Join Our Team

Director of Advancement

Position Summary:

The Director of Advancement is a full-time leadership position responsible for driving REF’s fundraising efforts, with a primary focus on grant writing and management. This role also oversees the annual appeal, corporate sponsorships, and additional fundraising initiatives. The Director of Advancement will report to and collaborate closely with the Executive Director to build sustainable revenue streams that support the mission of the organization.

Key Responsibilities:

Grant Writing & Management

• Research and identify grant opportunities from foundations, corporations, and government entities using online databases and tools.

• Draft high-quality letters of inquiry, grant proposals, and grant reports.

• Manage all online grant portals and ensure timely submission of applications and reports.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of grants, including deadlines, submissions, outcomes, and reporting requirements.

• Collaborate with the Executive Director to create and implement internal systems for timely grant management and reporting.

• Create and manage a detailed grants calendar to track all submission and reporting deadlines.

• Work with team members to ensure funders are appropriately credited in communications and public-facing materials.

Fundraising & Development

• Plan and execute the organization’s annual appeal, including messaging, donor segmentation, and outreach.

• Develop and grow corporate sponsorships, identifying prospective partners and creating compelling sponsorship opportunities.

• Support and implement other fundraising strategies to diversify and grow the organization’s donor base.

• Collaborate on donor stewardship and recognition efforts to strengthen funder relationships and retention.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with the Executive Director to align fundraising efforts with strategic priorities and programs.

• Participate in the Development Committee, Marketing Committee, and staff meetings.

• Assist in developing consistent, mission-aligned messaging for fundraising materials.

Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience in grant writing and grant management in a nonprofit or education-focused organization

• Bachelor’s degree or Associate’s with 2+ years of related experience

• Strong writing, research, and communication skills

• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines with attention to detail

• Familiarity with online grant submission portals and fundraising databases

• Experience managing annual appeals and/or corporate sponsorships is preferred

• Self-motivated, organized, and able to work independently as well as collaboratively

• Commitment to educational equity and the mission of the Rochester Education Foundation

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary: $50,000 – $60,000 annually, commensurate with experience

• Flexible schedule with hybrid work options

• Generous paid time off and holidays

• 3% 401 (k) match

• Opportunity to make a lasting impact on students and families in Rochester

To Apply:

Please submit a cover letter and resume to info@rochestereducation.org.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.