Chief Development Officer

Chief Development Officer

Saint Ignatius College Prep - Chicago, IL

Saint Ignatius College Prep seeks a Chief Development Officer (CDO). As a key member of the President's leadership team, the CDO designs and implements comprehensive advancement strategies that strengthen philanthropic support, increase visibility, and enhance accessibility. This leader oversees all fundraising efforts and ensures alignment with the School's values, mission, and long-term strategic goals.

We're partnering with the executive recruiting firm, Heidrick & Struggles, to conduct this search. For further information about the opportunity or to share questions, ideas, or interest in the role, please contact the Heidrick team directly at [email protected]

Job Title: Chief Development Officer 

Department: Development

Reports To: President

FLSA Status: Exempt

Employment Status: 12-month, full-time

Position Summary

The Chief Development Officer (CDO) is a senior leader responsible for advancing the mission of the School through strategic leadership of development, alumni relations, marketing/communications, and public relations. As a key member of the President's leadership team, the CDO designs and implements comprehensive advancement strategies that strengthen philanthropic support, increase visibility, and enhance accessibility. This role oversees all fundraising efforts and ensures alignment with the School's values, mission, and long-term strategic goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all advancement functions, including development, alumni relations, communications, and public relations
• Develop and execute annual and long-range fundraising strategies, including major gifts, annual fund, planned giving, and corporate/foundation relations
• Cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors, including alumni, parents, and community partners
• Provide leadership and supervision to advancement staff, including performance management and strategic direction
• Partner with the President and Board of Trustees to support fundraising initiatives and donor engagement
• Oversee donor relations, recognition programs, and advancement communications
• Strengthen community relations with local organizations, civic entities, and institutional partners
• Collaborate with school leadership on strategic planning, visibility, and institutional growth

• Other duties as assigned 

Scope and Impact

This role has broad organizational impact, shaping the School's fundraising strategy, public presence, and long-term financial sustainability. The CDO exercises significant independent judgment, directly influences major gift revenue, and plays a key role in strategic decision-making. The position interacts extensively with senior leadership, trustees, donors, and the broader community. 

Qualifications - Required

• Demonstrated experience in institutional advancement, fundraising, and operations management
• Proven leadership experience managing teams and complex initiatives
• Strong background in strategic planning and implementation
• Experience in donor cultivation, major gifts, and fundraising program oversight

• Practicing Catholic in full communion with the Church with appreciation for Jesuit education 

Qualifications - Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in business, leadership, or related field
• Experience in education or nonprofit sector advancement

• Experience working with boards and high-level stakeholders 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and public speaking skills
• Strong leadership presence with ability to build trust and relationships across diverse stakeholders
• Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and lead complex initiatives
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and organizational awareness

• Ability to engage effectively with donors, trustees, alumni, and community partners 

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This position operates in a professional school and community environment with frequent interaction at on-campus and off-campus events. The role requires extended periods of sitting, communication, and travel to meetings and events. Evening and weekend work is regularly required.

Compensation and Schedule

• This is a full-time, exempt position.
• Salary Range: $190,000-$210,000
• Compensation is salaried and commensurate with experience. 

• The expected work schedule typically ranges from 40–55 hours per week, including evenings and events as required. 

Performance Expectations

• Achievement of annual and long-term fundraising goals
• Successful cultivation and stewardship of major donors
• Effective leadership and development of advancement team
• Increased visibility and engagement with alumni and community stakeholders
• Alignment of advancement strategies with school mission and strategic plan

• Strong collaboration with President, leadership team, and Board of Trustees