The Overlake School is a highly respected independent college preparatory day school serving students in grades 5–12 on a 75-acre campus in Redmond, Washington. Founded in 1967, Overlake is known for rigorous academics, small class sizes, and a deeply personalized approach to teaching and learning. With a student–teacher ratio of approximately 7:1, the School creates an environment where students are known, challenged, and supported as multifaceted individuals.
Overlake’s mission centers on championing students and their vast potential through engaging educational experiences in a diverse and inclusive community. Its academic program is complemented by robust arts, athletics, outdoor education, service learning, and experiential opportunities that prepare students for college and lives of purpose. Located near the innovation corridor of the Seattle area, Overlake benefits from both a tranquil natural setting and proximity to cultural, technological, and philanthropic resources that strengthen its community and outlook.
The Opportunity
The Overlake School seeks a strategic and relationship-centered Chief Development Officer to lead the continued evolution of its philanthropic program at a moment of opportunity. Following the successful completion of a $28 million campaign, the School is well positioned to build momentum, strengthen systems, and deepen engagement across its donor community. This is a senior leadership role for a development professional eager to shape the next chapter of growth for a mission-driven institution with strong alignment between culture and purpose.
As a member of the senior leadership team, the CDO will partner closely with the Head of School and Board of Trustees to design and execute advancement strategies that support institutional priorities and long-term financial sustainability. The role calls for a leader who brings clarity, structure, and forward-looking strategy to a growing development operation, with responsibility for major gifts, annual giving, campaigns, planned giving, stewardship, engagement, communications, and advancement services.
The CDO will lead and mentor the development team, strengthen data-informed decision-making, and personally manage a significant portfolio of major and leadership gift prospects. At the same time, this leader will serve as a visible ambassador for Overlake, cultivating high-value relationships and inspiring a culture of philanthropy across parents, alumni, trustees, and friends of the School. For a collaborative, strategic advancement leader, this role offers a path forward together with a school poised for continued impact.
The salary range for this position is $220,000–$250,000.
