Senior Director of Development (Full-time)

Description

Job Title: Senior Director of Development

Job Type: Exempt/Full-Time

Location: 65 W Jackson Blvd. Chicago, IL

Reports to: CEO

Position Overview:

The Senior Director of Development plays a critical leadership role in advancing the mission of the organization by developing and executing strategic fundraising initiatives. Reporting to the CEO and working closely with the Board of Directors, this position is responsible for overseeing all aspects of resource development, donor engagement, corporate partnerships, and special events. The Senior Director of Development will lead efforts to cultivate and steward major gifts from individuals, corporations, foundations, and government agencies while also supporting marketing and public relations initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Fundraising & Resource Development

• Develop and implement a comprehensive resource development strategy to meet and exceed fundraising goals.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major gifts from individuals, corporations, foundations, and government agencies.
• Manage a portfolio of high-level donors and oversee donor relations strategies to ensure sustained engagement and increased giving.
• Lead and oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of fundraising events and campaigns, ensuring financial goals are met.
• Develop corporate and business partnerships to generate sponsorships and new funding opportunities.
• Work with the CEO and senior leadership to develop annual budgets and revenue forecasts.
• Prepare reports, financial projections, and donor updates to track progress and evaluate fundraising effectiveness.
• Oversee and maintain an up-to-date donor database, ensuring accurate record-keeping, reporting, and stewardship.

2. Board & Leadership Engagement

• Support the Board of Directors and Resource Development Committee, providing leadership and guidance on fundraising strategies.
• Collaborate with Board members to identify, recruit, and engage potential donors and fundraising champions.
• Support training and tools to Board members to support their fundraising and donor cultivation efforts.
• Marketing, Public Relations & Communications
• Develop and implement marketing and public relations initiatives to increase visibility and community engagement.
• Oversee the creation of donor communications, including appeal letters, thank-you letters, newsletters, and impact reports.
• Work with senior leadership to craft compelling messaging for donors, sponsors, and external stakeholders.
• Strengthen the organization's brand by developing strategic partnerships and participating in community engagement activities.
• Team Leadership & Development
• Supervise and mentor the Resource Development Associate and other departmental team members, providing guidance and professional development opportunities.
• Manage Development Department contractor relationships, reviewing work product and ensuring assigned projects remain on track.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation within the development team.
• Work closely with senior management staff to align fundraising strategies with programmatic and organizational goals.

3. Relationships

• Internal: Maintain regular engagement with senior leadership, Club staff, Board of Directors, and volunteers to align development goals with organizational priorities.
• External: Cultivate and maintain relationships with donors, corporate and community partners, media contacts, and local organizations to enhance fundraising and visibility efforts.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; CFRE certification or Master’s degree in a relevant field is a plus.
• 7 years of fundraising experience, including major gift solicitations, corporate partnerships, donor relations, and event planning.
• Proven success in meeting or exceeding fundraising targets within a non-profit organization.
• Strong public relations and marketing expertise, with experience in donor communications and branding initiatives.
• Ability to manage and analyze donor data to drive fundraising strategy and decision-making.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage and inspire donors, board members, and community partners.
• Strong budgeting, project management, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work independently while also fostering a collaborative team environment.

Organizational Values

• Passion for the mission: Dedicated to advancing the organization’s impact.
• Strategic mindset: Ability to develop and execute data-driven fundraising plans.
• Commitment to excellence: Strives to exceed goals and continuously improve.
• Collaboration & teamwork: Builds strong relationships and fosters a positive work culture.
• Integrity & transparency: Ensures ethical and responsible fundraising practices.