Director of Leadership & Legacy Giving

Orange County • Newport Beach, CA

5h

About The Position

Pacifica seeks an entrepreneurial, dynamic leader to drive philanthropic initiatives, cultivate relationships with families, donors, and alumni, and implement strategic fundraising campaigns. Ideal candidates for the role are skilled, seasoned fundraising professionals, inspired by the opportunity to make a significant impact on future growth during a transformational time in the school’s history. The Director of Leadership & Legacy Giving must be a person of committed Christian faith and possess a passion for Pacifica’s unique approach to learning and formation, and be able to provide intellectual leadership and strategic direction to the Office of Institutional Advancement. The role will be filled by a relational and strategic leader who loves connecting people to purpose. This person will think creatively and plan intentionally—helping envision, organize, and advance initiatives that bring Pacifica’s mission to life. Reporting directly to the Head of School and working closely with key Board members and Advancement volunteers to cultivate a culture of generosity and shared ownership. Through collaboration, storytelling, and thoughtful strategy, this leader will collaborate with the Director of Advancement and Head of School to steward the school toward ambitious goals: $3M in annual giving and up to $40M in campaign projects over the next decade—all aimed at expanding Pacifica’s impact for generations to come. Click here to learn more about Pacifica’s new Strategic Vision that was announced earlier this school year. The Director of Leadership & Legacy Giving serves as a key member of the Advancement team, responsible for cultivating and stewarding relationships with current and prospective donors who have the capacity to make significant annual, capital, and planned gifts. This role blends relationship-building, strategic communication, and faith-driven hospitality—advancing Pacifica’s mission through meaningful partnerships that sustain the school’s long-term vision. Ideally this position will be full-time , but for the right candidate we will consider a part time position (approximately 20–25 hours per week) that offers flexibility in schedule, with some evening and weekend commitments for donor events and school gatherings required.

Requirements

• Demonstrated success in major gift fundraising, preferably in a nonprofit or independent school setting.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage a portfolio of major gift prospects.
• Familiarity with donor management software (Bloomerang preferred).
• Alignment with the mission and values of a Christ-centered educational environment.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a part-time capacity.

Responsibilities

• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major gift prospects in alignment with the school’s mission and strategic priorities.
• Develop and maintain strong, personal relationships with donors, alumni, and community partners.
• Work closely with the Head of School, advancement team, and board members to coordinate fundraising strategies.
• Prepare and deliver compelling proposals and presentations to secure major gifts.
• Track donor interactions and manage gift records accurately in the CRM system (Bloomerang).
• Collaborate on fundraising events and initiatives that engage prospective and current donors.
• Provide regular progress reports on fundraising activities and goal attainment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: No Education Listed