Independent Schools of Saint Louis

Director of Development St. Joseph’s Academy

Overview:

St. Joseph’s Academy is a college preparatory school in Frontenac, Missouri sponsored by St. Joseph’s Educational Ministries. Founded in 1840, by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, the mission of the Academy is to provide quality Catholic education for young women in an environment that challenges them to grow in faith, knowledge, and respect for self and others. Our community expects these young women to make a profound impact in the world. St. Joseph’s Academy is committed to developing young women to be “Values-Driven Leaders” and upholds the school’s motto, “Not I, But We.” 

Position Summary:

The Director of Development at St. Joseph’s Academy is responsible for leading and managing a comprehensive development program that advances the mission of the Academy through annual giving, special events, and donor engagement. This role provides strategic oversight and direction for the annual fund and major fundraising events, while managing a portfolio of approximately 75 prospects with the capacity for mid-level and major giving.

This position reports to the VP of Advancement and collaborates to implement strategies that enhance donor participation, retention, and philanthropic investment. The position also oversees the prospect management system, ensuring accurate tracking, reporting, and analysis of donor activity.

Responsibilities:

  • Provide leadership and management for the development team, including Annual Giving, Parent Engagement and Special Events.
  • Develop, implement, and evaluate annual fundraising plans and goals aligned with institutional priorities.
  • Manage a personal portfolio of approximately 75 prospects, focusing on cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of donors capable of mid- to major-level gifts.
  • Oversee the planning, execution, and evaluation of all fundraising and community engagement events, ensuring alignment with mission and revenue goals.
  • Partner with the Director of Advancement to identify and cultivate new donor prospects and strengthen alumnae, parent, and community relationships.
  • Direct the use and maintenance of the donor relationship management system to ensure effective prospect tracking, moves management, and reporting.
  • Collaborate with marketing and communications staff to ensure consistent messaging and branding across all fundraising efforts.
  • Serve as an ambassador of St. Joseph’s Academy, representing the school at events and within the broader community.
  • Provide regular reports on development activity to the Advancement committee and support their engagement in fundraising.
  • Build an organization-wide culture of philanthropy by engaging key internal stakeholders and staff members in fundraising activities.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree required, fundraising certifications, a plus 
  • Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive experience in development, with demonstrated success in, annual giving, and major gifts.
  • Proven track record in donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Demonstrates a collaborative working style
  • Experience with Raiser’s Edge, Blackbaud/NXT, and DonorSearch, a plus.
  • Strategic thinker with excellent organizational skills, ability to manage multiple projects.
  • Commitment to the mission and values of St. Joseph’s Academy and the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet.

Interested candidates should email a cover letter and resume to employment@sja1840.org with “Director of Development” in the subject line.