Vice President of Development

Sterling Search•Santa Ana, CA

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

Sterling Search Inc. has been exclusively retained to recruit the Vice President of Development for Think Education. Think Education's mission is to partner with schools to change the odds for kids. Started in 1994, it has grown into a statewide organization supporting over 180,000 students annually. They partner with district and charter partners to extend the school day and provide students with nationally recognized expanded learning opportunities that prepare them for college and career. Think Education also operates early learning programs and school improvement through Orenda Education and staffing solutions through the California Schools Talent Collaborative (CSTC). Their vision is that all students can graduate high school with all life options available to them. The organization generates approximately $250 million in total annual revenue, with the majority from earned contracts with California school districts. They have a philanthropic portfolio of approximately $2.5 million annually, supported by individual donors, corporate partners, and foundation funders. As the organization expands its impact and pursues strategic priorities, leadership has identified philanthropy as a critical area for future investment and growth. Think Education distinguishes itself as an innovator and leader in the field, viewing its work as systems-change focused on transforming educational outcomes and creating lasting impact across the broader education ecosystem. Think Education's five initiatives and innovative approach present an extraordinary opportunity for philanthropic investment and transformational impact. For a fundraising leader energized by innovation, growth, and mission-driven impact, Think Education offers a rare opportunity at a pivotal moment to elevate its philanthropic program, forge transformational partnerships, and help drive meaningful, lasting change across the education system.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field, or proven work experience in lieu of a degree will be considered.
15+ years of progressive non-profit fundraising experience, with sustained success in securing gifts from individuals, foundations, or corporations; 10+ years focused on fundraising and external relations.
Excellent communication and the ability to build and maintain relationships with donors and other stakeholders.
Proficiency with all Microsoft Office software products (including Teams).
Strong Excel skills and comfortable working with data, budgets, and reports.
Highly proficient with PowerPoint design.

Nice To Haves

Experience leading capital campaigns, preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute multi-year strategic fund development plan that aligns and supports Think Education’s new strategy, with a focus on securing seed and operating funding for impact portfolio initiatives (e.g., superintendent leadership development, school improvement and digital product development).
Work closely with the CEO and other senior leaders to identify, cultivate and solicit high net worth individuals to support multi-million-dollar strategic fundraising campaign.
Partner with senior leaders in the organization to nurture and develop strong relationships with institutional donors (e.g., foundations and corporations) and education influencers, leading to increased funding and visibility for Think’s work throughout the state.
Drive growth of new donor pipelines, with emphasis on high-net-worth individuals and DAFs.
Serve as primary external representative, dedicating time to cultivating and stewarding relationships with major donors, philanthropic partners, and key stakeholders, including attending and participating in high-visibility community and industry events to advance strategic priorities.
Craft high impact messaging, with support of the marketing and communication team, directed at donor audience and fundraising objectives.
Lead the development of materials for capital campaign.
Lead and mentor team of fundraising professionals and support staff to achieve financial and strategic goals.
Oversee all internal processes relating to donor tracking and reporting.
Perform additional responsibilities as assigned.