Overview
Senior Director of Development Jobs in Chicago, IL at Union League Boys & Girls Clubs
Job Title: Senior Director of Development
Job Type: Exempt/Full-Time
Location: 65 W Jackson Blvd. Chicago, IL
Reports to: CEO
Salary: $125,000-$140,000
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
Fundraising & Resource Development
Develop and implement a comprehensive resource development strategy to meet and exceed fundraising goals
Source, develop and secure new donors
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.
Board & Leadership Engagement
In conjunction with the Resource Development Committee, seek support and partnership from the Board of Directors regarding 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
Build & Manage the Resource Development Department. Alongside, supervising and mentoring 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
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.
Qualifications & Skills
Bachelor’s degree required; CFRE certification or Master’sdegree 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.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint, with the ability to create and manage documents, spreadsheets, emails, and presentations efficiently.
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.
The Boys & Girls Club is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the hiring process.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $125,000.00 – $140,000.00 per year
Benefits:
401(k)
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance
Schedule:
8 hour shift
Monday to Friday
Weekends as needed
Application Question(s):
Are you comfortable working in person?
Education:
Bachelor’s (Required)
Experience:
Fundraising: 7 years (Preferred)
Location:
Chicago, IL 60604 (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
Chicago, IL 60604 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Title: Senior Director of Development
Company: Union League Boys & Girls Clubs
Location: Chicago, IL
