Director of Development

BACKGROUND

Carmen Schools of Science and Technology is a dynamic charter school network in Milwaukee dedicated to delivering high-quality education to our students. Since its inception in 2007, Carmen has shared facilities with MPS, and as part of our vision for growth and building independence, we have launched a $15 million capital campaign to help complete the development of a new $55 million high school building. We are looking for a results-oriented and driven individual to join our team as the Director of Development, where they will play a key role in overseeing the campaign and managing all aspects of development operations to ensure the successful completion of this vital project.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director of Development will be responsible for the execution and management of the capital campaign for the new high school building. Reporting directly to the CEO, this individual will oversee the development strategy, collaborate with internal stakeholders, and supervise a Development Manager to meet campaign goals. This is a full-time position that requires someone with the ability to hit the ground running as the campaign has already been launched.

Qualifications:

Experience: A minimum of 5 years of experience in development, fundraising, or related fields, with at least 2 years in a leadership or management role. Experience in Milwaukee’s philanthropic community is a plus.
Fundraising Expertise: Strong knowledge of capital campaigns, major gifts fundraising, donor stewardship, and event planning.
Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead and motivate a team, manage multiple priorities, and deliver results under tight deadlines.
Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage and inspire stakeholders, donors, and the broader community.
Organizational Skills: Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage complex, multi-faceted campaigns and prioritize tasks effectively.
Proficiency: Experience with donor management software (e.g., Salesforce, Raisers Edge, or similar) and Microsoft Office Suite. Carmen uses Donor Snap.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Campaign Management: Lead the execution and management of the capital campaign, ensuring the fundraising goals are met on schedule and within budget.
Development Operations: Oversee all aspects of the development operations, including donor cultivation, stewardship, event planning, and communications for the campaign.
Strategy Implementation: Work with the CEO and Campaign Committee to refine and implement capital campaign strategy, adjusting tactics as necessary to achieve success.
Team Supervision: Supervise and support the Development Manager, ensuring they are equipped to meet their goals and provide effective assistance to the campaign.
Donor Relations: Cultivate relationships with major donors, prospective donors, foundations, and corporations to increase contributions. Develop personalized engagement strategies to ensure continued support.
Campaign Materials: Collaborate with the marketing team to update campaign materials, including brochures, proposals, and digital content, ensuring consistent messaging.
Event Management: Lead and organize donor recognition events, tours, and other fundraising activities to promote the campaign and engage the community.
Reporting and Tracking: Track and report on campaign progress, including fundraising totals, engagement metrics, and other key performance indicators. Provide regular updates to the board, school leadership, and key stakeholders.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

Carmen Schools of Science and Technology provides salaries commensurate with qualifications and experience, plus excellent health and worksite benefits, free life insurance, free employee assistance program (EAP), free short-term disability insurance, 403b retirement plan, flexible spending accounts, and generous paid time off.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Carmen complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination. We are committed to equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, gender, disability, genetic information, marital status, age, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, lay-off, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training.

Carmen expressly prohibits any form of unlawful employee harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Any actions or behaviors that create an uncomfortable work environment and prohibit an employee to perform their expected duties will not be tolerated.