Senior Director, Development & Partnerships

Are you a strategic relationship builder and persuasive salesperson who thrives on advancing a mission? The Illinois CPA Society seeks a Senior Director, Development & Partnerships to lead our efforts in cultivating high-value partnerships, driving revenue growth, and supporting the CPA Endowment Fund of Illinois—which provides scholarships and resources to help students and professionals become CPAs.

As a key member of our leadership team, you will design and execute strategies that accelerate the growth of our Corporate Access Program (CAP), expand sponsorship and advertising opportunities, and oversee fundraising and governance for our charitable partner. Your work will directly impact our ability to support the CPA pipeline and strengthen the accounting profession in Illinois.

Corporate Access Program (CAP) Leadership

• Develop and implement data-driven sales, marketing, and outreach plans to grow CAP participation among corporate finance and accounting teams.
• Oversee program administration, including prospect tracking, contracts, renewals, and benefit delivery, ensuring high partner satisfaction and retention.
• Collaborate with marketing, membership, and education teams to promote CAP benefits and ensure consistent engagement.
• Corporate Access Program: https://www.icpas.org/connections/member-communities/ccfl/corporate-access-program

Corporate & Public Accounting Firm Engagement

• Lead outreach initiatives to strengthen relationships and increase visibility within accounting firms.
• Partner with the CEO to plan and execute quarterly G10 meetings with senior firm leaders.
• Manage a portfolio of firm relationships, track engagement, and prepare briefings for executive meetings.

Business Development & Sponsorship

• Direct the sales consultant (outside vendor) and collaborate with management to develop integrated sponsorship packages. Oversee sponsorship, advertising, and exhibit sales for key events, including the Summit, ensuring alignment with revenue goals.
• Monitor sales performance, contract fulfillment, and partner satisfaction, identifying opportunities for growth.

Fundraising & Endowment Leadership

• Lead fundraising strategy and execution for the CPA Endowment Fund of Illinois, advancing both restricted and unrestricted giving.
• Oversee and manage all fundraising campaigns, including annual giving, major gifts, corporate giving, planned giving, CPA Pipeline Partners program, and events.
• Collaborate on the annual Impact Report and oversee the creation of marketing and solicitation materials to inspire giving.
• Develop and monitor the annual Fund budget and investment reports. Ensure alignment between donor intent, funding allocation, and program outcomes.
• Oversee all Board and committee activities for the Endowment Fund, ensuring compliance with bylaws and mission alignment. Lead the annual Board nominating process.
• Supervise and develop the Development Specialist and partner with program staff to ensure successful implementation and reporting for programs supported by the Fund.
• CPA Endowment Fund of Illinois: https://www.icpas.org/advocacy/cpa-endowment-fund-of-illinois

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred; master’s degree and/or CAE designation, a plus.
• Extensive leadership experience in association management, business development, strategic partnerships, or fundraising.
• Proven ability to cultivate, manage, and grow relationships with corporate leaders, professional service firms, and strategic partners.
• Strong business acumen with a results-oriented mindset and a track record of achieving revenue goals.
• Experience leading or collaborating with sales or sponsorship teams, negotiating contracts, and managing executive-level relationships.
• Knowledge of nonprofit governance, fundraising, and fiduciary responsibilities preferred.
• Strategic, data-driven thinker with excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

Why Work for ICPAS?

We offer a flexible, supportive environment focused on professional growth:

• Hybrid schedule: work remotely 3 days/week
• Convenient downtown Chicago office near Union Station
• 35-hour work week with half-day Fridays in summer
• Casual dress code
• Comprehensive benefits: health, dental, vision, disability, life insurance
• 401(k) with up to 6% company contribution
• Flexible, unlimited vacation, 7 paid sick days, 15 paid holidays

Salary: $135,000 to $145,000 per year