Career Development Director Jobs in Park Ridge, IL

Job Title: Development Director

Location: Hybrid - Northwest Suburbs of Chicago (Townships of Elk Grove, Palatine, Schaumburg, and Wheeling)

Job Type: Contract, Part-time, approximately 20 hours per week

Schedule Type: Flexible

Organization: FamilyForward

Location: Chicago Northwest Suburbs preferred (Hybrid)

Salary: $40,000 annually

Pay Schedule: Monthly

Reports To: Executive Director

About FamilyForward

At FamilyForward, we believe every family deserves the opportunity to build a stable, thriving future—and that lasting change happens when people are supported, empowered, and connected. 

For over two decades, we have walked alongside low-income, working parents in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, helping them overcome barriers and create better lives for their families. Through a powerful combination of rental assistance, personalized financial coaching, career support, and one-on-one mentoring, we don’t just address immediate needs - we help families transform their futures. 

When you join FamilyForward, you become part of a mission-driven community dedicated to breaking cycles of instability and creating pathways to opportunity. Together, we are not just supporting families - we are helping them move forward with strength, dignity, and the power to thrive. 

Job Summary:

FamilyForward is seeking a strategic, entrepreneurial, and mission-driven Development Director (contract, part-time) to lead and execute our fundraising efforts. This role is responsible for designing and implementing a comprehensive development strategy that grows and sustains revenue across multiple streams.

In this new, individual contributor role, the ideal candidate is both a strategic thinker and hands-on executor who is comfortable working independently in a flexible, primarily remote environment while collaborating closely with leadership and partners.

Essential Responsibilities:

Fundraising Strategy & Execution

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan aligned with FamilyForward’s mission and priorities
• Build and manage a diversified funding portfolio including major gifts, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, individual giving campaigns, and special events
• Identify, cultivate, and steward donor relationships to increase giving and retention

Donor Engagement & Communications

• Partner with communications resources to craft compelling donor messaging and campaigns
• Develop donor recognition and stewardship strategies
• Create targeted appeals and materials that inspire giving and deepen engagement

Leadership Collaboration

• Work closely with the Executive Director to align fundraising with organizational priorities
• Collaborate with Executive Director to ensure proper representation at local chamber of commerce meetings and events
• Partner with the Board of Directors to support fundraising efforts, including donor outreach
• Present fundraising strategies, progress, and results to leadership

Data & Performance Management

• Track, monitor, and analyze fundraising performance and donor data
• Evaluate effectiveness of campaigns and initiatives and adjust strategies accordingly
• Maintain accurate donor records and reporting systems

Qualifications:

Education and Experience

• 4-year college degree
• 5+ years of nonprofit fundraising or development experience (or comparable)
• Preferred experience in human services, workforce development, or family-focused nonprofits
• Preferred demonstrated success in a small or growing organization
• Preferred proven success securing funding across multiple revenue streams (Individuals, major gifts, corporate, etc.)

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience working with or supporting board of directors in fundraising activities
• Self-directed, highly organized, and able to thrive in a flexible, part-time environment
• Familiarity with donor databases/CRM systems and fundraising analytics, Salesforce preferred
• Well versed in leveraging social media

Work Environment & Expectations:

• This is a hybrid role with the majority or work done remotely on a flexible schedule. In person, work schedules are determined by meetings with the Board and key work partners.
• Ability to travel locally (throughout Northwest suburbs) for meetings and donor relationship building
• Possess and maintains a valid driver’s license.
• Willing to complete a background check.

Benefits:

· Flexible work schedule.