Director of Engagement and Development, Discovery Partners Institute

The University of Illinois Foundation (Foundation) is the official fundraising and private gift-receiving organization of the University of Illinois (University). It works closely with alumni and friends, faculty and staff, corporations and foundations, as well as campus development professionals to create fundraising programs and opportunities that benefit the University.

The University of Illinois System is at a critical juncture in its pursuit to make Chicago a hub for a once-in-a-generation inclusive research and innovation institute – Discovery Partners Institute. This role will be uniquely positioned to build the foundations of engagement, partnership, and collaboration that will set the stage for substantive fundraising now and in the years to come.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Implements a core suite of engagement, fundraising, and stewardship mechanisms aligned with industry best practices to position DPI for successful major and principal gift fundraising.

· Builds and manages dynamic suspect/prospect pools, impact-focused investment opportunities, and strategic cultivation plans for a dynamic list of top prospects.

· Positions DPI leadership to build collaborative relationships and alignment with the Chicago civic community and academic leadership across the universities.

· Develops a culture of team-based fundraising focused on value-add partnerships with internal collaborators across DPI and the university ecosystem.

· Captures and increases mindshare across Chicagoland through bespoke engagement opportunities and coordinated digital engagement alongside DPI Marketing and Communications.

· Responsible for researching, formulating, obtaining approval, introducing, and managing all systems, processes, practices, and policies in area of responsibility.

· Serve on the leadership team and participate in various committees, enterprise-wide projects, and external professional organizations.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

· Bachelor's degree with at least five years of relevant advancement or fundraising experience.

· Minimum of five years of successful major gift fundraising or related career experience.

· Results-oriented self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment with changing priorities and sometimes moving deadlines.

· Excellent communication (verbal and written), interpersonal, and customer service skills.

· Exhibits development program values of integrity, civility, collaboration, innovation, and impact.

· Willingness to travel as needed.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

· Experience in research universities or other large, complex organizations.

· Demonstrated knowledge of the Chicago business, civic, and philanthropic community.

Application Deadline: November 10, 2024

Application Process: For full consideration for the role, all candidates must complete an online application and include a cover letter and resume. Candidates may create a profile through https://jobs.uif.uillinois.edu. For further information regarding application procedures, contact Foundation Human Resources at uifhrsearches@uif.uillinois.edu.

THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS FOUNDATION IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER