Director of Advancement

2 days ago

Chicago, Illinois, United States Merraine Group, Inc. Full time

This position offers an outstanding opportunity for an experienced advancement professional to lead a comprehensive development and communications strategy within a mission-driven educational organization. The Director will bring strong fundraising expertise, strategic thinking, and a collaborative approach to building the resources and relationships that propel the organization forward. With responsibility for donor engagement, external visibility, and brand integrity, this role plays a central part in sustaining long-term organizational success.

Leadership & Strategy

  • Develop and execute a multi-year, data-informed advancement plan encompassing major gifts, annual giving, institutional funding, planned giving, and special events.
  • Partner with the CEO and Board of Directors to set annual fundraising goals and support board engagement in cultivation and solicitation efforts.
  • Participate in organizational planning and budgeting as a key member of the leadership team.
  • Provide regular updates to senior leadership and the board on fundraising performance, trends, and key metrics.
  • Promote a culture of philanthropy across staff, volunteers, and board members.

Brand Management & External Relations

  • Oversee communication and marketing initiatives to ensure alignment with mission, values, and brand standards.
  • Protect the organization's reputation through clear, consistent, and strategic external communications.
  • Act as a primary external representative, cultivating relationships with partners, donors, and community stakeholders alongside the CEO.

Fundraising & Donor Relations

  • Manage a portfolio of major gift prospects across individual, corporate, and foundation donors, including cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
  • Identify and develop new funding prospects to diversify and expand the donor base.
  • Lead and oversee grant strategy, including proposal development, submission, and reporting for private and public funders.
  • Implement a strong stewardship program to recognize donors and demonstrate impact.

Management & Operations

  • Lead and support advancement team members by establishing goals, offering coaching, and monitoring performance.
  • Ensure accurate and effective use of the donor database (CRM), including gift processing, reporting, and prospect research.
  • Develop and manage the advancement department budget.
  • Ensure compliance with all legal, ethical, and professional standards related to fundraising and donor engagement.

Qualifications & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree or CFRE certification preferred.
  • At least 7 years of progressive experience in nonprofit fundraising, including major gifts and strategic development work.
  • Demonstrated experience managing and developing a high-performing fundraising or communications team.
  • Strong writing and speaking skills, with experience in media relations, storytelling, and proposal development.
  • Successful experience working with executive leadership and volunteer boards.
  • Proficiency with CRM platforms such as Salesforce, Bloomerang, or Raiser's Edge.

Key Competencies & Attributes

  • Strategic planner with strong analytical skills.
  • Relationship-driven communicator skilled at donor engagement and stewardship.
  • Collaborative leader who motivates teams and builds trust.
  • Adaptable, self-directed, and able to manage multiple priorities.
  • Committed to ethical fundraising practices and organizational integrity.

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