HEAD OF DEVELOPMENT AND STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

Location: Westcliff, Randburg, South Africa
Closing Date: 21 July 2025 at 12h00
Commencement: 1 January 2026


The Ridge School is looking for a strategic thinker—results-driven, adaptable, persistent, innovative, and passionate—to take on the role of Head of Development and Stakeholder Engagement. This role involves planning, executing, and evaluating all development efforts across admissions, fundraising, major events, alumni relations, communications, and public relations.


Key Responsibilities

Fundraising

  • Propose annual funding goals to the Headmaster

  • Keep abreast of best practices and legislation in fundraising

  • Grow the school’s endowment fund

  • Secure private funding in support of the school’s strategic goals

  • Cultivate and maintain donor relationships

  • Oversee Parents’ Association involvement in fundraising events

  • Promote and market the school to prospective students and families

Old Boy Relations

  • Foster lifelong relationships with Old Boys

  • Facilitate two-way communication and organize alumni events

General

  • Support the Headmaster effectively

  • Collaborate with the Head of Finance to track and manage all income

  • Review fundraising activities quarterly and report on outcomes

  • Produce monthly income/expenditure reports

  • Cultivate strong internal and external networks

  • Demonstrate professionalism, discretion, warmth, and diplomacy


Reporting Structure

  • Reports to: The Headmaster

  • Works closely with: Leadership team, Board, and other key stakeholders


Qualifications and Experience

Academic

  • A degree in Business Management, Public Relations, or Communications Management is advantageous

Required Skills and Experience

  • Proven success in fundraising and implementing strategic development plans

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

  • Empathy and emotional intelligence in donor relations

  • Results-driven, adaptable, persistent, detail-oriented, and ethical

  • Strong leadership and stakeholder engagement skills

  • Ability to manage and influence across non-direct reporting lines


Application Process

Please submit the following to careers@ridgeschool.co.za:

  • Updated CV with at least three contactable references

  • Cover letter outlining your suitability and interest in the role


Additional Information

  • Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

  • If you haven’t heard back within two weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

  • The Ridge School reserves the right not to make an appointment.

  • Appointment is subject to safeguarding and vetting procedures in line with the school’s Safeguarding Policy.

  • The Ridge School will handle personal data in accordance with POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act).

  • Employment Equity policies will be considered in the selection process.

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