Title: Senior Director of Engagement & Philanthropy
FLSA Status: Salary, Exempt
Salary: $85K-$100,000
Reports To: CEO
Senior Director of Engagement & Philanthropy
Ignite stands with youth on their journey to a home and a future with promise. We are a leading non-profit, human services organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty for youth, ages 10-26. While Ignite has a long-standing history that dates back to 1976, we continue to create new ways to serve our community. Today, we have more than 63 full-time and part-time staff as well as over 100 volunteers who contribute to our mission - operating with a $6M+ annual budget, poised for growth. We are looking for a forward-thinking, values-driven leader dedicated to growing our mission by advancing philanthropic and external relations objectives.
Through housing, education, employment, career planning, financial empowerment, mental health support, and community connection, we enroll more than 800 youth per year, on the path to reaching their full potential. Following their time with Ignite, many of our youth achieve financial stability and move into their own long-term home. Ignite intends to be the last program our youth will ever need, but the family and place they can always call home. As a 2025 Chicago Innovation Award winner, Ignite is leading the way in creating new housing and service models that help youth put homelessness behind them for good. At Ignite, we envision a world where all young people have the support they need to be defined by their potential, not their circumstances.
Summary
This strategic leadership position is responsible for creating a culture of philanthropy and donor stewardship inside and outside of Ignite. Driving the development and execution of Ignite's individual, community, and corporate fundraising strategies, including donor communications, events, and engagement activities. Responsible for overseeing development operations including gift administration, fundraising activities, and volunteer events - all of which are stewardship efforts that lead to strong relationships. Responsible for an annual revenue goal of just over $2.5MM, this leader will cultivate and hold relationships with corporate and individual donors, focusing on growing a pipeline of corporate prospects and institutional donors (e.g. wealth management firms, community trusts) while leading a team to support their efforts. This position is part of Ignite's Strategic Leadership Team and participates in agency decision making, strategic planning, and direct engagement with Ignite's Board of Directors.
Key Responsibilities
Fundraising Strategy & Planning
Inspire and promote a culture of philanthropy and giving throughout the organization, community, and board.
In partnership with CEO & President, set annual fundraising goals for corporate and individual giving, with specific targets for major gifts, annual appeals, sponsorships, and grants.
In partnership with CEO & President, develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy that aligns with the Ignite's mission, goals, and priorities.
Create and implement a project plan to align with a fundraising strategy that supports agency goals.
Lead staff to develop quarterly goals and deadlines.
Evaluate current fundraising and donor communication activities and identify opportunities for growth and impact.
Individual Donor and Corporate Engagement
Champion meaningful relationships with stakeholders and lead team members in their stewardship efforts.
Attend networking events, utilize memberships, and cultivate opportunities to speak on behalf of Ignite and its mission.
Cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with corporate partners and individual donors, ensuring they are engaged and recognized for their support.
Drive lead generation for new corporate and institutional partners. Partner with Board of Directors to grow pipeline and cultivate corporate and individual prospects.
Partner with Office of CEO for Ignite's 50th Anniversary.
Lead sponsorship strategy and acquisition for the year.
Lead team responsible for volunteer activities that cultivate donor and corporate engagement.
Oversee team responsible for fundraising events, including the Ignite & Shine Gala.
Donor Communications & Stewardship
Ensure effective and timely recognition of constituent engagement (individuals and corporate partners), including through thank-you letters, donor events, and public acknowledgment.
Lead the development of compelling donor communications, including newsletters, impact reports, annual reports, digital media, and tailored collateral.
Partner with Office of the CEO to create annual communications and print calendar. Drive execution of cultivation and stewardship calendar.
Data Management & Reporting
Steward transition to Salesforce database.
Analyze and interpret fundraising data, provide regular reports to inform strategic decisions and track fundraising progress indicators.
Oversee the tracking, analysis, and reporting of all fundraising activities, ensuring accurate donor records and engagement metrics are maintained in the donor database.
In partnership with team, regularly report on progress toward fundraising goals, key metrics, and overall development strategy effectiveness.
Team Leadership & Development
Oversee a growing team of fundraising, event, and communications professionals.
Foster a collaborative, results-driven culture focused on relationship-building and donor-centric strategies.