Development Director

We are hiring a Development Director to lead all fundraising, donor relations, and development initiatives that support Mālamalama Waldorf School
’s mission and long‑term financial sustainability.

Mālamalama Waldorf School is an independent preschool through grade 8 school located in Kea‘au on Hawai‘i Island. Founded in 1978, our school provides a rich Waldorf education rooted in creativity, hands‑on learning, and a deep respect for childhood. Our 20‑acre forested campus offers children daily opportunities for exploration, imagination, and meaningful academic engagement. As a fully accredited member of AWSNA, WASC, and HAIS, we serve families throughout East Hawai‘i who value a holistic, arts‑integrated education that nurtures the head, heart, and hands.

• Develop and implement a comprehensive multi‑year fundraising and development plan that supports the school’s strategic goals.
• Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with individual donors, corporate partners, community organizations, and philanthropic institutions.
• Lead all aspects of annual giving, major gifts, planned giving, grants, sponsor ships, and special fundraising initiatives.
• Collaborate with the School Director, Board of Directors, Parent Association, and grant writer to align development strategies with school priorities.
• Plan, manage, and execute all fundraising events, ensuring successful implementation and donor engagement.
• Maintain accurate donor records, track contributions, and oversee timely gift acknowledgment and communication.
• Build and maintain an alumni database and strengthen engagement with local and broader Waldorf alumni communities.
• Research and cultivate grant opportunities; support grant writing and reporting processes.
• Prepare regular development reports for school leadership and the Board of Directors; analyze progress and recommend adjustments to meet fundraising goals.
• Ensure compliance with all nonprofit fundraising regulations, reporting requirements, and ethical standards.
• Stay informed of trends and best practices in philanthropy, donor engagement, and nonprofit fundraising.
• Represent Mālamalama Waldorf School in the community and at events to promote awareness and support for the school’s mission.

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as nonprofit management, business administration, marketing, or another applicable discipline.
• 3–5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising with a demonstrated track record of securing donations, sponsor ships, and grants.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with donors, staff, volunteers, and community stakeholders.
• Excellent project management abilities, including the capacity to oversee multiple initiatives, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
• Highly organized and detail oriented, with the ability to accurately record and manage donor information.
• Proficiency with fundraising tools and platforms, including donor databases, online giving systems, and email marketing software.
• Knowledge of local and national philanthropic trends and the ability to design development strategies that align with these trends.
• Understanding of nonprofit fundraising regulations, compliance guidelines, and proper gift acknowledgment practices.
• Ability to collaborate with school leadership, board members, and parent groups to meet development goals.
• Passion for education and commitment to the mission and values of Mālamalama Waldorf School.

This is a full‑time position with a salary range of $55,000–$60,000
, depending on experience. Compensation and benefits are aligned with Mālamalama Waldorf School’s established salary policies.

A comprehensive benefits package is included for full‑time employees. Specific details will be shared with candidates during the interview process.

School Director and Board of Directors

Interested candidates should submit a resume
, cover letter
, references
, and the Mālamalama Waldorf School employment application. In the cover letter, please share your understanding of Waldorf education and how you envision contributing to the school’s financial sustainability and growth.

Mālamalama Waldorf School is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.