Manager, Planning & Engagement

Position: Manager, Advancement Planning & Engagement
Shirley Ryan Ability Lab is the global leader in physical medicine and rehabilitation for adults and children with the most severe, complex conditions. By joining our team, you’ll be part of our life-changing mission and vision. You’ll contribute to an innovative, multifaceted culture that is second to none — one that embraces collaboration, excellence, discovery and compassion. You’ll play a role in something that’s never been done before as we integrate science and clinical care to help patients achieve better, faster outcomes — as we Advance Human Ability, together.

Job Description Summary As the Manager, Advancement Planning & Engagement, you will provide essential operational, administrative and strategic support across a range of advancement functions. This role will directly support and enable the donor-facing team and initiatives of Shirley Ryan Ability Lab. This pivotal role is ideal for a resourceful, proactive individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about making an impact through relationship building, strategic coordination, and operational excellence.

This dynamic role will work directly with Advancement leadership and team members responsible for Principal and Major Gifts, as well as Corporate and Foundation Engagement.

The Manager will demonstrate support of the Vision, Mission and Core Values of Shirley Ryan Ability Lab by striving for excellence, contributing to the team efforts and showing respect and compassion for patients and their families, fellow employees and all others with whom there is contact at or in the interest of the institute.

The Manager will demonstrate Shirley Ryan Ability Lab Core Attributes:
Communication, Accountability, Flexibility/Adaptability, Judgment/Problem Solving, Customer Service and Core Values (Hope, Compassion, Discovery, Collaboration and Commitment to Excellence) while fulfilling job duties.

Job Description Principal Responsibilities Partner with the AVP/Associate Chief Advancement Officer (AVP/ACAO) to drive fundraising strategies and programs in alignment with the strategic priorities and financial objectives of Shirley Ryan Ability Lab.

Collaborate closely with the AVP/ACAO and direct reports to facilitate engagement plans for individual donors and corporate or foundation partners.

Work collaboratively with Advancement Operations, Donor Relations and Marketing and Communications in development of donor proposals and stewardship plans.

Track and manage data and information in a timely manner, utilizing the organization’s CRM tool (Raiser’s Edge) and other systems.

Engage in regular portfolio reviews with the AVP/ACAO, Advancement Officers and Prospect Management and Research.

Work within a metrics-based environment, tracking and supporting progress on Key Performance Indicators.

Prepare correspondence, stewardship notes, meeting summaries, and engagement strategies. Play an active role in supporting moves management, ensuring prospects are thoughtfully advanced through the engagement pipeline.

Monitor for relevant news, trends, and engagement opportunities both within and beyond Shirley Ryan Ability Lab.

Gather, synthesize, and prepare donor-related information for meetings, cultivation, and solicitation activities, ensuring leadership is equipped with timely, actionable insights.

Provide hands-on support for high-touch donor activities, including planning and executing events, visits, and special initiatives designed to deepen relationships.

Ensure thorough follow-up after donor and prospect meetings, capturing next steps and working with stakeholders to drive execution.

Maintain accurate, up-to-date records of donor/prospect activity. Generate regular reports to illustrate progress, highlight opportunities, and identify areas for improvement.

Anticipate and respond to the needs of the AVP/ACAO’s prospect portfolios, providing strategic support and ensuring priorities are addressed.

Oversee special projects requiring cross-departmental coordination and a keen attention to detail, supporting the Advancement division’s most critical initiatives.

Reporting Relationships Reports directly to AVP/Associate Chief Advancement…