Director of Development

Director of Development

Chicago Run – Full‑time, based in Chicago, IL. Reporting to the Executive Director. Salary $80,000–$90,000.

Start date:

when the Final date to receive applications.

About Chicago Run

Founded in 2007, Chicago Run empowers thousands of Chicago’s young people, from pre‑K through high school, with access to running and physical activity programs. Our programs meet young people where they are, partnering with schools and community organizations to provide regular opportunities for trauma‑informed, non‑competitive physical activity that improves academic performance, positive relationships, social‑emotional skills, and physical and mental health.

We reach thousands of youth participants each year through partnerships with Chicago Public Schools, community organizations, and parks, focusing on historically disinvested communities on the South and West sides. By partnering with stakeholders deeply rooted in these communities, we reach more young people and deepen our impact.

Programs

• Striders (pre‑K to 2nd grade): high‑quality physical activity breaks using games that develop vital gross motor skills.
• Chicago Runners (3rd–5th grade): physical activity breaks that promote well‑being and improve classroom concentration.
• Running Mates (middle & high school): running and physical activity to improve social and emotional well‑being in an inclusive, non‑competitive environment where students work toward completing a local 5K while building positive self‑image, setting goals, and developing relationships with peers and mentors.
• LACE Up! (Leadership, Action, Community, Endurance): a work‑based learning program that trains students to serve as leaders, mentors, and coaches for current Chicago Run participants.

Chicago Run seeks a strategic, dynamic, and accomplished development leader to accelerate philanthropic growth and institutional sustainability. As the funding landscape shifts, the Director of Development will lead the charge in diversifying revenue streams and expanding our donor base to support the thousands of students we serve across Chicago.

Reporting to the Executive Director, this senior leader will be the key architect of our fundraising operations. The role requires a builder mindset—someone who can thoughtfully design and rapidly execute strategies while providing high‑level oversight to a team of fractional and contractual professionals.

We are looking for an accomplished professional with a track record of transforming development programs, engaging donors through meaningful program‑led experiences, and positioning organizations for long‑term, scalable impact.

• Establish fundraising priorities and performance metrics in collaboration with leadership to achieve annual revenue targets of $1.5 M–$1.8 M.
• Design and execute multi‑year strategies for donor acquisition, retention, and stewardship across all levels, including major gifts, grants, and government funding.
• Lead the creation of comprehensive donor stewardship programs, including recognition activities and cultivation events, ensuring integration with program leadership for authentic engagement.

• Prepare and support the Executive Director for high‑stakes solicitations while collaborating with communications staff to translate program outcomes into compelling narratives for donors and foundations.
• Ensure all donor strategies, grant proposals, and cultivation plans are deeply rooted in Chicago Run’s mission and current program data.
• Regularly participate in school visits, community runs, and program events to maintain up‑to‑date knowledge and provide donors with front‑line insights.

• Act as the primary development liaison for the Executive Director and Board; hold leadership accountable for fundraising goals and 100 % board giving participation.
• Support board recruitment by identifying prospects with significant fundraising reach and influence.
• Educate and guide board members on fundraising best practices, donor engagement, and solicitation techniques.

• Cultivate…