Chief Development Officer

In partnership with IndySchool Consultancy, Latin School of Chicago is conducting a nationwide search for a Chief Development Officer. The position will remain open until filled. Consideration will be given to candidates who apply through the link or contact Kevin Kunst at kevin@indyschoolconsultancy.com directly. Applicants should provide a resume, cover letter, and list of references.

To Apply: https://app.loxo.co/job/MzE0MTctOWY4MHk3MTgyb2NocDJwNw==?t=1765222180013

For More Information: https://doc.storydoc.com/LhMdE7

Latin seeks an experienced and ambitious CDO to provide strategic vision, leadership, and direction for all fundraising and engagement activities during a period of great momentum.

Reporting and Scope:

• Reports to the Head of School and serves on the senior administrative team.
• Oversees a staff of seven and a departmental budget of $300,000.
• Establishes priorities across major, endowed, and planned giving, annual fund, alumni and parent engagement, and advancement services.

Key Responsibilities:

• Cultivate lifelong relationships with alumni, parents, and friends.
• Enhance the School’s fundraising capacity for upcoming campaigns.
• Promote a culture of excellence, collaboration, and professional growth.
• Foster diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in all activities.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 10 years of progressively responsible fundraising and managerial experience.
• Proven track record in increasing philanthropic revenue.
• Strong cultural competency, communication skills, and operational efficiency.
• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.

Responsibilities and Expectations:

1. Fundraising Strategy and Donor Engagement

• Serve as architect of multi-year fundraising strategies.
• Plan and execute annual fund, endowment, capital, and comprehensive campaigns.
• Collaborate with Head of School, Board, and senior administration to identify priorities.
• Develop targeted donor portfolios and strategies for solicitation and stewardship.
• Personally manage a select portfolio of major gift prospects.
• Ensure timely acknowledgment and stewardship of gifts.

2. Team Leadership and Development

• Set direction and measurable goals for the development staff.
• Foster a collaborative, results-oriented environment.
• Mentor, train, and retain staff; emphasize professional growth.
• Oversee recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and performance evaluations.
• Celebrate achievements and promote diversity of thought.

3. Volunteer and Alumni Engagement

• Partner with Head of School, trustees, and volunteers to maximize fundraising and engagement.
• Lead and support Board committees, especially Nominations & Governance and Development.
• Cultivate alumni, parent, and constituent relationships to strengthen engagement and giving.
• Oversee alumni and parent relations programs, including celebrations and fundraising events.

4. Operations and Oversight

• Ensure all development systems and processes comply with budgetary, legal, and accountability standards.
• Collaborate with the Chief Financial and Operations Officer to manage budgets and resources.
• Integrate development activities across departments.
• Partner with communications to advance the School’s priorities.
• Promote a culture of philanthropy, maximizing efficiency and impact.

Professional Qualifications and Experiences:

• Appreciation for Latin’s history, achievements, and aspirations.
• Demonstrated ability to plan, manage, and close comprehensive campaigns.
• Experience building transformative development programs.
• Ability to navigate a nuanced academic community and foster collaboration.
• Track record of increasing staff effectiveness and building a goal-oriented environment.
• Strong credibility, judgment, and interpersonal skills.
• Superior written and oral communication skills.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and operationally efficient.

Latin School of Chicago is committed to bringing together a diverse faculty, staff, and student body. We encourage candidates who represent the broad, diverse community to which we aspire. 

Latin School of Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an inclusive school experience for all.

This is a full-time, year-round, and onsite position that includes 35 vacation days and 14 holidays (inclusive of breaks). The salary range for this position is $220,000 to $250,000, not including a generous and comprehensive insurance and benefits package.