ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Program Development Director Jobs in Chicago, IL

UCAN

Director of Development

Chicago, IL

Vice President of Development Direct Reports: Development Manager,Development & Marketing ... Orients and trains new employees according to program and department guidelines to ensure all new ...

City Year

Senior Director, Development

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

This position will play a critical role by assisting the Managing Director of Development in the successful execution of a substantial and sustainable individual giving program, the Red Jacket ...

Cityyear

Senior Director, Development

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$90K - $100K/yr

This position will play a critical role by assisting the Managing Director of Development in the successful execution of a substantial and sustainable individual giving program, the Red Jacket ...

Advocate Aurora Health

Director of Development

Chicago, IL · On-site

$51.05 - $76.60/hr

The Director of Development will manage significant portfolios of individual, foundation, and ... Understanding of different aspects of comprehensive fundraising program. Experience working with ...

Advocate Aurora Health

Director of Development

Chicago, IL · On-site

$51.05 - $76.60/hr

The Director of Development will manage significant portfolios of individual, foundation, and ... Understanding of different aspects of comprehensive fundraising program. Experience working with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProgram Development Director JobsProgram Development Director Jobs in Chicago, IL

Program Development Director information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.4K

$80.6K

$141.1K

How much do program development director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for program development director in Chicago, IL is $80,553.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,600.00 and $95,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a program director make in the US?

A program development director in the US typically earns between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior roles or those in large organizations may offer higher compensation, often supplemented with benefits and bonuses.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

In media, roles such as senior producers, media executives, and content directors often earn $150,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, leadership responsibilities, and advanced skills in project management and digital platforms. High-level positions in broadcasting, advertising, and digital media companies tend to have compensation in this range.

Is a program director higher than a program manager?

A Program Development Director typically holds a higher position than a Program Manager, overseeing multiple projects or programs and setting strategic direction. Program Directors often have broader responsibilities, including leadership, budgeting, and stakeholder management, while Program Managers focus on executing specific projects within established parameters.

What does a Program Development Director do?

A Program Development Director is responsible for overseeing the creation, expansion, and management of an organization’s programs or services. They identify opportunities for new programs, seek funding or partnerships, and ensure that existing programs meet organizational goals and community needs. Their duties often include strategic planning, budgeting, evaluating program effectiveness, and leading teams. This role is crucial for driving growth and ensuring programs align with the organization's mission.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Program Development Director can earn $10,000 or more per month through senior-level responsibilities, project management, and strategic planning, often requiring extensive experience and leadership skills rather than formal degrees. High earning potential in such roles depends on industry, organization size, and individual expertise, with some professionals reaching this level through proven results and specialized knowledge. Certifications in project management or related fields can enhance prospects but are not always mandatory.

What is the difference between Program Development Director vs Program Manager?

AspectProgram Development DirectorProgram Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple programs, develops strategic plans, manages teams, and aligns programs with organizational goals.Manages specific projects or programs, ensures project delivery, and coordinates activities within a program.
Required CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in related field, experience in program planning, leadership skills.Bachelor’s degree, project management experience, often certifications like PMP.
Work EnvironmentStrategic, leadership-focused, often in office settings or remote leadership roles.Operational, detail-oriented, often in office or on-site project locations.

The Program Development Director focuses on strategic oversight and long-term planning across multiple programs, while the Program Manager handles day-to-day project execution within specific programs. Both roles require strong organizational skills and relevant credentials, but their scope and focus differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Program Development Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Program Development Director, you need expertise in strategic planning, program design, and project management, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field and several years of leadership experience. Familiarity with grant writing software, budgeting tools, and data analysis systems is commonly required. Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder relationship-building skills set top performers apart. These capabilities are crucial for designing impactful programs, securing resources, and ensuring successful implementation and outcomes.

What are some typical challenges a Program Development Director faces when launching new initiatives, and how can they be addressed?

Program Development Directors often encounter challenges such as aligning new initiatives with organizational goals, securing stakeholder buy-in, and managing cross-functional teams. Effective communication and strategic planning are crucial to overcoming these obstacles. Building strong relationships with key stakeholders and regularly evaluating program metrics can help ensure successful implementation and continuous improvement of new programs.
What are the most commonly searched types of Program Development jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Program Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Program Development Director jobs in Chicago, IL? For Program Development Director jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Development Director jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Program Development Director jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Program Development Director jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Program Development Director job openings:
Program Development Director jobs near you
Regional Development Director (Chicago)

Regional Development Director (Chicago)

Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD)

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

The Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) seeks to hire a full-time Regional Development Director. This member of FDD's development team will report to the Senior Director and be responsible for managing and growing a high-value donor portfolio based in Chicago, with coverage across the greater Midwest region.

This role is ideal for a driven fundraising professional with experience securing five- and six-figure gifts, cultivating philanthropic relationships, and contributing to strategic revenue growth.

The ideal candidate is an entrepreneurial, relationship-oriented professional with strong communication skills, the ability to develop fluency in foreign policy and national security issues, and a commitment to representing FDD with credibility and professionalism.

This position will work closely with development leadership, FDD policy experts and scholars, and donor relations and events teams to engage high-capacity donors and prospects.

Key Responsibilities

Portfolio Management & Growth

  • Manage and grow a portfolio of major donors and prospects based in Chicago and across the Midwest.
  • Execute cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies aligned with FDD's organizational priorities.
  • Work toward annual revenue goals through consistent outreach, relationship management, and pipeline development.
  • Maintain regular, high-touch engagement with donors and prospects to communicate FDD's work and impact.

Donor Engagement & Relationship Management

  • Serve as a primary point of contact for assigned donors and prospects.
  • Coordinate and support donor meetings with FDD leadership, scholars, and experts.
  • Prepare donor briefings, background materials, and follow-up communications.
  • Support proposal development and donor strategy execution.

Regional Engagement & Events

  • Represent FDD at donor programs, briefings, and small events throughout Chicago and the broader Midwest.
  • Help identify opportunities to convene donors and prospects for meaningful engagement.
  • Partner with internal teams to support the execution of donor-facing events tied to portfolio strategy.

Collaboration & Team Integration

  • Work closely with development leadership on portfolio strategy and growth opportunities.
  • Collaborate across donor relations, events, policy, and operations teams to ensure strong coordination.
  • Support internal processes related to donor tracking, proposals, and stewardship.
  • Contribute to team-wide best practices and development efforts.

Qualifications

  • 5–8 years of professional fundraising or relevant relationship-management experience.
  • Experience supporting or securing five- and six-figure gifts.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage relationships and advance donor engagement.
  • Interest in foreign policy, national security, and geopolitical issues, with a willingness to develop deeper expertise.
  • Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and operate in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
  • Self-starter with strong attention to detail and follow-through.
  • Willingness to travel regularly within the Midwest and periodically to Washington, DC.

Application Requirements

  • Resume
  • Cover letter

FDD is an equal opportunity employer. If you require an accommodation in order to apply for this position, please contact Jean Thurman at jean@fdd.org or (202) 207-0190.

This is a remote position based in Chicago, requiring regular travel throughout the Midwest and periodic travel to FDD's Washington, DC office. This role has a projected salary band of $120,000–$160,000 per year, based on the candidate's experience and qualifications. Additional benefits are available, including healthcare coverage based on eligibility. Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to apply here.

FDD is a Washington, DC-based, nonpartisan research institute focusing on foreign policy and national security. For more information, please visit FDD.org and follow FDD on X @FDD.

Apply