Overview and History:

In 1974, a small group of dedicated Jewish community members with an ambitious vision gathered to discuss the possible establishment of a Jewish day school in Ann Arbor. The group’s dream became reality when the Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor opened in the fall of 1975 with a class of 12 “gansters” (kindergartners). In 1995, HDS began a Hebrew immersion program, which has become a model for day schools nationwide.

Today, the mission of the Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor is to nurture the development of knowledgeable, caring and committed Jewish children in a dynamic learning environment. Through exceptional general and Judaic studies and Hebrew language immersion, students will create a meaningful and joyous connection to their heritage and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and involvement in the wider community.

HDSAA is seeking a Director of Development to oversee all aspects of the school’s fundraising operations and contribute to the growth of its annual campaign. A successful candidate will effectively analyze data to build operations infrastructure for HDSAA’s fundraising efforts and help inform decision-making alongside the school’s development staff and lay-leader solicitors. Reporting to the Head of School, this individual will serve as a Steward of HDSAA’s mission, directing the annual campaign and helping the school create and grow its endowment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Create, execute, and steward all fundraising activities, including annual giving, endowment, capital campaigns, and special projects
• Identify and develop strategies for solicitation and donor engagement through data analysis and effective operations planning
• Provide fundraising guidance and support to the Head of School, Board of Trustees, and Development Committee to meet fundraising goals and objectives
• Develop fundraising training for trustees and other advancement volunteers to achieve development objectives
• Prepare reports, materials and presentations for stakeholders as needed
• Establish and implement long and short-range organizational goals, objectives, policies, and operating procedures
• Oversee the management of the donor database and all records, files, and gift processing
• Externally represent Hebrew Day School of Ann Arbor to current and prospective support constituencies
• Plan and oversee the full fundraising calendar around HDSAA activities, to include annual campaign, planned giving, endowment and capital projects; oversee all solicitation and recognition

Qualifications & Skills:

• 5+ years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, Jewish communal experience preferred
• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Education, Public Policy, or related field preferred
• Demonstrated project management and problem-solving skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple active deadlines
• Strong analytical and database skills, ability to thrive in a collaborative environment
• High-level strategic thinking and planning; ability to meet goals and objectives in a timely manner
• Organized, ability to work independently, and confidentially
• Strong presence with the ability to inspire, influence, and build credibility with donors, leadership, and staff
• Outstanding communication skills: ability to make compelling presentations and prepare well-written materials
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM/Database; experience with Little Green Light preferred
• Passion for education, and connecting donors to education-related causes

Position Summary:

• Posted: December 2023
• Salary: $90K – $100K
• Location: Ann Arbor, MI