Chief Advancement Officer

Cristo Rey Network • Baltimore, MD

12d • $120,000 - $140,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Chief Advancement Officer (CAO) at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School plays a critical role in ensuring the financial sustainability and growth of the school through comprehensive fundraising strategies, donor relations, and external communications. The CAO is responsible for developing and executing the school’s advancement plan, which includes major gifts, annual giving, planned giving, corporate and foundation relations, special events, and alumni relations. This position is critical to advancing the mission of the school, which provides a quality, college-preparatory education to students from underserved communities through the innovative Cristo Rey work-study model.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required
• A minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in fundraising, with a proven track record of securing major gifts.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven ability to build relationships and influence key stakeholders.
• Knowledge of fundraising best practices, including major gifts, planned giving, and donor stewardship.
• Familiarity with the Cristo Rey model and a commitment to its mission.
• Strategic thinker with a results-oriented approach.
• High level of integrity and a passion for education and social justice.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree preferred
• Experience in educational or non-profit organizations is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a fundraising plan aligning with the school’s mission and goals.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major gift prospects, including individuals, corporations, and foundations.
• Oversee the annual giving program, ensuring consistent and effective donor engagement.
• Develop and manage a planned giving program to secure long-term financial support.
• Cultivate and manage relationships with corporate and foundation partners, aligning their philanthropic goals with the school’s needs.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with current and prospective donors, ensuring high engagement and satisfaction.
• In collaboration with the VP of Finance and Operations, monitor restricted gifts and prepare a schedule of net asset releases for the annual audit.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive stewardship program to acknowledge and recognize donors at all levels.
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting to donors on the impact of their gifts and the school’s progress.
• Lead the school’s marketing and communications efforts to enhance its visibility and reputation.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the school’s advancement efforts, representing the school to external audiences.
• Oversee the creation of compelling fundraising materials, including brochures, newsletters, and annual reports.
• Creates and manages an annual development plan.
• Lead and mentor the advancement team, fostering a collaborative and results-oriented environment.
• Develop and manage the advancement budget, ensuring efficient and effective use of resources.
• Work closely with the President, Board of Trustees, and other executive leaders to align advancement activities with the school’s strategic priorities.
• Support the President and Board of Trustees in cultivating and engaging board members in fundraising efforts.
• Lead and support board committees related to advancement, such as the Development Committee.

Benefits

• 100% tuition discount for employees enrolled in a graduate program pursuing an advanced degree through a partnership with Loyola University Maryland.
• $2,500 retention bonus every five years for teachers.
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching contributions.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Dental and vision plans.
• Generous vacation policy with 10 days per year.
• 5 personal days per year.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior