Director of Advancement, 2025-2026

Title: Director of Advancement
Reports To: Founder/CEO
Compensation: $120,000 - $150,000 per year
FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt
Calendar: 12-Month
 

Our School 

Houston Classical Charter School (“Houston Classical”) was chartered by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to open in Houston in August 2020, beginning with kindergarten and first grade. The school has an accomplished and committed Board, which includes a founding Board and a Head of School. We are looking for experienced, dedicated, and motivated individuals who are excited by the challenge of being part of a new school. Houston Classical is founded on the idea that scholars can learn at a high level, notwithstanding their zip code or background.

The Mission of Houston Classical

Houston Classical’s mission is to ensure all scholars PreK-8 are successful through a classical approach, rigorous academics, character development, and structured environment to ensure success in high school, college and in life.

The Role

The Director of Advancement develops and implements strategies to advance the mission of Houston Classical. This includes identifying and cultivating donors, grant writing, and executing fundraising events and campaigns. Reporting directly to the CEO/Founder, the Director works across departments to develop and execute key fundraising initiatives.

Essential Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a multi-year fundraising plan encompassing annual campaigns, major gifts, foundation grants, corporate partnerships, and planned giving.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with donors, sponsors, volunteers, and Board members to ensure sustained support.
• Identify new individual, corporate, and foundation funding sources to support organizational growth and sustainability.
• Coordinate with all departments to align fundraising goals and maximize donor engagement.
• Ensure compliance with Federal and State laws governing charitable giving and fundraising activities.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of fundraising strategies and prepare regular Advancement reports for Board meetings.
• Maintain accurate donor records, manage gift processing and acknowledgments, and track budget progress.
• Design and implement stewardship and recognition programs to strengthen donor and stakeholder retention.
• Collaborate with the marketing team on digital and print advertising, social media, and email campaigns to promote development initiatives.
• Assist in creating and designing content for social media, email, and other marketing materials.
• Oversee the full grant lifecycle, from initial research and submission to final reporting.
• Supervise and mentor the fundraising team, providing the guidance and training necessary to meet performance goals.
• Serve as a primary ambassador for Houston Classical at community events and conferences to promote the school’s vision.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years in education development, advancement, or high-level sales.
• Deep belief in the mission of Houston Classical and the potential of all scholars.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and credibility with donors, sponsors, volunteers, and Board members.