At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising initiatives and build relationships with alumni and supporters.
- Company: The King's School Canterbury, a prestigious institution with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Be part of an ambitious growth phase with excellent career opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and help transform lives through education and philanthropy.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 € per year.
The Development Office at The King's School Canterbury plays a vital role in supporting the School's long-term vision and sustainability. Working at the intersection of fundraising, alumni relations, and community engagement, it is responsible for building meaningful relationships with past pupils (OKS), parents, and supporters, and is entering a pivotal and ambitious phase of growth. Guided by a bold five-year Philanthropy and Engagement Strategy, the Development Office places philanthropy and community engagement at the centre of its long-term vision to transform lives through education.
This is a moment of genuine momentum. Building on strong recent progress – including the revitalisation of major gifts activity, the successful launch of a regular giving programme, and the establishment of a unified King’s Association – the School has also recently completed Phase I of The Charter Awards, its ambitious fundraising campaign. Launched in 2023 to grow the School’s endowment to £50 million by the 500th anniversary of its 1541 Charter, the campaign has already exceeded expectations, raising over £3 million in just three years. Charter Awards bursaries are already transforming lives, enabling talented young people who would otherwise never have the opportunity to access a King’s education.
Responsibilities
- Lead the next phase of the development journey, scaling impact by strengthening the major gifts pipeline.
- Expand regular and legacy giving, delivering high-impact fundraising aligned with the School’s strategic priorities.
- Inspire philanthropic investment and deepen engagement across the global King’s community.
- Collaborate closely with senior leadership, governors and a network of supporters.
- Support the Development team which includes a Head of Development, a Development Officer, an Engagement Manager, and part-time Events and Admin Officers.
The successful candidate will work within a dedicated Development team, partnering with senior leaders and the wider school community to realise ambitious fundraising goals.
All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and, where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check.
Director of Development employer: The Independent Schools Council
The King's School Canterbury is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation in fundraising and community engagement thrives. With a strong commitment to employee growth and development, the school fosters a collaborative culture that empowers its staff to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and the wider community. Located in a historic setting, employees benefit from a supportive atmosphere that values philanthropy and encourages professional advancement within a prestigious educational institution.
Contact Detail:
The Independent Schools Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Development
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to alumni and current staff at The King's School Canterbury. A friendly chat can give you insights into the culture and values, plus it might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for philanthropy! When you get the chance to meet with decision-makers, share your vision for community engagement and how you can help elevate their fundraising efforts. Make it personal!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the school's recent achievements and future goals. Being well-informed will not only impress but also allow you to tailor your responses to align with their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Director of Development role. Highlight your experience in fundraising, alumni relations, and community engagement, as these are key areas for us at The King's School Canterbury.
Showcase Your Impact:When detailing your previous roles, focus on the impact you've made. Use specific examples of how you've strengthened major gifts or expanded giving programmes. We love seeing quantifiable results!
Connect with Our Vision:Demonstrate your understanding of our long-term vision and the importance of philanthropy in education. Share your passion for transforming lives through education, as this aligns perfectly with our mission at StudySmarter.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in our Development Office.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know Your Philanthropy
Make sure you understand the current trends in philanthropy and community engagement. Research The King's School Canterbury's recent fundraising successes and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their ambitious goals.
✨Showcase Relationship Building Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully built relationships with stakeholders in previous roles. Highlight your ability to inspire and engage a community, as this is crucial for the Director of Development position.
✨Align with Strategic Priorities
Familiarise yourself with the School’s strategic priorities and the five-year Philanthropy and Engagement Strategy. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to these goals and scale impact through innovative fundraising initiatives.
✨Collaborate and Communicate
Demonstrate your collaborative spirit by discussing past experiences where you worked closely with senior leadership or teams. Effective communication is key, so practice articulating your vision clearly and confidently.
