Assistant Director of Development

The Walker School•Marietta, GA

About The Position

As a key partner to the Assistant Head of School for Advancement, the Assistant Director of Development will play a central role in designing and executing a comprehensive development strategy. This position will help grow philanthropic support while strengthening engagement across parents, alumni, and friends of the school. This is a highly visible role for a professional who thrives at the intersection of strategy and relationship-building and who is passionate about independent school education and nonprofit impact.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and 5+ years of progressive development experience, preferably in an independent school or nonprofit setting
Proven success in securing major gifts and achieving fundraising goals
A strategic mindset with a strong, donor-centered approach
Exceptional relationship-building and communication skills that inspire action
Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities
Comfort with data, donor systems, and digital tools
A collaborative spirit and a deep appreciation for mission-driven work

Responsibilities

Advance Fundraising Strategy
Lead and support integrated annual giving strategies to increase participation and dollars raised
Manage and grow a portfolio of leadership annual fund and major gift prospects
Conduct personalized outreach and face-to-face donor engagement
Help expand leadership giving and donor retention
Drive Donor Engagement and Stewardship
Build authentic, lasting relationships with parents, alumni, grandparents, and friends
Design and execute meaningful stewardship strategies that demonstrate impact
Identify and cultivate new major gift prospects
Partner on moves management to advance donors through the giving pipeline
Lead Programs and Initiatives
Oversee implementation of the Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program
Educate donors on tax credit opportunities and manage scholarship coordination
Support volunteer engagement, including parent and leadership volunteers
Plan Events and Strengthen Community
Assist in the execution of donor events, cultivation gatherings, and recognition experiences
Represent the school at key advancement and community events
Support Operations and Data Strategy
Maintain accurate donor records and track engagement activity
Monitor fundraising progress and provide reporting insights
Partner with leadership and the Board on donor strategy, communications, and presentations