Advancement Director in Santa Monica, California at Growing Place

Location: Santa Monica, CA | Reports to: Executive Director | Status: Full-Time, Exempt

The Director of Advancement leads fundraising, donor relations, grants, communications, and events to support the mission and sustainability of Growing Place in partnership with the Program Coordinator and administrative team. This role is intended to provide additional leadership and mentorship as the school strengthens its advancement systems and strategies, building internal capacity and confidence across the existing team. The focus is on collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and long-term sustainability, with the goal of supporting and elevating the work already underway.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute an annual fundraising plan including individual giving, major gifts, grants, and events.

• Manage a portfolio of donors and support leadership in donor engagement.

• Build relationships with families, alumni, and community donors.

• Ensure accurate CRM records and meaningful donor stewardship.

• Research and apply for foundation and public funding.

• Prepare grant proposals and reports.

• Create fundraising materials and impact communications.

• Maintain consistent messaging across platforms.

• Lead planning and execution of fundraising and donor events.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.

5–7 years of nonprofit fundraising experience, with demonstrated success in major gift cultivation, solicitation and closing gifts of $10,000+.

Proven ability to build and manage a donor portfolio, including moves management strategies for major gift prospects.

Strong communication and relationship-building skills.

Project management and multitasking ability.

Experience with donor CRMs and fundraising best practices.