexible, and growth-oriented mindset.
• Proficiency with basic technology tools and a willingness to learn school-specific systems.
• Commitment to the mission, values, and community of STS.

This description is intended to describe the general content and requirements for the performance of this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements.

Who We Are:

Founded in 1951 and located on the Eastside of Seattle in Medina, Washington, St. Thomas School (STS) is a private, non-sectarian school for preschool through eighth grade students. Our educational journey is defined by a cognitively engaging program with an emphasis on developing character, leadership, and a passion for learning and achievement. Our highly regarded curriculum prepares students to excel at future endeavors while honoring the school’s long-standing core values.

Why St. Thomas School?

You thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment alongside colleagues who share your dedication to innovation, impact, and lifelong learning. You find joy in the energy of children and value being part of something larger than yourself. You are inspired by schools that strive to lead, not follow—and you are excited to work on a LEED Gold-certified campus, equipped with advanced environmental and security systems. At STS, you will join a community committed to excellence, collaboration, and continuous growth.

We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse community where every individual can say, “I belong.” We welcome employees who bring a variety of experiences and perspectives, and who believe that education plays a vital role in advancing equity and inclusion.

We Foster:

• A diverse, safe, and equitable school environment.
• Actions and advocacy that support our Core Virtues.
• Cultural competence, anti-bias, and social justice.
• Intellectually curious and engaged global citizenship.

Benefits:

• Employer-paid premiums for employee medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance.
• Employer contributions to retirement and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).
• Competitive paid time off, holidays, and vacation.
• Robust professional development opportunities.
• Lunches provided at no cost to faculty and staff when school or summer camp is in session.

How to Apply:

Fill out your information under Apply Now. Submit your resume and cover letter explaining why you are interested in and qualified for this position.

Position is open until it is filled. No phone calls or drop-ins please. 

Thank you for your interest in St. Thomas School.