Fundraising Manager

Fundraising Manager

Sussex School | Missoula, Montana

Full-Time | Exempt

Salary: $75,000–$80,000 DOE Full Benefits

About Sussex School

Sussex School believes in the power of joyful, student-centered learning. Our progressive K–8 program creates an environment where learners, educators, and administrators alike are empowered to think deeply, create boldly, and engage authentically with their world.

Since 1971, Sussex has offered a learning experience that blends academic challenge with social-emotional growth, hands-on learning with outdoor exploration, and student voice with strong community values. Our mission is to help students become engaged citizens, courageous thinkers, and compassionate humans.

At Sussex, employees:

• Value student voice and choice while maintaining high academic expectations
• Embrace the flexibility and creativity inherent in progressive education
• Model lifelong learning through reflection and growth
• Build strong relationships with learners, families, and colleagues
• Bring curiosity, humor, and authenticity to their work

We believe building and sustaining a school is both an art and a craft—and that the strength of our community is at the heart of everything we do.

Position Overview

The Fundraising Manager plays a central role in advancing Sussex School’s mission by designing and implementing a comprehensive, relationship-based fundraising program.

This role focuses on expanding access to a Sussex education through creative and strategic philanthropy, while building meaningful, lasting relationships with donors, families, and community partners. The Fundraising Manager serves as an ambassador for the school—sharing our story, strengthening connections, and inspiring support.

This is a dynamic role that blends strategic planning with hands-on execution across annual giving, major gifts, events, and donor stewardship.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Fundraising & Major Gifts

• Develop and lead an Annual Fund strategy aligned with school priorities and best practices
• Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with major donors, families, alumni, and business sponsors
• Partner with school leadership and the Board to strengthen donor engagement and fundraising efforts
• Support and guide board members and volunteers in relationship-based fundraising
• Grow revenue through major gifts and sponsorships
• Pursue select grant opportunities relevant to independent schools

Donor Stewardship & Engagement

• Design and implement thoughtful stewardship strategies to strengthen donor retention
• Oversee donor recognition and engagement in collaboration with the Stewardship Committee
• Support communications related to donor appreciation, acknowledgments, and reporting
• Attend school events and maintain a visible, relationship-building presence on campus

Campaign & Event Oversight

Lead and support key fundraising initiatives, including:

• Fall Fling (auction, paddle call, sponsorships, donor follow-up)
• Grandparent Day (post-event engagement and donor cultivation)
• End-of-Year Giving Campaign
• Ecothon (strategic growth and fundraising potential)
• Missoula Gives (community engagement and participation growth)
• Track, analyze, and report on campaign performance and ROI

Data Management & Reporting

• Maintain accurate donor records and data systems
• Provide regular fundraising updates and insights to leadership and the Board
• Use data and analytics to inform strategy and improve outcomes

Collaboration & Leadership

Work closely with the Head of School, Marketing & Admissions Director, Advancement team, and Board

Partner with the Stewardship Committee to align engagement and fundraising strategies

Build strong relationships with donors, families, and community stakeholders

Contribute to a collaborative, mission-driven team culture

Qualifications

• Experience in fundraising, development, or nonprofit donor relations
• Strong relationship-building and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively
• Experience with event planning and campaign management
• Comfort working both independently and collaboratively
• Passion for education, community engagement, and equity

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field
• Experience in an educational or independent school setting
• Experience with major gifts and sponsorships
• Familiarity with CRM/database systems

We recognize that strong candidates may not meet every listed qualification. If you are excited about this role and believe you can contribute, we encourage you to apply.

Key Competencies

Communication & storytelling

Relationship management

Strategic thinking & data-informed decision making

Collaboration & leadership

Emotional intelligence and empathy

Organizational and project management skills

This is a full-time, year-round position with a mix of office-based work and community engagement. Evening and occasional weekend hours are required for events and donor engagement. The role includes both on-campus presence and flexibility based on fundraising needs.

Why Sussex?

This is an opportunity to do meaningful, mission-driven work in a school community that values creativity, connection, and purpose. The Fundraising Manager plays a key role in shaping the future of Sussex School—ensuring long-term sustainability while expanding access for students and families.

How to Apply

Please send a cover letter, résumé, and three references to: employ@sussexschool.org

Sussex School is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive community and do not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status.