Director of Development chez CHATTANOOGA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Description

Job Title: Director of Development

Reports to: Head of School

FLSA Status: Exempt Salaried (12 months)

Employment Status: Full-time, 40 hours per week

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About Chattanooga Christian School:

 

Chattanooga Christian School (CCS) is a Christian, interdenominational, co-educational, day school nestled on 55+ acres at the foot of Lookout Mountain. CCS has been serving Christian families in the Chattanooga area since 1970 and currently enrolls 1,550+ students in the Lower School (Preschool -5), Middle School (6-8), and High School (9-12). We believe the truth of scripture provides the framework through which all of reality can be understood. In concert with all other areas of school life, our academic program prepares students to grow as lovers of God who seek truth, serve others, and steward creation and culture. We are committed to providing an environment that meets each student at their unique point of need and equips them for pursuit of their full, God-given potential. We seek candidates who are committed to the development and discipleship of the whole child, both within and outside of the classroom. Our mission is to prepare students to lead and serve with distinction while representing Christ and seeking his Kingdom in all areas of home, church, society, and culture.

 

Why join the team at CCS?

 

At CCS, we are committed to providing a Christ-centered, nurturing environment where academic excellence and spiritual growth go hand in hand. We strive to foster a learning atmosphere where students are encouraged to develop a strong moral foundation, cultivate character, and deepen their faith in Christ. Our faculty and staff are not only enthusiastic about education but also about modeling Christlike behavior, building a strong community of faith, and inspiring students to live out their Christian Values. CCS is dedicated to partnering with families in raising the next generation of leaders who are equipped to serve Christ and make a positive impact in the world.

Compensation & Benefits:

At CCS, we are dedicated to offering a compensation and benefits package that supports the well-being of all our employees. For full-time, benefit-eligible employees, we provide a comprehensive suite of benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a 403(b) retirement plan with employer contributions. Full-time employees also receive paid time off for illness, and personal needs.

For part-time employees, while benefits may differ, we are committed to offering competitive compensation and providing access to certain benefits where eligible. Part-time employees may have access to some benefits such as paid time off and retirement plan options, depending on their role and hours worked. Our goal is to ensure all employees are supported and valued within their respective roles.

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Position Overview

 

The Director of Development provides vision, leadership, and strategic direction for all fundraising and donor engagement activities of CCS. Reporting directly to the Head of School and serving as a key member of the senior leadership team, the Director oversees a dynamic team—including the Development Operations Manager, the Legacy Giving Officer, and the Development Officer—to advance the school’s mission through philanthropy. This role is responsible for cultivating a culture of generosity, strengthening donor relationships, and securing financial support through annual giving, major gifts, planned giving, and capital campaigns.

 

 

Key Responsibilities

 

Strategic Leadership & Team Management

 

• Develop and execute a comprehensive development strategy to support CCS’s long-term financial sustainability, including annual fund growth, major gifts, planned giving, and capital campaigns.

• Provide direct supervision, mentorship, and professional development to the Development Operations Manager, Legacy Giving Officer, and Development Officer.

• Serve as a key advisor to the Head of School and senior leadership team on fundraising priorities and donor engagement strategies.

Major Gifts & Donor Engagement

• Cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with major donors, foundations, and key stakeholders to secure transformational gifts.

• Lead the strategy for capital campaigns and other major fundraising initiatives.

• Represent CCS in the community and at donor events, fostering relationships with current families, past families, grandparents, alumni, and friends of the school.

• Support the Development Officer in expanding the alumni network and annual fund efforts.

Development Operations

• Oversee the integrity and effective use of the donor database (Raiser’s Edge/NXT), ensuring accurate records and data-driven decision-making.

• Collaborate with the Development Operations Manager to ensure efficient gift processing, donor acknowledgment, and reporting systems.

• Maintain compliance with data privacy, donor confidentiality, and industry best practices.

Communications & Events

• Work closely with Marketing and Communications to align fundraising messages with the school’s mission and strategic goals.

• Provide leadership for signature fundraising events, alumni programs, and donor recognition initiatives.

• Serve as a visible ambassador for CCS, inspiring a spirit of generosity across the community.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

• Personal faith in Jesus Christ and a deep commitment to the mission and values of CCS

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in development, fundraising, or advancement, with demonstrated success in major gifts and campaign management.

• Proven leadership and team management experience, with the ability to inspire and develop staff.

• Exceptional interpersonal, relationship-building, and persuasive communication skills.

• Strong analytical abilities and experience leveraging data to inform strategy.

• Proficiency in donor database systems (Raiser’s Edge NXT preferred).

• High energy, self-motivated, and passionate about Christian education and community engagement.

   

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

1. Requires vision to read small print.

2. Requires the mobility to stand, stoop, reach and bend. Requires mobility of arms to reach and dexterity of hands to grasp and manipulate small objects.

3. Requires the ability to stand for extended periods.

4. Requires the ability to walk long distances.

5. Requires lifting, pushing, and/or pulling which does not exceed twenty-five pounds and is an infrequent aspect of the job.

6. Is subject to normal inside and outside environmental conditions.

7. Mental acuity to perform the essential functions of this position.

Employment Disclaimer:

Please note that employment at CCS is contingent on successfully passing a fingerprint-based background check. In addition, all employees are required in good faith to agree with each statement made in the CCS Statement of Faith.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Chattanooga Christian School is an equal opportunity employer and affords equal opportunity to all applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, gender, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

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