Job Description

Position Overview

Hillel Community Day School, a warm and mission-driven Jewish day school in Rochester, NY, is looking for a results-oriented, self-starting Director of Institutional Advancement to lead fundraising, admissions, and marketing efforts. This is a key leadership position for someone who can think strategically, execute efficiently, and build meaningful relationships across generations.

We’re seeking a highly motivated and organized professional who knows how to drive results, tell compelling stories, and build community. Strong knowledge of fundraising platforms is helpful. Development experience is highly preferred.

**This is a 12-month full-time position with a salary range of $72,000–$77,000 per year.**

Key Responsibilities

1. Fundraising & Development

·       Design and lead all aspects of fundraising: annual campaigns, capital campaigns, legacy giving, and special projects.

·       Cultivate relationships with donors, alumni, foundations, and partners—turning interest into long-term investment.

·       Identify and secure grants; write and manage proposals, budgets, and impact reports.

·       Oversee donor engagement and stewardship, from timely thank-yous to recognition strategies.

·       Manage donor databases and fundraising platforms such as DonorSnap.

2. Admissions & Enrollment

·       Drive Pre-K–8 admissions strategy, working collaboratively with school leadership and staff.

·       Manage the entire admissions process—from inquiry to enrollment—with warmth, responsiveness, and clarity.

·       Analyze enrollment trends, track key metrics, and adjust outreach efforts accordingly.

·       Support family retention through engagement and consistent communication.

3. Community Engagement

·       Build and maintain relationships with alumni, families, community leaders, synagogues, and Jewish organizations.

·       Lead alumni outreach and engagement efforts.

·       Inspire a culture of giving and involvement across the school community.

4. Marketing & Communications

·       Own the school’s messaging and brand voice across all platforms.

·       Create and manage content for newsletters, emails, press releases, social media, and the website.

·       Produce compelling visuals and materials using tools like Canva, Mailchimp, and social media scheduling platforms.

·       Ensure consistent and mission-aligned communication, both internally and externally.

5. Event Planning & Coordination

·       Plan and execute high-impact events such as benefits, donor gatherings, open houses, and school showcases.

·       Collaborate with staff and volunteers to elevate school visibility and engagement through events.

6. Strategic Leadership

·       Partner with the Head of School and Board to set and meet advancement goals.

·       Report regularly on fundraising progress, admissions numbers, and marketing performance.

·       Contribute to the school’s long-term sustainability and vision.

What We’re Looking For

·       Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s in nonprofit management, marketing, or related field preferred.

·       2 years of experience in fundraising, admissions, marketing, or institutional advancement.

·       Track record of success in fundraising campaigns and major donor cultivation.

·       Familiarity with Jewish education or the Jewish nonprofit sector strongly preferred.

·       Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

·       Comfort with digital tools: fundraising databases, CRM systems, email marketing platforms, and design tools.

·       Detail-oriented, proactive, and deadline-driven—with the ability to lead projects from start to finish.

·       Strong relationship-builder with high emotional intelligence and a team mindset.

·       Knowledge of fundraising platforms such as DonorSnap especially useful.

·       Knowledge of QuickBooks preferred

Experience Required

1-2 years