Chief Development Officer

Latin School of Chicago is partnering with IndySchool Consultancy to find the next Chief Development Officer. Preferred consideration will be given to candidates who contact Tim Viands or Kevin Kunst directly at [email protected] or [email protected]. Candidates may also apply directly here:

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

Responsibilities

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.

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.

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.

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.

Requirements

• 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.
• 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.

To Learn More:

Pay: $220,000.00 - $250,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person