Director of Development

Director of Development

Washington School, Greenville, MS

Washington School is a mission-driven independent private school serving students in grades PreK3-12th grade. We are committed to academic excellence, character development, and preparing students to lead lives of purpose and impact. Our community values collaboration, integrity, and meaningful relationships among students, families, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends of the school.

Position Overview:

The Director of Development provides strategic leadership for all fundraising and advancement initiatives at Washington School. This role is responsible for designing and executing a comprehensive development program that supports the school’s mission, strategic priorities, and long-term financial sustainability. The Director of Development works closely with the Head of School, Development Committee, senior leadership team, and key volunteers to cultivate strong relationships and secure philanthropic support.

Key Responsibilities:

Development Strategy & Leadership

Design and implement a comprehensive annual and long-term development strategy, including annual fund, major gifts, capital campaigns, planned giving, special initiatives, and grant writing.

Serve as a strategic partner to the Head of School and Development Committee on fundraising priorities and donor engagement.

Provide leadership, mentorship, and supervision to development staff and volunteers.

Fundraising & Donor Relations

Manage a portfolio of major gift prospects and donors; personally solicit and steward leadership-level gifts.

Build and maintain strong relationships with parents, alumni, grandparents, foundations, and friends of the school.

Develop stewardship programs that ensure donors feel valued, informed, and connected to the impact of their giving.

Annual Fund & Campaigns

Oversee planning and execution of the annual fund, including segmentation, messaging, and participation goals.

Lead or support capital and special campaigns as needed, from feasibility through completion.

Board & Volunteer Engagement

Partner with the Development Committee to strengthen fundraising effectiveness and accountability.

Recruit, train, and support parent and alumni volunteers in development efforts.

Operations & Communications

Ensure accurate gift processing, donor records, and reporting in collaboration with business and advancement systems.

Collaborate with marketing and admissions teams to align messaging and strengthen the school’s brand and case for support.

Prepare reports and presentations for senior leadership and the Board.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, résumé, and contact information for three professional references to Chris Chaffinch, Head of School, at [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Washington School is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds who share our commitment to educational excellence and community.

For full details, please review the attached documents.

Compensation & Benefits:

Washington School offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications & Experience:

Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.

Preferred 5+ years of progressive experience in fundraising or advancement, preferably in an independent school or nonprofit setting.

Demonstrated success in major gift solicitation and relationship-based fundraising.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Experience managing donor databases/CRMs.

Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

Experience working with boards and senior leaders.

Commitment to the mission and values of independent education.

Event fundraising and volunteer management experience.

Personal Attributes:


Strategic thinker with a collaborative, relationship-centered approach.

High level of integrity, discretion, and professionalism.

Self-motivated, organized, and results-oriented.

Comfortable engaging a wide range of constituents and representing the school publicly.

Physical Requirements:

This position is primarily sedentary, involving extended periods of sitting, working at a computer, and participating in meetings.

Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and via video conferencing.

Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and operating standard office equipment.

Occasional standing, walking, bending, and reaching.

Ability to lift and carry up to 15–25 pounds occasionally (e.g., materials, event supplies).

Ability to travel locally and occasionally overnight for donor meetings, events, conferences, and site visits.

May be required to work evenings or weekends for fundraising events and donor engagements.

Ability to navigate event venues, offices, and community locations.

Consideration will be given for remote work, but position will be required to be on campus at least one day per week.