Development Associate

Riverdale Country School is a Pre-K through grade 12 independent school in New York City committed to empowering lifelong learners by developing minds, building character, and creating community in order to change our world for the good. Riverdale seeks to reflect that belonging is the foundational core of community building in how we work collaboratively and support the school’s mission and empowers all community members to thrive in mind, character, and community. Riverdale enrolls about 1,300 students who collectively reside in 117 different zip codes. We seek to employ people who engage in all aspects of work with a student-centered approach, an open mind, passion, and a willingness to support the greater community. 

Reporting to the Executive Director of Development and the Chief Development Officer, this position also works collaboratively with the Directors of the Annual Fund and Alumnae Relations. This is an exciting time to be joining the Riverdale Development Team. Kari Ostrem is in her second year as Head of School, the annual fund has grown significantly, alumni engagement opportunities are increasing, and Riverdale is a leader in NYC independent schools. The Associate will have the opportunity to work on an array of projects, including major gift cultivation, prospect research, and special events. This is an excellent opportunity to launch a successful career in development while learning in a robust and growing shop. 

• Assist in coordination, implementation, and follow-up of special events related to major gift programs.
• Oversee events from start to finish - invitation lists, invite text, manage RSVPs, nametags, menus, floorplans, and all relevant logistics.
• Assist the Alumni Relations team with Reunion and other local and regional special event.
• Establish relationships and contract services from vendors, including printers, florists, caterers, and gift vendors.

• Assist the director with all activities related to the major gifts program.
• Help to maintain accurate records for donor stewardship, cultivation, and follow-up.
• Coordinate logistics and follow-up for all cultivation activities.
• Support Development Committees of the Board of Trustees, including statistics, lists, research reports, etc.

• Produce and maintain accurate research profiles on current and prospective donors, trustee candidates, award nominees, stewardship recipients, and other requests as required.
• Stay current on online resources for information

• Facilitate travel arrangements, reservations, vendor orders, and conference registrations for the team as needed
• Manage monthly credit card report
• Create and compile volunteer materials for meetings and events
• Other duties as assigned

• An associate degree is required, and a bachelor’s degree is preferred 1 - 3 years of work experience.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace; familiar with design programs (e.g., Canva, Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, or similar). Able to act as project lead, balance multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work and communicate effectively with alumni, parents, administration, faculty, and students.
• Creative, self-motivated, detail-oriented, and donor-centered.
• Demonstrates an understanding of and commitment to the mission of the school.
• Organized team player with a can-do attitude.
• Light physical work is required from time to time.
• Strong moral character and ability to handle confidential information.
• Ability and willingness to work outside standard business hours, including occasional weekends and evenings, as needed.