Director of Advancement

About Cobb School MontessoriCobb School Montessori is an independent, nonprofit school serving children from toddler through sixth grade in the Farmington Valley. Rooted in authentic Montessori practice, Cobb empowers children to discover their individual and collective potential through independence, academic excellence, compassion, collaboration, and a love of learning.Our community is grounded in respect, curiosity, and a deep belief in the dignity and potential of every child. We are committed to fostering a culture of belonging and partnership with families, and to preparing children to engage thoughtfully and responsibly in an interconnected world.About This OpportunityWe are seeking a mission-aligned advancement professional to help build a strong and sustainable culture of philanthropy at Cobb. This role centers on authentic relationship-building, compelling storytelling, and thoughtful stewardship of the school’s community and resources.We welcome both experienced and emerging candidates at a range of experience levels. The title and scope of the role will be calibrated to the right person. What You’ll DoLead the Annual Fund end-to-end: strategy, messaging, solicitation, stewardship, and reportingBuild and sustain authentic relationships with donors, alumni, trustees, and the broader Cobb communityLead signature fundraising initiatives, including Giving Day and the annual AuctionServe as primary liaison to the Board’s Development Committee and external development consultantsCollaborate with the Parent Association to align community engagement with school prioritiesSupport early-phase endowment and campaign planning: materials, prospect pipelines, and feasibility workPartner with Communications and Admissions on cohesive, mission-driven storytelling and donor materialsOversee donor database management, gift processing, budget tracking, and Board reportingWho You AreMission-aligned — you believe in what Cobb does and want to be part of itA natural relationship-builder with warmth, integrity, and strong people skillsA clear, compelling communicator who can translate mission into stories that move peopleProactive and self-motivated — you see what needs doing and take ownershipComfortable with technology: CRMs, email platforms, data analysis, and digital design toolsA quick learner with a growth mindset and genuine team-player instincts Experience & QualificationsRequired Experience:Bachelor’s degreeExperience in relationship-based roles: development, community engagement, nonprofit programming, admissions, communications, events, or similarFamiliarity with CRM or database tools; comfort learning new platforms quicklyA strong desire to grow into a full advancement career with mentorship and supportPreferred Experience:Advanced degree or CFRE credential a plus3+ years of experience in advancement, development, or fundraising — ideally in an independent school or mission-driven nonprofitDemonstrated track record in cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donorsExperience with capital or endowment campaigns preferred We recognize that talent does not always follow a linear path. If you feel strongly aligned with our mission and believe you have what it takes to contribute meaningfully, we encourage you to apply and tell us your story.Why CobbA genuinely warm, collaborative school culture where people support each otherA leadership team that values input, flexibility, and professional growthMeaningful work — every conversation, event, and gift directly supports children and familiesThe opportunity to help shape and grow a development program at an exciting moment in the school’s historyTo ApplyPlease submit a cover letter and résumé to jlardner@cobbschool.com. In your cover letter, we especially welcome a description of why Cobb’s mission resonates with you personally.Cobb School Montessori is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive community.