CIS of Chicago is currently seeking a mid-level fundraising professional to join the team as a Gift Officer. The Gift Officer is a frontline fundraising and donor services position working with individuals and select corporations and foundations. The position is multi-faceted and a pivotal part of the organization's growth. Managing a starting portfolio of more than 50 donors, the Gift Officer will identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward contributions of $5,000 and above in support of general operations, program, and program expansion (campaign). The Gift Officer will function as part of a highly coordinated nine-person Development team.
RESPONSIBILITIES
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Develop a strong working knowledge of CIS of Chicago's mission, culture, programs, values, and priorities
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Promote gratitude in donor cultivation and stewardship
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Support the organization's Brighter Futures Campaign by identifying and cultivating prospects with the capacity to make a multi-year commitment of $25,000+
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Work with select members of the Board of Directors and Leadership Council to leverage and manage donor relationships, stewarding current donors and engaging more major donors
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Write/prepare letters of request, donor proposals, and other donor communication
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Navigate a relationship-oriented, fast-paced workplace
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Model professionalism, accountability, and aspiration in accordance with CIS culture
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Other duties as assigned as part of a growing collaborative team
CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS
CIS of Chicago seeks the following skills, knowledge, and abilities in its next Gift Officer:
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Passion for serving the most vulnerable children and commitment to the equity and social justice issues central to CIS of Chicago's mission
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Capacity to interact comfortably with major donors and the Board Directors and Leadership Council
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Highly developed interpersonal and communication skills (both written and verbal)
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Superior organizational function and adaptability; able to independently cultivate and manage donor relationships
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Ability to draft compelling donor proposals and donor correspondence
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Aptitude to create and implement new programs and opportunities for donors/clients/customers
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Experience in fundraising or a related field, with strong track record of success (at least 3 years of experience preferred); role is well-suited for candidates with direct fundraising or sales experience, though we welcome applications from non-traditional candidates
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Bachelor's degree
See full job description for details and organizational information.