Our Purpose & Passion:

Since 1969, Philadelphia Academies Inc. (PAI) has been at the forefront of educational innovation, shaping impactful learning journeys for Philadelphia’s youth. Our unwavering commitment is to empower underserved communities with essential skills and opportunities, paving pathways to collegiate and professional success. As a catalyst for change, PAI collaborates with local schools and businesses to revolutionize student learning through career-focused programs. We champion diversity, targeting support to predominantly students of color in middle and high schools lacking resources. By enriching educational content, enhancing teacher and school leader capabilities, and rallying industry support, we strive to unlock the full potential of every student we reach.

The Opportunity: Director of Fund Development

The opportunity at PAI represents a pivotal chapter in our storied legacy as a sustainable force for educational reform in Philadelphia. Standing on the cusp of transformation, PAI welcomes a new visionary CEO and President alongside a revitalized Board of Directors, each heralding an era of renewed vigor and strategic focus. This role beckons a creative architect who will recruit financial investments to change the lives of the youth we serve, while also supporting the strategic marketing and brand recognition of the organization. As the touchstone of innovation and impact, you will play a key role in charting the course for our subsequent growth and community empowerment chapter. Your contributions will not just define PAI's trajectory, but will resonate throughout the educational landscape of Philadelphia, fostering enduring change for the Philadelphia’s young people.

The Role:

As the Director of Fund Development, you will spearhead our fundraising, storytelling, and communication initiatives. Embodying an entrepreneurial spirit and captivating personality, you will drive innovation and growth. Your primary goal will be to devise and execute a forward-thinking fund development strategy, ensuring sustainable and diversified revenue streams. The Director of Fund Development will report directly to PAI’s President & CEO and participate on PAI’s Leadership Team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Development: Craft and implement a comprehensive fund development plan that aligns with our organizational goals and leverages your entrepreneurial mindset to explore new funding avenues.
• Project Management: Lead and manage key fundraising projects ensuring they align with strategic objectives and are delivered on time and within budget. This includes but is not limited to the annual gala, grant applications/reporting, individual campaigns, and our annual EITC application and recruitment of new corporate donors via this tax-deduction program.
• Relationship Building: Cultivate and nurture relationships with corporate partners, donors, and stakeholders, employing your strategic thinking to enhance our network and support base. In addition, work closely with the Board of Directors, leading the Board’s Development Committee.
• Team Leadership: Work closely with other Directors and staff to understand funding needs of individual programs and marketing/communication strategies, as well as serving on the Leadership Team.
• Communication: Represent our organization at various events and platforms, articulating our vision and impact compellingly to diverse audiences.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree with a proven track record in fund development.
• At least 3-5 years of experience in a leadership role, demonstrating success in strategic planning and project management.
• Exceptional ability to think strategically, plan meticulously, and execute effectively.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with an aptitude for building relationships.
• Self-motivated, with an entrepreneurial mindset and a passion for our mission.
• Proven track record of achieving revenue target goals of over $1 million annually.
• Passion for racial equity and commitment to applying an equity lens to all you do.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Self-motivated, with a demonstrated ability to take the initiative, anticipate needs, and exercise independent, sound judgment.
• Strong time-management skills, including prioritizing tasks and functioning in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Broad knowledge of fundraising principles and ability to manage all aspects of the gift cycle.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite is required. Experience with REnext preferred.

Salary Range: begins at $80,000, commensurate with experience, with full benefits package including but not limited to Health, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off and 401K.

Join us in shaping the future of Philadelphia's youth by applying your entrepreneurial skills, strategic insight, and passion for social change.

Please submit a cover letter with salary requirements, a resume and three professional references to Cheryl Lafferty, Senior Program Director.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person