Director of Advancement
Loreto Normanhurst
Normanhurst, NSW
Posted on: 11 August 2025
Closing date: 21 August, 2025
Loreto Normanhurst is a leading Catholic, independent day and boarding school for girls in Years 5-12. Working at Loreto Normanhurst means being part of a caring, faith-filled community rich in history and innovation, where professionalism and commitment to excellence are valued in every role.
Loreto Normanhurst is seeking a dynamic and visionary Director of Advancement to lead and drive the School’s philanthropy and community engagement strategies. This newly created executive leadership position is a unique opportunity to shape the future of girls’ education in a values-driven, mission-led environment.
About the Role
Reporting directly to the Principal and sitting as a key member of the School’s Leadership Team, the Director of Advancement holds strategic responsibility for delivering the School’s philanthropic revenue and advancing key community engagement initiatives.
As the brand custodian of the Loreto Normanhurst Infinity Fund, the Director of Advancement will unite and propel all philanthropic efforts, ensuring alignment with the School’s mission and values. The successful candidate will spearhead programs that cultivate meaningful relationships with parents, alumni, donors, and the wider School community, whilst leading a high-performing team across philanthropy, events, community relations, and advancement operations.
This role is pivotal in delivering long-term, measurable outcomes that align with the School’s mission, vision, and strategic plan.
Key Responsibilities
• Develop and have oversight of the execution of the School’s Philanthropy and Community Engagement strategies.
• Lead the planning and delivery of key marketing and communications campaigns that support philanthropic and community engagement initiatives.
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement through data insights, stakeholder feedback, and strategic foresight.
• Grow and strengthen the Loreto Normanhurst Infinity Fund.
• Shape a dynamic, high-performing Advancement team with clear structure, accountability and shared goals.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with donors, alumni, parents, and community groups.
• Work collaboratively with the Director of Marketing and Enrolments to leverage an integrated approach to Advancement that fosters growth.
• Act as the School’s representative with the key stakeholder groups of the Ex-Students’ Association (ESA) and the Parent Association of Loreto (PAL), working collaboratively with them to ensure alignment of strategic priorities and positive relations.
• Develop and oversee an annual calendar of Advancement initiatives and events to guide executional planning across the team.
About You
• You have executive leadership experience spanning Advancement functions, across alumnae and stakeholder engagement and philanthropy.
• You are a strategic, values-driven leader with a deep understanding of philanthropy, marketing, communications, and stakeholder engagement in a mission-based environment.
• You bring credibility, professionalism, and energy to every interaction, and you’re passionate about advancing education through meaningful community partnerships.
• You possess strong stakeholder engagement skills with the ability to navigate complex school communities, Boards, donors and diverse networks.
• Respect for the faith based foundations, values and pastoral care that underpin the Loreto community.
Qualifications, Skills and Experience
• Tertiary qualifications in Marketing, Communications, Business, or a related field.
• Proven leadership experience in philanthropy, marketing, or advancement roles, preferably within a not-for-profit or education setting.
• Strong track record in strategic planning, campaign execution, and team leadership.
• Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• Financial acumen, with experience managing budgets and resources effectively.
To view the Role Description please email recruitment@loretonh.nsw.edu.au
Benefits we Offer
• Join a leading school in girls’ education with a commitment to excellence.
• Access professional growth and staff development programs to elevate your career.
• Be part of a workplace that values collaboration and staff recognition, celebrating achievements and fostering a strong team culture.
• Prioritise your wellbeing with our Staff Wellbeing Program, offering access to the Fitness Passport program, onsite Pilates sessions, and a range of initiatives designed to support your health and balance.
• Enjoy the convenience of onsite parking and relax with easy access to our Café
Applicants must submit a cover letter addressed to Ms Ugonotti, the Principal, a CV and copies of relevant qualifications or certifications. More information about this role and how to apply can be found on the School’s website: https://www.loretonh.nsw.edu.au/employment-and-careers/career-opportunities/
Closing Date – 10am Thursday 21 August 2025
All staff are expected to actively support the Catholic, and specifically Loreto, ethos of the school. Loreto Normanhurst supports the rights of children and young people and is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment directed at ensuring their safety and wellbeing. To create and maintain a child safe school, Loreto Normanhurst applies Child Safe Standards.
The successful applicant will be required to obtain and maintain a valid Working with Children Check from the Office of the Children’s Guardian.
