Director of Development

Divine Mercy Academy (DMA) is a Catholic Classical Montessori school for children ages 3-12. We strive to make a Christ-centered, Catholic education available to all income levels and educational needs. The mission of Divine Mercy Academy is to provide an educational environment for all children that inspires trust in Jesus Christ, a life of virtue, and faith in the Catholic Church. DMA is always looking for disciples of Jesus with a heart for others, particularly for children in an educational setting.

DMA is looking to add a new Development Director to help the school keep up with demand. The Development Director will be the person within the organization primarily responsible for raising funds so DMA can successfully execute its mission to serve all children.

The Development Director will work with benefactors, donors, member families, priests, parishes, businesses, grants and foundations to educate, advocate, consult, and design win-win solutions between donors and the Academy to help fuel the mission and vision of DMA.

The position is likely a hybrid (in school/from home) position, reports to the Board of Directors, and is part of a larger team that includes board members, the Head of School, school staff, and volunteers.

The ideal candidate will:
-Be a person of high character, integrity, and honesty.
-Be able to perform the job responsibilities within the mission, vision, and core values of the Academy.
-Have the ability and willingness to be a part of a team.
-Be insatiably curious and have the capacity to learn.
-Have a tremendous work ethic with the willingness to do whatever it takes to serve God through the Academy.
-Hold themselves accountable for their growth and success
-Manage their time effectively.
-Exhibit exemplary communication in person, on the phone, and in writing.
-Believe in the mission and vision of the school.

Duties/Responsibilities:
-Work with the Board of Directors and Head of School to set annual monetary goals and budgets according to short- and long-term goals.
-Determine and execute best fundraising strategies, markets, channels, and methods.
-Establish and execute fundraising objectives for the organization, setting 1-year, 5-year, and longer-term goals.
-Maintain a list of potential financial donors including corporations, foundations, and individuals.
-Contribute to the production of relevant and informative fundraising literature for distribution to previous donors and the public.
-Research potential sources of, and apply for, grants and public funding.
-Oversee the fundraising process and maintain records of receipts and disbursements of funds.
-Plan fundraising events that effectively communicate the purposes of the organization.
-Attend all relevant conferences and events as a representative of the Academy, attendee, and/or exhibitor.
-Network in communities sympathetic to the mission of DMA.
-Call, set appointments, and conduct meetings with potential donors and benefactors.
-Create monthly, quarterly, and annual reports for Academy leadership, benefactors, and families.
-Work within the boundaries of the teachings of the Catholic Church.
-Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:
-Extensive knowledge of fundraising strategies and principles.
-Excellent management and supervisory skills.
-Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
-Excellent interpersonal skills.
-Strong knowledge and support of DMA, its vision, mission, and core values.
-An exemplary commitment and witness to the Catholic Church through a life of prayer, sacraments, scripture, evangelization, and community.
-Knowledge of tax planning principles and techniques that favor charitable giving.
-Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or similar software.

Education and Experience:
Bachelor's degree required (Theology, Philosophy, Communications, Finance, Accounting, or similar field a plus).
Three or more years of experience in fundraising for a nonprofit organization preferred.

Physical Requirements:
Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Must be able to lift 30 pounds at times.

Travel Requirements:
Regular daily travel for meetings will be expected, so a reliable vehicle is required.
Infrequent overnight travel, as necessary to achieve goals, may be necessary.

Learn more about the academy at https://www.divinemercyacademywi.org/