Director of Advancement 2026-2027

Porter-Gaud School • Charleston, SC

4d

About The Position

Strengthen a growing program and advancing a historic institution's philanthropic vision in close partnership with School and Board leadership. Porter-Gaud School is seeking a Director of Advancement to lead the School's advancement program during an important period of growth and opportunity. The Director of Advancement will provide hands-on, strategic leadership for a growing advancement office, with responsibility for strengthening performance, clarifying priorities, and deepening a culture of relationship-based philanthropy. Reporting to the Head of School, this leader will work closely with the Board of Trustees, senior administrators, and volunteers to advance institutional fundraising goals and support Porter-Gaud's long-term vision.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
• Minimum six years of relevant experience, including at least four years of professional fundraising experience
• Demonstrated success in major gift cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship, including capital and endowment giving
• At least two years of management experience, with the ability to lead, supervise, and hold teams accountable
• Knowledge of independent school advancement best practices and comfort with advancement technology (Raiser's Edge and Google Workspace)

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and leadership for all advancement functions, including major and planned giving, annual giving, alumni and constituent engagement, and advancement services.
• Lead and develop a multi-person advancement team, setting clear goals, expectations, and accountability structures.
• Partner with the Head of School and Board of Trustees on institutional fundraising priorities, including campaign planning and execution.
• Manage a personal portfolio of major and planned gift prospects, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors capable of transformational support.
• Serve as a senior leader within the School, collaborating across departments to support enrollment, communications, and financial sustainability.

What This Job Offers

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