Director of Development and External Affairs

School Overview

Sophia Academy: Reflecting Wisdom in the Girl

Sophia Academy is an independent, tuition-free middle school for girls for grades 5 - 8, located in Providence, Rhode Island. We are dedicated to providing a transformative educational experience that empowers students from low-income families to become confident, compassionate, and successful leaders and citizens of the world.

The Mission

Sophia Academy engages girls from low income families on a joyful quest for self‐discovery and opportunity through a middle school education grounded in social justice.

A Unique Approach

At Sophia Academy, the school offers a holistic approach to education that nurtures the whole child. Our small class sizes and dedicated faculty ensure that every student receives individualized attention and support. We foster a culture of high expectations, encouraging students to challenge themselves and strive for excellence.

Beyond the Classroom

The school believes that learning extends beyond the classroom walls. Their students participate in a variety of enrichment programs, including field trips, community service projects, and leadership development workshops. These experiences help them develop essential life skills and build strong connections with their community.

A Supportive Community

Sophia Academy is more than just a school; it's a close-knit community where students feel a sense of belonging and support. The school fosters strong relationships between students, faculty, and families, creating a nurturing environment where every girl can thrive.

Transforming Lives Through Education

The school’s graduates go on to attend top high schools and colleges, and they become leaders in their communities. The school is very proud of the impact Sophia Academy has on the lives of their students, and they are committed to continuing the mission to empowering girls to lead.

The Position

First and foremost, the successful candidate will need to embrace the Sophia Academy’s core values and beliefs. The following are the key responsibilities:

Major Gift and Leadership Annual Fund

• Identify, engage, cultivate, and solicit a portfolio of donors and prospects with the capacity to give major and leadership annual fund gifts.

• Develop and implement strategies to maximize prospects’ giving through in-person meetings, electronic and print correspondence and events.

• Implement and evaluate a multi-channel annual fund solicitation strategy that includes a comprehensive direct marketing plan (print, email, social).

• Consistently document all donor communications and meet engagement goals.

Management and Oversight

• Oversee the daily workflow of the department.

• Develop and maintain policies and best practices related to gift acceptance, pledges, financial reporting, deferred giving, and donor intent.

• Provide constructive and timely performance communication.

• Ensure assignments are completed by deadlines and meet departmental standards.

• Provide experienced counsel and support to the Head of School and support the management of the board of trustees.

• Serve as liaison to the Board’s Development Committee and other committees as assigned.

• Manage an annual budget for cost-effective financial results.

• Ensure that donation data, pledges, and other financial information are accurately reflected in financial statements, funding proposals/reports, and other documents.

Corporate and Foundation Relations

• Research new funding opportunities, develop and submit proposals and reports, and steward relationships.

• Partner with an external consultant to increase support from corporations and foundations

Communications, Events, and Stewardship

• Plan and execute tailored communications and collateral for donors and prospects, including annual fund collateral, proposals, gift agreements, acknowledgment letters and email blasts.

• With assistance from department staff, manage fundraising events, including a major annual celebration event; perform follow-up to ensure seamless and accurate communication with event donors, and initiate strategic cultivation for future giving.

Top Priorities

Sustainable Fundraising Growth:

• Diversify Funding Sources: The new Director will need to expand beyond the traditional reliance on current, individual donors and the annual WOW Event, by exploring new avenues such as increasing the donor base, planned giving, corporate partnerships, and foundation support.

• Build a Robust Donor Pipeline: Cultivating relationships with current and potential donors, identifying and engaging new prospects, and creating a sustainable pipeline for future giving will be essential.

• Strengthen the Annual Fund: The Annual Fund provides critical unrestricted support. Enhancing participation rates, increasing average gift size, and implementing effective donor stewardship strategies will be key objectives.

Strategic Planning and Execution:

• Develop a Comprehensive Development Plan: The new Director should work closely with the Head of School and Board to create a multi-year development plan that aligns with the school's strategic vision and outlines clear goals, strategies, and metrics for success.

• Implement Data-Driven Strategies: Utilizing data analytics and donor insights to inform fundraising efforts, segment donor audiences, and tailor communication will be important for optimizing results.

Effective Leadership and Team Management:

• Build a High-Performing Team: The Director will need to recruit, train, and motivate a dedicated development team of volunteers, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.

• Cultivate Strong Relationships: Establishing and nurturing strong relationships with key stakeholders, including the Head of School, Board members, faculty, staff, parents, alumnae, and donors, will be critical for success.

• Champion the School’s Mission: The Director should be a passionate advocate for Sophia Academy's mission and articulate its impact effectively to inspire philanthropic support.

Communications and Marketing

• Elevate the School’s Brand: Enhance the school's brand and visibility, highlighting its unique value proposition, and showcasing its impact stories will be crucial for attracting donors and supporters.

Additional Considerations

• 25th Anniversary Campaign: Given the upcoming 25th anniversary in 2026-27, the new Director will play a significant role in planning and executing a major capital campaign or anniversary celebration.

• Alumnae Engagement: Strengthening alumnae engagement and cultivating their support as donors and volunteers will likely be an important focus area.

The Profile of the next Director of Development

The ideal candidate will possess the following competencies and should be able to respond to them in their cover letter —

The ideal candidate will have a background or experience in:

• Independent Schools and/or Non-Profits

In addition, the ideal candidate will possess the following competencies and should be able to respond to them in their cover letter:

Strategic Mindset

Philanthropic Acumen

Highly Relational

Cultural Competency

A Storyteller

Business Intelligence

Strong Code of Ethics

To Apply

Application Deadline: This position is open until filled.

Candidates should send a current resume, cover letter specific to this opportunity statement, and a list of five professional references to:

Tim Viands

President, IndySchool Consultancy

tim@indyschoolconsultancy.com

For more information, contact Tim Viands at tim@indyschoolconsultancy.com

Strong candidates will be given a battery of competency assessments.

Compensation & Benefits

The salary range for the next Director of Development will be between $100,000 - $125,000, depending on experience. The school offers a competitive benefits package.