SY 26/27 Director of Fundraising & Development

KIPP•Kansas City, MO

5h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of Fundraising and Development at KIPP Kansas City leads the design and execution of a comprehensive fundraising strategy to sustain and grow the region’s impact. This role is responsible for securing philanthropic support that advances KIPP KC’s mission to prepare students with the academic skills and character strengths needed to succeed in college, career, and life. The Director partners closely with the Executive Director, Regional Leadership Team, and Board to build a high-performing development function grounded in equity, community engagement, and results.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field required; CPA or master’s degree preferred
5–8 years of progressive experience in Fundraising, grant writing, business development, budgeting, or finance leadership
Experience in nonprofit, education, or multi-site organizational finance preferred
Strong understanding of accounting principles, payroll compliance, budget development, and internal controls
Demonstrated experience leading annual budgets and financial planning processes
Proficiency with accounting and payroll systems, financial reporting tools, and advanced Excel skills.
Strong leadership, organizational, communication, and analytical skills
Commitment to KIPP KC’s mission, students, families, and values
Relentless focus on results and a commitment to teamwork
Deep commitment to educational equity and underserved communities
Satisfactory outcome of a background check

Responsibilities

Develop and execute a multi-year fundraising strategy aligned to KIPP KC’s strategic plan and growth goals.
Set and manage annual revenue targets across major gifts, grants, corporate partnerships, and events.
Partner with regional leadership to align fundraising priorities with academic programming, facilities, and student support initiatives.
Build and manage a portfolio of individual donors, with a focus on cultivating and securing major gifts.
Design and implement a stewardship model that authentically engages donors in KIPP KC’s mission and impact.
Lead personalized donor communications, including impact reports, school visits, and engagement events.
Identify, pursue, and secure foundation and institutional funding aligned to KIPP KC priorities.
Oversee grant writing, submission, and reporting in collaboration with program and finance teams.
Build long-term relationships with local and national funders committed to educational equity.
Develop strategic partnerships with Kansas City-based corporations and community organizations.
Secure sponsorships and in-kind support for regional initiatives, student experiences, and events.
Position KIPP KC as a key partner in workforce development and college-to-career pathways.
Lead the planning and execution of high-impact fundraising events (e.g., annual gala, community campaigns, giving days).
Drive annual fund strategies that increase participation from families, staff, alumni, and community supporters.
Ensure events reflect KIPP KC’s brand, student voice, and community-centered values.
Partner with the KIPP KC Board to strengthen fundraising capacity and engagement.
Equip board members with tools and strategies to serve as effective ambassadors and fundraisers.
Represent KIPP KC externally to build awareness, credibility, and philanthropic investment in the region.
Build and maintain strong development systems, including donor database management and reporting tools.
Track and analyze fundraising performance, using data to refine strategy and improve outcomes.
Ensure compliance with all fundraising regulations and KIPP Foundation guidelines.
Build and manage a high-performing development team (staff and/or consultants).
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and mission alignment.
Partner cross-functionally with regional and school leaders to elevate storytelling and impact.