Glenelg Country School seeks a dynamic and relationship-driven Director of Stewardship and Alumni Engagement to lead a comprehensive stewardship program and strengthen connections with the school’s alumni community. This strategic role is responsible for designing and implementing stewardship efforts across all donor levels—with a primary focus on leadership donors ($1,000+)—and for building a vibrant, inclusive alumni program for graduates from the Class of 1989 onward.
As a key member of the Advancement Team, the Director will ensure that donors feel appreciated, informed, and connected to the school’s mission and impact. The Director will also play a central role in cultivating alumni engagement, pride, and participation through communications, events, and volunteer opportunities.
Essential Functions:
Stewardship Strategy (Donor Relations)
- Design and execute a comprehensive stewardship program for all donors, emphasizing personalized engagement for leadership donors ($1,000+).
- Strategically design donor stewardship-related events, including but no necessarily limited to Leadership Donor Dinner, Leadership Donor Upper School Musical Reception, support for Dragon Gala, and other events as needed.
- Ensure timely and meaningful acknowledgment, recognition, and reporting for all philanthropic gifts.
- Collaborate with Director of Institutional Advancement, Director of Development, and Head of School on individualized stewardship plans for top donors.
- Oversee the creation of impact reports, thank-you communications, donor recognition materials, and digital/print collateral.
- Partner with Advancement colleagues to ensure alignment between cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship efforts.
- Work with faculty and staff to leverage GCS’ competitive advantage against stewardship and ongoing advancement efforts.
Alumni Engagement
- Develop and execute a strategic alumni engagement plan focused on deepening relationships with graduates from the Class of 1989 onward.
- Plan and manage alumni events and programming, including reunions, regional gatherings, networking events, and volunteer opportunities.
- Establish and support Alumni Councils or volunteer groups to serve as ambassadors and connectors.
- Serve as the primary liaison to the alumni community, responding to inquiries and proactively building connections.
- Maintain updated alumni records in the school’s database and track engagement metrics.
Communications & Content
- Collaborate with the Director of Marketing and Communications on alumni and donor-facing content, including newsletters, spotlights, social media, and impact stories.
- Ensure a consistent, mission-aligned voice in stewardship and alumni communications.
- Engage alumni for content creation in various platforms – print, social media, website, etc.
Education and Experience Needs:
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- 3-5 years of relevant experience in advancement, alumni relations, or donor stewardship, preferably in an independent school, college/university, or nonprofit setting preferred. Applicants with a related background are also encouraged to apply.
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects with attention to detail and deadlines.
- Strong writing and storytelling ability, particularly in donor-facing and alumni content.
- Experience with fundraising databases (e.g., Raiser’s Edge or similar) and CRM systems preferred, not required.
- Commitment to the mission, values, and community of Glenelg Country School.
Skills and Abilities:
- An agile, strategic mindset with focus on how short-term programs can generate long-term results.
- High degree of relationship building skill and EQ is essential.
- Highly organized with an entrepreneurial spirit.
- Ability to effectively speak in public to different audiences.
- Commitment to learning and ongoing professional development.
Compensation and Benefits:
This position offers a competitive base salary starting at $75,000. GCS offers a robust benefits package including health insurances, retirement plan, and generous leave and holidays.
How to Apply:
Complete the application form and upload a cover letter and resume at https://glenelg.org/careers/director-of-stewardship-and-alumni-engagement/.