Associate Director of Community Philanthropy

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A well‑established independent school on the North Shore of Chicago is seeking an experienced Associate Director of Community Philanthropy to join its Advancement team. This is a pivotal, front‑line fundraising role for a mission‑driven professional who is confident building relationships, making meaningful asks, and stewarding philanthropic support across a highly engaged school community. The Associate Director will play a visible role in a newly restructured department and work closely with senior leadership and Advancement colleagues to strengthen the school’s fundraising pipeline.

THE ROLE:

• Lead all front‑line fundraising efforts, including major gifts, leadership giving, and planned giving.
• Manage and steward a portfolio of donors, building long‑term, trust‑based relationships.
• Confidently make significant asks and guide donors through the cultivation and solicitation process.
• Partner closely with colleagues overseeing communications and events/gala/auction efforts to support pipeline growth.
• Represent the school at donor meetings, community events, and development activities.
• Track donor activity, engagement, and progress using fundraising software.
• Participate in select evenings and weekends for fundraising events and the annual auction.
• Maintain discretion and professionalism in all donor interactions and communications.

YOU:

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Proven experience in front‑line fundraising (major gifts, leadership giving, or similar); this is not an entry‑level role.
• Comfortable and experienced making high‑level asks in donor‑facing environments.
• Background may include independent schools, nonprofits, higher education, or other advancement/development settings.
• Experience with Blackbaud/Raiser’s Edge, OneCause, or comparable fundraising platforms preferred (not required).
• Highly relational, organized, and collaborative.
• Mission‑driven and excited to make a meaningful impact within a school community.

DETAILS:

• Schedule: School hours (approximately 7:30/8:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
• On‑site: 5 days per week (no hybrid option)
• Some evenings and weekends required for development events

This organization offers a competitive benefits package, including generous tuition remission, a 403(b) retirement plan, free daily lunch, and standard benefits.

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