ACIS accredits, supports, and advances the interests of Colorado independent schools.

Director of Development

April 21, 2026

Are you a mission-driven development professional who seeks an amazing opportunity that comes with 300+ days of sunshine, front door access to Garden of the Gods, and convenient urban living in Colorado's second largest city? Then consider the possibilities if you were the next Director of Development for Fountain Valley School!

Founded in 1930, Fountain Valley School is an independent, college preparatory boarding and day school serving students in grades 8–12 on a spectacular 1,100-acre campus at the base of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado Springs.

Distinguished by its Western setting, close-knit residential community, and commitment to academic excellence, the School offers a transformative educational experience grounded in character, leadership, and engagement with the wider world. Drawing on its Western heritage, Fountain Valley School develops leaders who embrace the world with compassion and courage. Its core values—Courage, Compassion, Curiosity, Self-Reliance, and Open-Mindedness—shape every aspect of the student experience and community life.

Partnering with an inspirational and visionary Head of School, the Director of Development will provide strategic leadership for all aspects of philanthropy and constituent engagement at the School. This leader will guide and strengthen advancement efforts in support of Fountain Valley’s mission, values, and long-term priorities, while serving as an active frontline fundraiser and trusted partner to the Head and Board of Trustees.

The successful candidate will:

  • Have demonstrated success in fundraising
  • Bring significant capital campaign experience
  • Serve as a thoughtful strategist and energetic relationship-builder
  • Inspire philanthropic investment through compelling storytelling and authentic engagement
  • Partner effectively with trustees, alumni, families, faculty, staff, and volunteers

This is an exceptional opportunity for a skilled, relational, and mission-aligned advancement leader to join a school with a clear sense of purpose, a compelling story to tell, and a deeply engaged community. Reporting to the Head of School and serving as a key member of the senior leadership team, the Director of Development will play a central role in advancing Fountain Valley School’s philanthropic vision and strengthening a culture of generosity.

Salary: 150,000 - 190,000

Benefits: We believe in supporting the whole person — professionally and personally. Our benefits include:

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • School-paid Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, and Colorado Paid Leave premiums
  • School-paid life insurance equal to 2x annual salary
  • Voluntary life insurance options
  • Employee Assistance Program for confidential support services
  • Retirement plan with employer contribution
  • Full access to our beautiful campus amenities, including pool, gym, indoor track, workout bikes, scenic hiking and biking trails, and our Mountain Campus

Application Deadline: May 15, 2026

Position start date: July 1, 2026 or when filled.

Questions, expressions of interest, and confidential referrals may be sent to:

Nat Conard, Partner, Educators Collaborative

[email protected]

Chris Bright, Partner, Educators Collaborative

[email protected]