Director, Development

The Chicago Council on Global Affairs is the Midwest's premier global affairs think tank and a leading independent, nonpartisan forum for debate on the forces shaping our world. Based in Chicago, the Council convenes policymakers, business and civic leaders, scholars, and the public for high-level public programs, policy dialogues, and expert round tables. Its research, analysis, and convenings address the defining issues of our time, from geopolitics and the global economy to technological change, global food security, and immigration, bringing the world's leading voices to Chicago and a vital Midwestern perspective to national and international debates.

The Director of Development supports the Chicago Council on Global Affairs by leading institutional fundraising, from prospecting to relationship management, prospect and proposal development, to long-term growth primarily from corporate and foundation partners. The Director is a front-line fundraiser and ambassador and will speak knowledgeably and persuasively about the mission of the organization and the variety of ways to engage.

• Achieve annual revenue goals, set with VP of Development, by establishing and managing a portfolio, with asks ranging from five- to seven- figures. Includes, but is not limited to: developing compelling proposals; preparing Board and/or executives for meetings; coordinating meeting and follow-up materials; etc.
• Conduct corporate and foundation prospecting for new partners, sponsor ships, and grants, and steward current relationships to drive renewals and long-term growth.
• Lead, coordinate, and support the overall Council team in developing foundation grant proposals.
• Navigate accounts through a defined Moves Management pipeline, from prospecting through stewardship. Actively use Salesforce to document and track opportunities and progress against annual revenue goal.
• Communicate results against budget/plan and in partnership with the VP of Development initiate corrective action as necessary to reach goal.
• Manage and enhance corporate membership program and manage corporate-specific private events in cooperation with the programming and events teams.
• Recruit corporate speakers and moderators and manage their engagement in events and corporate round tables. Work closely with select corporate leaders to develop and/or arrange customized programs.
• Collaborate across departments and cultivate strong working relationships with staff at all levels.
• Represent the Council at Development and relevant public events and in meetings with current or prospective donors.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree or higher is required
• 5-10 years' experience in fundraising or a combination of other related experience
• Measurable track record of innovation and successful engagement of donors and prospects for maximum impact
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; knowledge of CRM systems (Salesforce); knowledge of current and emerging social platforms
• Experience delivering high-quality service that anticipates and meets the needs of both internal and external stakeholders
• Leadership experience holding self and others accountable for measurable quality, timely, and cost-effective results
• Expert ability to present information and programs in written and verbal formats to a variety of target audiences including senior management
• Deep commitment to the highest standards of ethics and the independent, non-partisan mission of the Council
• Ability to work in-person events in Chicago, at the Council Conference Center or other offsite venues, requiring some evening and early morning hours

The Chicago Council operates on a hybrid working environment with staff expected to work from the Chicago office at least three times a week (mandatory Mondays and Thursdays). Please note that this role will require higher levels of in-person attendance and attendance at events and meetings outside of regular working hours.

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, handicap or disability, marital status, military service or veteran status, genetic information, or for any other reason prohibited by applicable law.

We are committed to weaving diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the fabric of the Council, and we believe people - their identities, experiences, beliefs, knowledge, and ideas - are critical to our success and to global affairs. We will elevate diverse voices and identities and a full range of perspectives, advance equitable and inclusive access to exploring and shaping ideas, and ensure our organization reflects the diversity of Chicago, our nation, and the world.

There are many benefits to working at the Council, including a flexible remote/in-office work environment (in-office 3 days per week), employer-subsidized medical/dental/vision…