Director of Advancement
| Req Number: | GD1M45 |
| Location: | Bellevue Hill |
| Posted: | 1/21/2026 |
| Category: | Government/Not-For-Profit : Education |
| Job Type: | Permanent |
Director of Advancement
Cranbrook School
Help shape the next chapter of Cranbrook’s story. We’re seeking a strategic, relationship‑driven Advancement leader to build a culture of philanthropy and deliver transformative outcomes for scholarships, capital development and educational excellence.
The opportunity
Reporting to the Director, Marketing, Communications and Engagement, the Director of Advancement leads Cranbrook’s philanthropic strategy and fundraising activity in close partnership with the Head of School, School Council and the Cranbrook Foundation. You’ll set the vision, engage our community, and secure the support that powers the School’s strategic priorities.
What you’ll do
- Set strategy & deliver growth: Develop and execute a philanthropy plan aligned to the School’s Strategic Plan and Foundation objectives, with clear annual and long‑term income targets.
- Lead comprehensive fundraising: Design and run major gifts, annual giving and signature campaigns that support strategic projects and capital works.
- Build long‑term sustainability: Grow deferred giving and endowment programs.
- Engage a proud community: Cultivate, solicit and steward donors across all levels—personally managing a portfolio of major gift prospects (current parents, Old Cranbrookians and friends).
- Showcase impact: Oversee philanthropy communications, recognition and events, including alumni engagement.
- Win competitive funding: Guide grant research, proposals and reporting.
- Collaborate to amplify results: Work closely with the Head of School, Foundation Board and Marketing/Community teams to align development activity with school priorities.
- Lead with discipline: Provide regular performance reporting; manage the Advancement budget; and own the CRM/data integrity for accurate insights and forecasting.
- Build a high‑performing team: Lead, coach and inspire a professional, donor‑focused Advancement Office.
What you’ll bring
- A bachelor’s degree and 7+ years’ progressive experience in advancement/development, ideally in an education or independent school context.
- A strong track record in major gifts and end‑to‑end donor relationship management.
- Experience partnering with senior leaders and boards; confident influencing style and excellent judgement.
- Exceptional interpersonal, written and presentation skills.
- Experience with capital campaigns and/or endowment growth.
The practicalities
- This role is primarily onsite; there is limited WFH flexibility.
- Regular evening and weekend commitments for school and donor events.
- Occasional travel for donor meetings.
- Discretion and confidentiality are essential.
How to apply
Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest and relevant achievements. For a confidential discussion or the candidate brief, contact Courtenay Atwell at courtenay.atwell@kornferry.com
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Korn Ferry shall provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified candidates, and will refer candidates without regard to race, colour, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability or any other legally protected basis. Artificial Intelligence tools may be used in connection with the recruitment process for this position.
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