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Program Manager Foundation Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Premium Support Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$46K - $75K/yr

Excited to embark on the journey of Premium Support Program Manager in Meltwater? We're seeking a ... Bachelor's degree or above, ideally in Business, Marketing, or Communication, laying the foundation ...

Be Responsible for driving the execution of the key programs that achieve the client's strategic ... Bachelor's degree or above, ideally in Business, Marketing, or Communication, laying the foundation ...

Foundation Platform Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150K/yr

Job Summary Manage the day-to-day administration of the firm's experience management system, Litera Foundation, including overseeing end-user training, onboarding, user adoption programs, and ...

That's why we offer a Manager in Training Program that provides hands-on skill building and ... We take pride in promoting from within and building a strong foundation for future growth as one of ...

Showing results 41-60

Program Manager Foundation information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.7K

$110.7K

$161.7K

How much do program manager foundation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager foundation in Chicago, IL is $110,700.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $136,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a program manager foundation do?

A Program Manager Foundation is responsible for overseeing and coordinating various programs or projects within a foundation or nonprofit organization. They ensure that initiatives align with the foundation’s mission, manage budgets, track progress, and report outcomes to stakeholders. Their role often includes collaborating with internal teams, external partners, and donors to maximize the impact of the foundation’s work. Program Managers also evaluate program effectiveness and recommend improvements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a program manager foundation?

To thrive as a Program Manager Foundation, you need strong project management skills, a background in nonprofit or philanthropic work, and often a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with grant management software, budgeting tools, and project tracking systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and stakeholder engagement skills set top candidates apart. These abilities are crucial for effectively overseeing programs, ensuring stakeholder alignment, and achieving the foundation’s mission-driven goals.

How does a program manager foundation typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

Program Manager Foundation professionals often serve as a bridge between various departments, such as finance, communications, and program delivery teams. They coordinate efforts to ensure that program objectives align with organizational goals and stakeholder expectations. Regular cross-functional meetings, status updates, and collaborative problem-solving sessions are common, allowing the Program Manager to address challenges proactively and keep projects on schedule. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for fostering trust and ensuring smooth collaboration across teams.

What is the difference between Program Manager Foundation vs Program Coordinator?

AspectProgram Manager FoundationProgram Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree, certifications like PMP often preferredAssociate's or Bachelor's degree, relevant certifications optional
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects, strategic planning, higher responsibilitySupports project tasks, administrative duties, less strategic focus
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in nonprofits, government, large organizationsUsed across various sectors, including nonprofits and corporate settings

The Program Manager Foundation typically holds more strategic responsibilities and requires relevant certifications, overseeing multiple projects. In contrast, the Program Coordinator focuses on supporting project activities with administrative tasks. Both roles are essential but differ in scope and seniority within organizations.

What are popular job titles related to Program Manager Foundation jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Program Manager Foundation jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Program Manager Foundation jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Program Manager Foundation job openings:

Infographic showing various Program Manager Foundation job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,700 per year, or $53.2 per hour.

Director of Foundation Relations & Grants

GREATER CHICAGO FOOD DEPOSITORY

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

The Director of Foundation Relations & Grants provides strategic leadership and day-to-day management of the foundation and institutional partners of the Greater Chicago Food Depository. This role shares responsibility with the Senior Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations for donor engagement, portfolio strategy, grant development, data-informed decision-making, and team leadership. This role is expected to supervise and mentor the Foundation Relations team in alignment with our organizational values and strategic goals.

Strategic Leadership & Thinking
  • Create strategies that significantly increase foundation, government, and institutional funding through multi-year partnerships.
  • Partner with the Senior Director to translate data, insights, and fundraising performance into clear plans, priorities, and results.
  • Think broadly about donor engagement, grant strategy, portfolio performance, and revenue growth.
  • Maintain a strong focus on impact and meaningful outcomes.
Team Leadership & Management
  • Manage and mentor the Foundation Relations team, including grant-writing resources.
  • Provide coaching, accountability, and strategic guidance.
  • Support professional growth while ensuring execution against goals and standards.
  • Monitor team progress through KPIs, portfolio performance, and revenue goals.
  • Partner with the Senior Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations to foster a collaborative, results-oriented team culture.
Donor Engagement & Portfolio Strategy
  • Manage a portfolio of approximately 50-75 foundation, institution, and government funding relationships.
  • Lead cultivation, solicitation, stewardship, renewal, and recognition strategies for foundation and institutional partners.
  • Recommend and support strategy development for foundation relationships in collaboration with the Senior Director and cross-functional partners.
  • Oversee development and implementation of donor engagement and stewardship plans.
  • Review and approve proposals, reports, grant agreements, and donor communications.
  • Ensure all proposals and reports accurately communicate organizational impact.
  • Track relationship activity and donor strategy in StratusLIVE.
Data Analysis, Insights & Executive Reporting
  • Develop, analyze, and interpret fundraising data to surface insights and trends across pipelines, portfolios, donors, grants, and campaigns.
  • Translate data related to budgets, forecasting, and pipelines into concise, actionable insights that support planning and decision-making.
  • Work closely with the Senior Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations to create clear narratives that accompany data for executive audiences.
  • Prepare high-quality reports and presentations for executive leadership and board audiences.
  • Track foundation revenue goals and support annual budgeting, forecasting, and long-range revenue planning.
  • Use portfolio and pipeline analysis to identify funding gaps, renewal risks, growth opportunities, and strategic priorities.
  • Ensure data is used to shape plans rather than simply being reported.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Partner with Individual Giving, Corporate Relations, Marketing & Communications, Community Impact, Finance, and other leaders to identify funding opportunities.
  • Collaborate on donor engagement and stewardship strategies when funders have relationships across multiple fundraising programs.
  • Support executive leadership, board, and team to address institutional funder reporting needs.

QUALIFICATIONS 

  • Bachelor’s degree and 7-10 years of fundraising experience required
  •  Supervisory experience required
  • Demonstrated success in hitting philanthropic revenue goals and milestones 
  • Strong project management and time management skills
  • Advanced computer skills with Microsoft Office Suite
  • Experience with StratusLIVE or other CRM
  • Strong presentation, communications, and interpersonal skills a must
  • Flexibility and sense of humor; thrives in a fast-paced working environment

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance coverage
• Employer-paid life and disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution
• Generous paid time off
• Parental leave
• On-site gym
• $3,000 annual employer-paid ThrivePass lifestyle and wellness benefit program
• $250 employee referral bonus