Development Director

The Development Director at A Giving Heart Foundation (AGHF) will lead and innovate the organization’s fundraising efforts, playing a critical role in securing essential resources to support AGHF’s mission as it scales nationally. This role demands a strategic and passionate individual dedicated to advancing the well-being of children with Congenital or Structural Heart Disease. The Director will collaborate closely with the CEO and Board of Directors, ensuring that all initiatives align with AGHF’s mission and goals.

In this role, the Development Director will play a key part in advancing the core programs and events that are cornerstones of the organization.

The Full-Time Development Director will have a multifaceted role, requiring a focus on several key areas to ensure the success and sustainability of A Giving Heart Foundation's mission. These focus areas include:

This position is Chicago-based, remote position. The person must be willing to travel regionally and occasionally be available on nights and weekends.

Design and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies to meet organizational goals, including identifying new revenue streams and enhancing donor engagement.

• Identify, cultivate, and solicit annual gifts, planned giving and major gifts from individuals, building strong relationships to ensure ongoing support for AGHF’s mission.
• Lead the end of year campaign to attract new donors to the mission while building brand awareness.

• Identify, cultivate and solicit sponsorship and donations from corporate partners for events, initiatives, or customized fundable projects.
• Prepare and present proposal, sponsorship packages, and other materials to secure revenue and volunteer engagement.
• Evaluate and position A Giving Heart Foundation events to be attractive and innovative ways for corporations to engage with the mission.
• Work closely with the CEO and Board of Directors to align fundraising efforts with AGHF’s strategic plan, providing insight and guidance on financial planning and growth opportunities.

• Oversee donor recognition and stewardship programs, ensuring that donors are appropriately acknowledged and engaged in the organization’s mission and activities.
• Deliver sponsorship recognition benefits working alongside event planning committee members and marketing agency.

• Plan and execute fundraising events and campaigns in collaboration with Volunteer Events Team, coordinating with various committees to ensure successful outcomes and maximize donor participation.

• Regularly monitor and report on the progress of fundraising efforts, providing updates and strategic recommendations to the CEO and Board.
• Stay informed about current trends, best practices, and emerging opportunities in the nonprofit sector, particularly in fundraising and grant writing, to continually refine and improve AGHF’s approach.
• Advance AGHF’s Leading with Heart program, which engages high school students in philanthropy and leadership development, while raising funds for the Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago’s Heart Center.
• Evaluate and position A Giving Heart Foundation events to be attractive for corporations to engage with the mission while positioning the programs for growth (or scaling the programs nationally).

To be considered for the Development Director position at A Giving Heart Foundation (AGHF), candidates should possess the following qualifications:

• Deep passion for AGHF’s mission to advance cardiac health for children.
• Proven experience in fundraising, with a track record of securing significant funding, 5-figures or more.
• Strong leadership and management abilities.
• Proven ability to work independently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including donors, corporate partners, and board members.
• Highly organized with experience working with a Board of Directors.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in philanthropic giving and development, with a demonstrated track record of success in increasing engagement and new revenue.