Director of Development (Medina)

Carney, Sandoe & Associates, an educational recruitment organization partnered with St. Thomas School , a PreK-8 grades independent school to find their next Director of Development, in Medina, Washington. 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. Key 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.

Desired Qualities and Qualifications: 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.

Potential Benefits: Compensation and benefit packages are competitive but will differ by school and will typically depend on geographic location, your experience, and your level of degree. Competitive pay