EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Strong interest in the mission and programs of the Chicago Architecture Center, and an appreciation for architecture and design.
• Bachelor’s degree required
• 10 or more years professional development experience, including a proven track record of success with high-level volunteers, annual funds and membership programs, capital and endowment campaigns and major gift initiatives; comprehensive senior-level experience in a cultural non-profit organization desired.
• Demonstrated ability to provide management oversight, team leadership, and direction, including creating and managing a budget.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills are required, with an in-depth knowledge of Chicago’s philanthropic community.
• Strong communication skills including the ability to write clearly and persuasively and to generate excitement about CAC’s mission, work, and impact.
• Visionary and goal-oriented, with a proven track record of revenue growth and diversification over time.
• Team player with excellent organizational, networking, and relationship-building skills.
• Confidence and ability to make direct asks and cultivate potential donors across sectors, including law firms, corporations, and foundations.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and implement a comprehensive development program for a complex organization and demonstrated skill in the full spectrum of development and membership activities.
• Success in cultivating relationships with individual donors and a successful track record of soliciting major individual gifts and securing institutional and government grants.
• Ability to think strategically while remaining focused on the detail-oriented work and follow-through required by the position.
• Experience with the variety of computer applications and technology that support development activities; Tessitura helpful. Must be tech-savvy and able to execute digital fundraising.
• A curious mind; must be curious about new ways of conducting fundraising.
• Ability to extract and analyze data to make effective, efficient decisions about donor strategy and process.
• A forward thinker, driven by innovation, transformation, and impact. The successful candidate must thrive on developing new philanthropic best practices in the current and post-COVID world.
• Commitment to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for staff, volunteers, and visitors.