Jobs

JOB DESCRIPTION: Development Associate

Nature of the Position

The Development Associate delivers the discipline of sales, the organization of project management, and the

mission focus of nonprofit fundraising for Thornton Academy.

Accountability

The Development Associate reports to the Director of Development.

Performance Responsibilities

Responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

●Build and strengthen relationships with alumni, parents, and friends of the school

●Conduct outreach to schedule meetings, gather information, and re-engage constituents

●Prepare personalized communications, donor updates, and stewardship materials

●Research prospects and assist in identifying philanthropic capacity and interests

●Track interactions, deadlines, and next steps using fundraising software

●Support campaign initiatives, annual giving, and donor events

●Analyze reports and maintain data integrity

●Provide high-level customer service to all constituents

●Performing other duties as assigned to ensure the effectiveness of the Development Team, and support the mission of the school

Sales-Oriented Competencies

●Prospecting and relationship development

●Active listening and needs assessment

●Strategic follow-up management

●Confidence handling objections and navigating diverse viewpoints

●Goal orientation and accountability for results

Professional Qualifications

●Experience in fundraising/sales, development, or customer relationship management

●Outstanding communication and persuasive writing abilities

●Strong organizational and time management skills

●Comfortable working with technology, databases, and reporting tools

●Ability to work independently and maintain momentum toward goals

●High level of professionalism and confidentiality

●Passion for education and the transformative impact of philanthropy

Required Application Process

All those interested in applying must submit:

●School application form (“Non-Instructional” , available at www.thorntonacademy.org careers page)

●Resume

●Letter of interest

Please include “Applicant: Development Associate” in the Subject line and email documents to

lisa.estabrook@thorntonacademy.org.

If electronic submission is not possible, materials may be mailed or delivered to:

Lisa Estabrook

Thornton Academy

438 Main Street

Saco, ME 04072

Non-Discrimination Policy

The Thornton Academy Board of Trustees has adopted a non-discrimination policy. Thornton Academy

considers all applicants without regard to race, age, color, ancestry or national origin, religion, gender, gender

identification, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, marital, veteran, or any other legally protected

status.

2026