Director of Development and Community Engagement; part-time

Director of Development and Community Engagement (Part‑time)

Educational Service Center of Central Ohio invites applications for the Director of Development and Community Engagement (Part‑time) position.

The Director of Development and Community Engagement is a pivotal leadership role responsible for the strategic planning, implementation, and oversight of a comprehensive program designed to build lifelong relationships with alumni, foster a culture of philanthropy, and secure significant financial support for the Buckeye Valley Local School District’s priorities.

This position serves as a key ambassador for our school district, working closely with the Board of Education, Administration, Staff, and volunteer leadership to advance our school’s mission and strategic goals.

• Develop and execute a strategic plan for alumni relations and development programs that aligns with and advances district goals.
• Provide vision, leadership, and daily management to the development and alumni relations teams, including hiring, mentoring, and evaluating staff to ensure high performance and professional growth.
• Serve on the Buckeye Valley leadership team, providing input on strategy and management regarding philanthropic priorities and engagement initiatives.
• Manage departmental budgets, ensuring effective allocation of resources and fiscal responsibility.

• Serve as a chief fundraiser, managing a personal portfolio of 75‑100 major and principal gift prospects capable of making gifts of $100,000+.
• Develop and implement tailored cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies to secure financial commitments, including annual fund, major gifts, and planned gifts.
• Collaborate with development colleagues across the school district to identify and qualify alumni prospects, ensuring coordinated and strategic donor engagement.
• Track and report on fundraising progress and financial performance.

• Oversee the planning and execution of a diverse calendar of alumni programs and events (e.g., reunions, networking events, regional programs, homecoming) to foster a strong sense of community and loyalty.
• Recruit, train, and motivate a robust volunteer management system, including the Alumni Association Board of Directors and various committees.
• Develop and oversee a multi‑channel communication plan (print, email, social media, web) to keep alumni informed and engaged, in collaboration with marketing and communications teams.
• Collaborate with other community entities, such as township trustees and booster clubs, to create integrated student‑alumni initiatives and enhance career development opportunities.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree is required; a Master’s degree in a related field is preferred.

• A minimum of 7‑10 years of progressively responsible experience in alumni relations, fundraising, or school district advancement.
• Proven track record of successful major gift solicitations and experience closing gifts at the $100,000+ level.
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory experience, including managing professional staff and volunteers.
• Experience in campaign planning and execution is highly desirable.

• Exceptional interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, including public speaking and persuasive writing.
• Strong strategic thinking, analytical, and project‑management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Proficiency with CRM systems and data‑analysis tools (e.g., Raiser's Edge).
• Ability to work collaboratively in a matrixed organization and build consensus among diverse stakeholders.
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends as needed for events and meetings.