Job Description

Chief Development Officer – Chicago Education Nonprofit

In partnership with Stern Recruiting

A leading education-focused nonprofit in Chicago is partnering with Stern Recruiting to identify a strategic and dynamic Chief Development Officer (CDO) to join its executive team. Reporting to the CEO, the CDO will lead the organization’s development and partnership strategy, serve as a key external ambassador, and drive significant fundraising efforts to fuel its growth and expansion .

Position Overview

As a critical thought partner during a period of ambitious growth, the CDO will oversee the planning, execution, and evaluation of all fundraising initiatives. The ideal candidate is a strategic leader with strong operational skills, proven fundraising success, and a passion for impact in public education. They will lead a high-performing team, build strategic partnerships, and ensure the infrastructure is in place to support long-term growth.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Development & Planning

• Set the vision and direction for the development function with actionable workstreams and measurable goals.
• Build and execute a comprehensive revenue strategy across philanthropic and public funding streams.
• Define and manage marketing and communications strategy to support fundraising goals.
• Collaborate with the executive team to align development with broader organizational strategy.
• Establish and monitor ambitious annual fundraising targets.

Fundraising & Financial Sustainability

• Raise funds from foundations, individuals, corporations, and public sources to meet or exceed annual budget goals.
• Lead multi-year development planning for sustainable revenue growth.
• Ensure strong stewardship of major donors and institutional funders.
• Regularly report on fundraising progress to internal leadership.

Board Engagement & External Relations

• Partner with development leadership to drive board engagement in fundraising.
• Represent the organization at key donor meetings, events, and in the philanthropic community.

Team Leadership & Development

• Foster a collaborative, results-oriented team culture.
• Coach and support team members’ professional growth.
• Lead by example with strong execution and high expectations.

Candidate Profile

• Deep passion for educational equity and youth opportunity.
• Minimum 5 years of nonprofit fundraising leadership, with a proven track record of securing $3M+ annually.
• Skilled in both strategy and execution; able to operate at both 30,000 feet and ground level.
• Exceptional communicator and storyteller with a compelling donor presence.
• Adept in CRM systems and data-driven decision-making.
• Strong team leadership, with a coaching mindset and a commitment to DEI.

Compensation & Location

• Location: Based in Chicago
• Competitive Compensation, commensurate with experience
• Benefits: Health, dental, vision, 401K with match, wellness stipend, generous PTO, and professional development support
• Work Environment: Inclusive, mission-driven, and high-performing culture

To Apply

Please apply here on LinkedIn.

The employer is an equal opportunity organization and is committed to building a diverse team and inclusive workplace. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

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