Director of Development and Marketing in Richmond, Virginia at Rise Academy

Rise Academy is a fully accredited, independent Christian high school located in Richmond’s East End. Our mission is to cultivate the God-given potential of students through learning opportunities that equip them to flourish. Through a commitment to academic excellence, spiritual formation, and holistic student development, Rise Academy partners with families and the community to transform lives.

Position Overview

The Director of Development and Marketing is a strategic leader responsible for advancing Rise Academy’s mission through comprehensive fundraising, donor engagement, and compelling storytelling. This role oversees all development and marketing initiatives, ensuring sustainable revenue growth and a strong, mission-centered brand presence in the community.

Essential Duties

Fund Development

• Lead a comprehensive fundraising program aligned with Rise Academy’s mission and faith-based values.
• Manage annual giving, major gifts, grants, sponsorships, and special events.
• Cultivate, solicit, and steward donors with an emphasis on relationship-based and mission-driven giving.
• Partner with the Head of School and Board of Trustees to engage faith-based partners and community leaders in fundraising efforts.
• Track and report fundraising progress to leadership and The Board of Trustees.

Marketing & Communications

• Oversee marketing and communications that clearly express Rise Academy’s mission, and impact.
• Ensure consistent messaging across digital, print, and social media platforms.
• Share compelling stories of student success, spiritual formation, and community impact.
• Leadership & Collaboration
• Supervise development and marketing staff, consultants, and vendors.
• Collaborate with academic and administrative teams to align fundraising and messaging with school priorities.
• Manage department budget and resources responsibly.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• 7–10 years of experience in fund development, marketing, and staff management
• Demonstrated success in donor engagement and raising $2million+ annually
• Experience with data analysis and use of a variety of CRM platforms
• Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
• Cultural competence and comfort advancing a faith-based educational environment.
• Experience partnering with boards, church leaders, or faith-based organizations required.