Contractual Development Writer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Director of Development

Chicago Run – Full‑time, based in Chicago, IL. Reporting to the Executive Director. Salary $80,000–$90,000. Start date: when the application closes.

About Chicago Run

Founded in 2007, Chicago Run empowers thousands of Chicago’s young people, from pre‑K through high school, with access to running and physical activity programs. Our programs meet young people where they are, partnering with schools and community organizations to provide regular opportunities for trauma‑informed, non‑competitive physical activity that improves academic performance, positive relationships, social‑emotional skills, and physical and mental health.

We reach thousands of youth participants each year through partnerships with Chicago Public Schools, community organizations, and parks, focusing on historically disinvested communities on the South and West sides. By partnering with stakeholders deeply rooted in these communities, we reach more young people and deepen our impact.

Programs

• Striders (pre‑K to 2nd grade): high‑quality physical activity breaks using games that develop vital gross motor skills.
• Chicago Runners (3rd–5th grade): physical activity breaks that promote well‑being and improve classroom concentration.
• Running Mates (middle & high school): running and physical activity to improve social and emotional well‑being in an inclusive, non‑competitive environment where students work toward completing a local 5K while building positive self‑image, setting goals, and developing relationships with peers and mentors.
• LACE Up! (Leadership, Action, Community, Endurance): a work‑based learning program that trains students to serve as leaders, mentors, and coaches for current Chicago Run participants.

Summary of the Role

Chicago Run seeks a strategic, dynamic, and accomplished development leader to accelerate philanthropic growth and institutional sustainability. As the funding landscape shifts, the Director of Development will lead the charge in diversifying revenue streams and expanding our donor base to support the thousands of students we serve across Chicago.

Reporting to the Executive Director, this senior leader will be the key architect of our fundraising operations. The role requires a builder mindset—someone who can thoughtfully design and rapidly execute strategies while providing high‑level oversight to a team of fractional and contractual professionals.

We are looking for an accomplished professional with a track record of transforming development programs, engaging donors through meaningful program‑led experiences, and positioning organizations for long‑term, scalable impact.

Responsibilities Strategic Leadership and Planning

• Establish fundraising priorities and performance metrics in collaboration with leadership to achieve annual revenue targets of $1.5 M–$1.8 M.
• Design and execute multi‑year strategies for donor acquisition, retention, and stewardship across all levels, including major gifts, grants, and government funding.
• Lead the creation of comprehensive donor stewardship programs, including recognition activities and cultivation events, ensuring integration with program leadership for authentic engagement.

Mission Advocacy & Representation

• Prepare and support the Executive Director for high‑stakes solicitations while collaborating with communications staff to translate program outcomes into compelling narratives for donors and foundations.
• Ensure all donor strategies, grant proposals, and cultivation plans are deeply rooted in Chicago Run’s mission and current program data.
• Regularly participate in school visits, community runs, and program events to maintain up‑to‑date knowledge and provide donors with front‑line insights.

Board Development and Governance

• Act as the primary development liaison for the Executive Director and Board; hold leadership accountable for fundraising goals and 100 % board giving participation.
• Support board recruitment by identifying prospects with significant fundraising reach and influence.
• Educate and guide board members on fundraising best practices, donor engagement, and solicitation techniques.

Foundation Relations and Institutional Giving

• Cultivate and maintain high‑level relationships with foundation and corporate partners.
• Oversee the end‑to‑end grant process, from identification and alignment with organizational priorities to compliance and reporting.
• Partner with Finance & Operations staff to prepare materials for annual and funder‑specific audits.

Development Operations and Team Management

• Manage fractional and contractual staff, including CRM support, researchers, grant writers, and event coordinators.
• Maintain protocols for database management (CRM), gift processing, and financial reconciliation to ensure accurate reporting and data‑driven decision‑making.
• Manage the development budget, ensuring cost‑effective resource allocation and ROI.

Special Events and Campaigns

• Provide vision for signature events—including the 2028 20th Anniversary Gala—ensuring they meet revenue targets and deepen donor engagement.
• Drive the growth and success of Team Chicago Run, the organization’s signature endurance fundraising program; oversee athlete recruitment, provide high‑touch fundraising support for participants, and manage relationships with major partners.
• Oversee annual fund campaigns and direct mail programs to maintain a healthy donor pipeline.
• Supervise event contractors and evaluate event ROI to recommend strategic pivots for future growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and 5–7 years of progressively responsible fundraising experience, including individual giving, annual fund, major gifts, and foundation relations. Special event experience is a bonus.
• Ongoing commitment to professional learning—staying informed about trends in fundraising, nonprofit practice, technologies, and Chicago’s philanthropic and civic landscape is a must.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Experience with CRM systems and database management; Neon experience is a plus.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including advanced Excel skills.
• Ability to build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders, including donors, program partners, board members, and youth.

Working Conditions

• Professional office environment; full‑time with standard Monday‑Friday 9 AM–5 PM hours. Occasional evening and weekend work required as duties demand.
• Primarily office‑based with some local travel required; opportunities for flexibility and occasional remote work.
• Chicago Run is committed to equal opportunity employment, providing opportunities regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability status, or veteran status.
• Individuals who are members of Chicago Run’s priority communities—Austin, Greater Garfield Park, Lawndale, Englewood, Auburn Gresham—are encouraged to apply.

Compensation and Benefits

• Full‑time, exempt position with a competitive salary commensurate with experience. Comprehensive benefits include health insurance, retirement plan, professional development opportunities, and generous paid time off.
• Position requires some evening and weekend hours for events and donor meetings; local travel to program sites and donor meetings is expected.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Chicago Run is an equal opportunity employer. We're committed to building a diverse team and providing employment opportunities regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability status, or veteran status.