Development Director

Posted August 18, 2026 • Full-time • $50k to $60k salary

About the role

As Development Director for Chesterton Academy of St. George, you will develop a long-lasting career while building up the mission of the school. The position begins at an annual salary of $55,000, with the opportunity to increase compensation up to $75,000 within the first year based on performance and achievement of clearly defined development goals. As a member of the school staff, you will have the opportunity to attend daily Mass, go on the March for Life in Washington DC, and become part of a growing Catholic community in Jackson, MI where cost of living is 15% less than the national average.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage the annual fundraising plan, including established campaigns and events (Gala, Fall Campaign, End-of-Year Campaign, etc.), planned giving initiatives, and corporate and foundation proposals.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with donors and community leaders through direct outreach, including phone calls, in-person meetings, and formal group presentations.
• Work closely with the Executive Director to develop and execute a comprehensive marketing and communications strategy that strengthens awareness and engagement among key stakeholder groups, including influencers, donors, friends, current parents, prospective students and their families.
• Design, implement, and manage the school's major gifts program, including identifying prospects, cultivating relationships, and soliciting gifts.
• Oversee the processing and acknowledgment of all donations, ensure timely and accurate gift acknowledgments, and maintain donor records to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of the donor management software.
• Play a key role in the development and implementation of marketing and advertising efforts in support of fundraising and enrollment growth.

Requirements

• Minimum of three years of professional development experience, preferably in a non-profit environment.
• Bachelor's degree.
• Demonstrated experience using Salesforce or comparable donor management software.
• Outstanding computer and technical skills; excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with ability to work under pressure.

About the employer

Motto: Cultura Vitae (Culture of Life)

Mission: The mission of Chesterton Academy is to help parents raise up a new generation of joyful leaders and saints, educated in the classical tradition and the truths of the Catholic faith. Our rigorous, integrated curriculum unlocks students' potential and prepares them to succeed in college and professional life, and to excel in service of family, of country, and of Christ our Lord.

Founded in 2022 as a result of a grass-roots movement of parents, Chesterton Academy of St. George offers a rigorous, integrated high school curriculum centered on the Incarnation of Jesus Christ. Focusing on the classics, the school develops complete thinkers who learn to draw on faith and reason for the purpose of building a culture of life.

Who you are

You are a devout Catholic on fire for love of Jesus Christ who wants to help young people know Our Lord and His Church. You enjoy meeting new people, making connections, and rallying them around building up the kingdom of God. You are self-motivated, hardworking, joyful and organized.