Director of Development

Director of Development Boston Higashi School - Randolph, Massachusetts. Open in Google Maps. Job Description At Boston Higashi School, we believe every student deserves the opportunity to thrive through meaningful education, connection, and community. Serving students with autism and related developmental differences, our school is internationally recognized for its Daily Life Therapy® approach, which emphasizes whole‑person growth through academics, physical activity, social development, and community engagement. We are seeking a passionate, strategic, and relationship‑focused Director of Development to help lead the next chapter of our organization’s growth and impact. This is an exciting leadership opportunity for someone who is energized by fundraising, community partnerships, storytelling, and program innovation. The Director of Development will play a key role in expanding opportunities for students, strengthening community visibility, and securing the resources needed to support the school’s long‑term mission. Position Overview The Director of Development is a senior leadership position responsible for advancing the school’s fundraising, grant development, donor relations, community engagement, and strategic growth initiatives. Working closely with executive leadership and program teams, this individual will cultivate meaningful partnerships, oversee fundraising initiatives, support program expansion efforts, and help increase awareness of the school’s mission and impact throughout the community. This role is ideal for a collaborative leader who combines strong communication and relationship‑building skills with strategic thinking, creativity, and organizational leadership. Key Responsibilities Fundraising & Development Lead and implement a comprehensive fundraising and development strategy Identify, research, write, and manage grants from foundations, corporations, and government agencies Cultivate and maintain relationships with donors, alumni families, community leaders, and philanthropic partners Collaborate on annual giving campaigns, sponsorship opportunities, fundraising events, and capital initiatives Identify new funding opportunities aligned with organizational and programmatic growth Track fundraising progress, donor engagement, and grant outcomes Community Partnerships & Outreach Represent the school within the community and build strategic partnerships Strengthen relationships with local businesses, organizations, advocacy groups, and community leaders Develop outreach materials and presentations that highlight the school’s mission and student success Coordinate school tours, guest visits, and community engagement opportunities Increase visibility and awareness of the school through strategic storytelling and relationship‑building Program Growth & Innovation Support the development of new educational, therapeutic, vocational, and enrichment initiatives Assist leadership in identifying resources and opportunities that enhance student programming Help advance innovative programs that respond to the evolving needs of students and families Support data‑informed decision making and program evaluation efforts Events & Engagement Lead planning and coordination of the school’s annual Gala and major fundraising events Develop meaningful events that foster family involvement and community connection Support school‑wide events through active participation and collaboration Leadership & Collaboration Work collaboratively across departments to support school initiatives and strategic goals Partner with leadership and HR to support staff development related to grants, outreach, and program initiatives Help foster a collaborative, mission‑driven, and student‑centered culture Qualifications Required Bachelor’s degree in Education, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, Communications, or related field Minimum of 5 years of experience in fundraising, development, grant writing, or nonprofit leadership Strong communication, presentation, and relationship‑building skills Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and work collaboratively across teams Passion for mission‑driven work and supporting individuals with autism and developmental disabilities Preferred Experience within education, special education, or nonprofit organizations Experience leading fundraising campaigns or managing donor portfolios Knowledge of program evaluation and data‑informed decision making What We’re Looking For We are looking for someone who is: Passionate about making a meaningful impact Collaborative, engaging, and relationship‑oriented Strategic and innovative in thinking Organized and detail‑oriented Comfortable leading initiatives while working as part of a team Excited to help grow a mission‑driven organization Why Join Boston Higashi School? Be part of a unique and internationally recognized educational model Help expand opportunities for students and families Work within a supportive, mission‑centered community Collaborate with passionate professionals dedicated to student success Make a lasting impact through meaningful community engagement and development work Position Type: Full-Time Job Requirements At least 5 years of relevant experience Citizenship, residency or work visa required #J-18808-Ljbffr