Director of Advancement

Director of Advancement – Forsyth School

If you are energized by advancing a vibrant, collaborative elementary school community committed to  kindness, compassion, curiosity, and questioning then Forsyth School is looking for you.

At Forsyth, our mission is to foster a spirit of curiosity and joy, empowering children to pursue challenges with confidence. Our Honor Code is embedded in the fabric of our institution, reminding us of our commitment to making Forsyth a special place.

POSITION SUMMARY

Forsyth School seeks a thoughtful, dynamic philanthropic leader to guide our school community through exciting years of growth and development ahead. As the Director of Advancement, you will deepen a culture of joyful giving and appreciation across many diverse constituencies. This role oversees a comprehensive fundraising program, including the annual fund, special events, major gifts, and alumni relations, working closely alongside the Campaign Manager to ensure alignment and support for all initiatives.

OPPORTUNITIES (TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES)

• Strategic Leadership and Oversight
  • Lead the overall advancement strategy, ensuring all activities align with Forsyth’s mission and strategic goals.
  • Collaborate with the Campaign Manager to support campaign activities and integrate them into the broader advancement strategy.
  • Manage the advancement budget and develop donor recognition plans, including gift naming opportunities and policies.
• Fundraising and Donor Relations
  • Oversee and manage the annual fund, major gifts, special events, and alumni relations programs.
  • Cultivate and maintain relationships with donors, alumni, parents, and other stakeholders, fostering a culture of giving and appreciation.
  • Develop and implement strategies for identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors.
• Collaboration and Community Engagement
  • Work closely with the Head of School, Board of Trustees, Parent Organization, faculty, staff, and other internal and external partners to guide and motivate fundraising success.
  • Collaborate with admissions and communications colleagues to enhance the school’s visibility, reputation, and culture.
• Advancement Materials and Communication
  • Produce key advancement materials, including case statements, policy statements, major gift prospectuses, and solicitation guidelines.
  • Oversee the creation of advancement collateral, such as brochures, presentations, stationery, newsletters, press releases, and FAQ guides.
  • Develop and implement an advancement communications strategy, ensuring alignment with overall school messaging.
• Team Leadership and Development
  • Lead and mentor a team of two advancement professionals, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.
  • Provide regular updates and reports to the Head of School, Board of Trustees, and other stakeholders, tracking advancement statistics, evaluating progress based on benchmarks, and recommending adjustments as necessary.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• At least 7-10 years of professional experience, including significant development experience
• Knowledge of major gift fundraising best practices
• Prior campaign and volunteer management experience
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in locating and synthesizing material from multiple sources
• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality
• Attention to detail
• Well-developed sense of curiosity, ingenuity, perseverance, and good judgment
• Appreciation for and demonstrated commitment to Forsyth School’s mission and values

ABOUT FORSYTH SCHOOL

Located in St. Louis, Missouri, Forsyth is an age 2 – Grade 6, co-ed independent school of 380 students. The campus is bordered by Washington University and Forest Park, one of the largest city parks in the nation and home to many of the city’s great cultural institutions, including free museums, a world-class zoo, and a thriving food and music scene. Forsyth’s unique facilities, six stately historic homes, all built in the 1920s and 30s, have been transformed into classrooms and community spaces. These nurturing, intimate spaces, as well as excellent teaching, have made challenge and high expectations for students the center of Forsyth’s ethos since its origin in 1961.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

This is a full-time, salary exempt position eligible for Forsyth’s full benefits package including; medical, dental, life, retirement match, education benefits, EAP, and other fringe benefits. Compensation is competitive and based on experience. Start date is flexible and the position will remain open until filled.

HOW TO APPLY

In your application, please submit a cover letter (addressed to Head of School, Rob Butler), resume, three to five professional references, and any other supporting materials. Candidates will be informed before references are contacted. Please apply here.

Forsyth School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, disability, veteran status, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomics, family composition, genetic information, citizenship, national and ethnic origin, or on the basis of any other protected status. Candidates from groups traditionally underrepresented in independent schools are encouraged to apply.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Please submit your materials as soon as possible via the online application system. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Assistant Head of School for Finance and Operations, Liz McDonald.

Forsyth’s background screening process requires employees to undergo a social media check, satisfactory reference checks with prior and current employers, and a successful criminal background screening including fingerprinting.