Director of Development at Illinois Network of Charter Schools

ORGANIZATION: Illinois Network of Charter Schools
ROLE: Director of Development
LOCATION: Chicago, Illinois
TRAVEL EXPECTATIONS: Up to 15% within Illinois
SALARY: $125,000 - $145,000

ABOUT THE ILLINOIS NETWORK OF CHARTER SCHOOLS 

The Illinois Network of Charter Schools (INCS), established in 2003, is a statewide membership organization representing 143 charter schools and 65,000 students across Illinois. INCS is dedicated to expanding high-quality public education options and fostering high-performing schools that drive systemic reform and positively impact communities. As a 501(c)(3), INCS is the voice of charter schools, collaborating with policymakers, school leaders, parents, and communities to advocate for equitable resources, autonomy, and transparent policies that allow charter schools to thrive. Its sister entity, INCS Action, a 501(c)(4), mobilizes the charter school community in political advocacy, coalition building, and public official engagement.

INCS has achieved significant legislative milestones, including securing funding equity, preserving state-authorized charter schools, and extending charter renewal terms. Current priorities focus on improving facilities access, eliminating the state charter cap, and prioritizing the evidence-based funding formula to drive resources to districts serving low-income households and English learners. 

INCS champions diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), recognizing the systemic inequities historically faced by vulnerable communities in public education. The organization is committed to providing all families access to high-quality public schools that prepare students for success. INCS fosters cultural competence within its team and values diverse perspectives that reflect the backgrounds of the students and families served.

Through its advocacy, research, and services, INCS continues to create conditions for charter schools to excel, transforming education and empowering communities statewide.

To learn more about Illinois Network of Charter Schools (INCS), visit: https://www.incschools.org/

ABOUT THE DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT ROLE

The Director of Development is a key leadership position responsible for planning, organizing, and directing all aspects of the organization's fundraising efforts. This role focuses on cultivating and stewarding donor relationships, increasing revenue through diverse fundraising initiatives, and ensuring alignment between development strategies and the INCS’ mission and goals.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Fundraising Strategy & Leadership

• Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy that supports the INCS mission and long-term goals.
• Set and monitor fundraising goals, tracking progress and adjusting strategies, as needed, to meet financial targets.
• Lead the development and management of the development budget, ensuring effective use of resources.
• Lead annual giving, major gifts, and other relevant campaigns as needed. 

Donor Cultivation & Stewardship

• Build and maintain strong relationships with individual, corporate, and foundation donors.
• Develop and implement donor recognition programs to enhance engagement and retention.
• Oversee the cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of major gifts and planned giving prospects.
• Work with the President to manage a portfolio of high-net-worth individuals, foundations, and corporations, guiding them through the giving cycle.

Team Leadership & Management

• Build a culture of philanthropy within the organization.
• Collaborate with other departments, such as communications and the school support team, to ensure a cohesive and aligned development strategy.

Data Management & Reporting

• Oversee the tracking and analysis of donor data in Little Greenlight (LGL), to ensure accurate reporting and improve fundraising efforts.
• Develop regular reports for the board of directors and leadership team, providing updates on fundraising progress and strategy effectiveness.
• Implement industry practices for donor database management in LGL to enhance tracking and communication.

Grant Writing & Corporate Partnerships

• Oversee and support the writing and submission of grant proposals and reports to foundations, government agencies, and other funding sources.
• Cultivate and manage corporate sponsorships and partnerships that align with the organization's mission and funding needs.

Event Planning & Execution

• Plan and execute fundraising events, such as galas, auctions, and donor receptions.
• Manage event budgets and ensure maximum return on investment through strategic event planning and donor engagement.

External Communications & Public Relations

• Serve as a key representative of the organization in interactions with current and potential donors, media, and community stakeholders.
• Work with the communications team to craft compelling messaging and donor materials, such as case statements, annual reports, and fundraising appeals.
• Leverage digital fundraising strategies, including social media, crowdfunding, and email campaigns.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND CHARACTERISTICS 

First and foremost, candidates must believe that every child, regardless of socioeconomic factors or their academic starting point, has the potential to succeed in school, career, and life. In addition, candidates should be aware of how public education systems have historically and disproportionately disadvantaged vulnerable communities and must believe that charter public schools have the power to transform public education and students' lives.  

The successful candidate will also have the following skills and experience:

• Experience: 7+ years of progressive fundraising and development experience, including 3+ years in a leadership role. Proven success in major gifts, donor portfolio management, capital campaigns, planned giving, grant writing, and meeting fundraising goals.

• Relationship Management: Strong interpersonal skills to cultivate and maintain relationships across diverse audiences, including donors, board members, public officials, and community leaders. Demonstrated ability to build authentic networks and alliances aligned with organizational goals.
• Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including presenting ideas clearly and persuasively in various settings (1:1, small groups, and large events). Skilled facilitator with strong influencing and negotiating abilities.
• Strategic Leadership: Visionary thinker with strategic management skills in planning, directing, and reporting. Proven ability to lead multiple projects and responsibilities while fostering collaboration within a team and across organizations.
• Analytical and Problem-Solving: Exceptional analytical skills and a solution-oriented mindset, with optimism and perseverance highly valued.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in fundraising software, donor databases (e.g., LGL), and Microsoft Office Suite (especially PowerPoint and Excel).
• Advocacy: Ability to serve as a compelling external advocate for an educational organization.
• Team Leadership: Proven ability to inspire, attract, and develop relationships with external partners while fostering cooperative and collaborative work environments.

This is a full-time position, and INCS offers a hybrid work schedule (3 days in the office, two remote days). Occasional evening and weekend work is required for events and donor meetings.  Occasional travel may be required for donor cultivation and events.  

COMPENSATION 

Salary is commensurate with experience between $125,000 - $145,000. A full suite of benefits includes health insurance, an employer contribution to a 403(b) plan, generous time off, paid holidays.

INCS is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without unlawful discrimination based on race, color, creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender expression, military status, prior record of arrest or conviction, citizenship status, current employment status, or caregiver status.