Development & Engagement Manager

Position Overview

The Development & Engagement Manager advances Drexel Academy’s mission by managing fundraising, grant development, donor stewardship, and community engagement efforts. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, this role is responsible for executing the annual development plan, leading grant writing and management, and strengthening relationships that support the long-term sustainability and visibility of the school.

This position is ideal for a mission-driven professional with strong grant writing experience, excellent organizational skills, and a passion for education, equity, and community impact.

Key ResponsibilitiesDevelopment & Fundraising

• Implement and manage the annual development plan aligned with Drexel Academy’s strategic goals.
• Research, cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with individual donors, foundations, corporations, and community partners.
• Support major gifts, annual giving campaigns, special appeals, and sponsorship opportunities.
• Maintain accurate donor records, reports, and giving history.

Grant Writing & Management (Primary Responsibility)

• Lead grant prospecting, writing, submission, and reporting in close coordination with the Executive Director.
• Develop and manage a grant calendar to ensure deadlines, compliance, and reporting requirements are met.
• Track grant outcomes, funding status, and deliverables.

Engagement & Relationship Management

• Strengthen relationships with families, alumni, community leaders, faith-based organizations, and partners.
• Coordinate donor recognition, appreciation efforts, and ongoing stewardship communications.
• Serve as a liaison between Drexel Academy and external stakeholders to increase awareness and engagement.
• Support board engagement in fundraising and ambassador roles, as requested by the Executive Director.

Communications & Storytelling

• Collaborate with leadership to share Drexel Academy’s impact through compelling, mission-aligned storytelling.
• Assist with development-related communications, including newsletters, donor updates, proposals, and social media content.
• Highlight student success, program outcomes, and community impact in alignment with the school’s mission and values.

Events & Community Outreach

• Plan and execute fundraising events, family engagement activities, and community-based initiatives.
• Support school-wide events that strengthen relationships and elevate the Drexel Academy brand.
• Build partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and civic groups.

Reporting & Accountability

• Provide ongoing and monthly updates to the Executive Director on fundraising progress, grant pipeline status, and engagement activities.
• Prepare concise written summaries and data reports to support leadership decision-making.
• Maintain organized documentation for all development and engagement activities.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
• 5–7 years of experience in nonprofit development, fundraising, and grant management.
• Demonstrated success in grant writing, donor cultivation, and stewardship.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and deadline-driven.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining consistent communication with executive leadership.
• Commitment to faith-based education, equity, and serving students in underserved communities.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $45,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• Health insurance

Work Location: In person