Description

Do you want to grow your career in An American Classical Education, helping students to live responsible, courageous, and virtuous lives? Ascent Classical Academies is currently seeking school leaders who share a passion for our mission to grow the classical liberal arts education movement and to play a key role in significant expansion throughout the Carolinas, and beyond.

The director of community engagement serves as the lead marketer and fundraiser dedicated to the long-term growth and success of the school. He or she serves as the liaison between the parent community and school, creating a space for the community to engage with Ascent Classical Academy meaningfully. They are responsible for developing and implementing annual campaigns in collaboration with the Ascent Home Office, including fostering relationships with individual and corporate donors to meet ongoing fundraising benchmarks for participation, new gifts, and renewed gifts. 

The director of community engagement will also oversee campus communications and marketing efforts including weekly and monthly newsletters, social media channels, and website content. A successful candidate will have experience in marketing and communicating the purpose of classical education to diverse audiences.

Duties and Responsibilities 

• Write, edit, and publish content for school newsletters, social media channels, and the school website
• Create and maintain a photography archive in alignment with annual media rights usage
• Develop graphics in alignment with ACA brand standards
• Consistently attend various constituent group gatherings or meetings, including community chamber meetings, parent organizations, and others
• Implement and complete fundraising campaigns using strategies determined by the headmaster and ACA Home Office to meet pre-determined annual goals
• In partnership with the ACA Home Office, coordinate all major gift initiatives related to capital campaigns and planned giving
• Serves as key fundraising representative for the school including speaking about major school events about the importance of philanthropy for Ascent Classical Academy
• Schedules work time to align with school activity and other events before and after school where in-person engagement is required
• Builds trust and transparency through positive collaboration with all colleagues across the Ascent Classical Academies network to achieve our collective goals as one team
• Maintain regular, punctual attendance
• Maintain professional appearance and adhere to relevant health and safety procedures 

Requirements

The Director of Community Engagement position offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a unique organization that is changing K-12 education in this country while also providing personal and professional growth. The ideal candidate will be results-driven, have the capacity to manage multiple projects and thrive in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. 

Minimum Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree or higher
• Employment or volunteer experience in fundraising, sales, customer service, marketing, communications, or other related fields
• Commitment to the philosophy and mission of Ascent Classical Academies
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills, and the ability to effectively articulate information and issues
• Superior organization, communication, and computer skills (Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, ActiveCampaign or other CRMs, etc.)
• Proven ability to work in a fast-paced and deadline-oriented environment
• Ability to develop positive and professional relationships with team members at their academy and regional office and donor constituents
• Creative problem-solving skills
• Ability to provide excellent customer service and always maintain confidentiality and professionalism
• Strong and fearless public speaking and cold-calling skills
• Eligibility to work in the United States
• After an offer is accepted, a satisfactory background check as required by state law and the South Carolina Department of Education
• Dedication to the value of a rigorous liberal arts education
• Commitment to model moral character in line with the school’s core virtues and the pursuit of the True, Good, and Beautiful
• Adherence to all ACA policies, including but not limited to the Employee Handbook, Family Handbook, and all applicable school and board policies.

Desired Start Date: July 2024

Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt

Benefits Available:

• Competitive compensation package including performance pay and stipends available
• Employee-only coverage for group medical, dental, and vision plan; dependent coverage available for full-time employees
• Health savings account with employer contributions for full-time employees
• Short- and long-term disability and life insurance plans
• Retirement investment account with a 5% employer match
• Paid time off for employees and dependents including qualifying events under the Family Medical Leave Act
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Free employee benefits and healthcare guidance
• Robust teacher training and development