Chief Development Officer

Saint Ignatius College Prep - Chicago, IL

Job Title: Chief Development Officer

Department: Development

Reports To: President

FLSA Status: Exempt

Employment Status: 12-month, full-time

Position Summary

The Chief Development Officer (CDO) is a senior leader responsible for advancing the mission of the School through strategic leadership of development, alumni relations, marketing/communications, and public relations. As a key member of the President's leadership team, the CDO designs and implements comprehensive advancement strategies that strengthen philanthropic support, increase visibility, and enhance accessibility. This role oversees all fundraising efforts and ensures alignment with the School's values, mission, and long-term strategic goals.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage all advancement functions, including development, alumni relations, communications, and public relations
Develop and execute annual and long-range fundraising strategies, including major gifts, annual fund, planned giving, and corporate/foundation relations
Cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors, including alumni, parents, and community partners
Provide leadership and supervision to advancement staff, including performance management and strategic direction
Partner with the President and Board of Trustees to support fundraising initiatives and donor engagement
Oversee donor relations, recognition programs, and advancement communications
Strengthen community relations with local organizations, civic entities, and institutional partners
Collaborate with school leadership on strategic planning, visibility, and institutional growth
Other duties as assigned

Scope and Impact

This role has broad organizational impact, shaping the School's fundraising strategy, public presence, and long-term financial sustainability. The CDO exercises significant independent judgment, directly influences major gift revenue, and plays a key role in strategic decision-making. The position interacts extensively with senior leadership, trustees, donors, and the broader community.

Qualifications - Required

Demonstrated experience in institutional advancement, fundraising, and operations management
Proven leadership experience managing teams and complex initiatives
Strong background in strategic planning and implementation
Experience in donor cultivation, major gifts, and fundraising program oversight
Practicing Catholic in full communion with the Church with appreciation for Jesuit education

Qualifications - Preferred

Bachelor's degree in business, leadership, or related field
Experience in education or nonprofit sector advancement
Experience working with boards and high-level stakeholders

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and public speaking skills
Strong leadership presence with ability to build trust and relationships across diverse stakeholders
Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
Ability to manage multiple priorities and lead complex initiatives
High level of professionalism, discretion, and organizational awareness
Ability to engage effectively with donors, trustees, alumni, and community partners

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This position operates in a professional school and community environment with frequent interaction at on-campus and off-campus events. The role requires extended periods of sitting, communication, and travel to meetings and events. Evening and weekend work is regularly required.

Compensation and Schedule

This is a full-time, exempt position.
Salary Range: $190,000-$210,000
Compensation is salaried and commensurate with experience.
The expected work schedule typically ranges from 40–55 hours per week, including evenings and events as required.

Performance Expectations

Achievement of annual and long-term fundraising goals
Successful cultivation and stewardship of major donors
Effective leadership and development of advancement team
Increased visibility and engagement with alumni and community stakeholders
Alignment of advancement strategies with school mission and strategic plan
Strong collaboration with President, leadership team, and Board of Trustees