About this opportunity
University of St. Francis lists this Chief Development Officer opportunity in joliet, Illinois. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
Position Details
Job Title
Chief Development Officer
Position Number
Department
University Advancement - Joliet IL
Job Grade
17
Anticipated Salary Range
$130,000-$140,000
Benefits
stfrancis.edu/employment
Notice of Nondiscrimination
The University of St. Francis does not discriminate in its employment practices or in its educational programs on the basis of any protected class. The University also prohibits retaliation against any person opposing discrimination or harassment or participating in any internal or external investigation or complaint process related to allegations of misconduct. For a complete copy of USF's Policy on Equal Opportunity, Harassment, and Nondiscrimination for All Faculty, Students, Employees and Third Parties or for more information, please go to or contact the Title IX Coordinator at
Position Summary
Chief Development Officer (CDO) is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing a comprehensive, multi-year, data-driven fundraising strategy aligned with the organization's mission. Reporting to the President, CDO is tasked with identifying philanthropic supporters to expand contributions from private financial support.
COLLABORATIVE NATURE OF POSITION
The success of philanthropy relies heavily on effective, university- and community-wide collaboration - including the Board of Trustees, alumni, senior administration, university athletics, students, faculty, alumni in general, and members of civil society (non-profit and for-profit businesses and governmental bodies) to access the needs and outcomes of the University. The CDO will instill a culture of philanthropy throughout the organization and in the community with a broad base of meaningful engagement opportunities to encourage constituencies to investment in and support the University.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS
The Chief Development Officer reports to the President of the University and serves on the Executive Council. The alumni, advancement, and external relations functions report to the CDO, which presently include the following direct reports:
Assistant Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations
Assistant Director of Scholarships and Community Relations
Donor Engagement and Giving Manager
University Advancement Development Associate
Others, as defined.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Serve as the chief advisor to the President on all matters related to institutional advancement.
Develop, coordinate, and execute long- and short-term funding strategies in collaboration with faculty and administration including annual giving, online and direct marketing campaigns, major gifts, special events, and other solicitations.
Set goals and benchmarks based on industry best practices that support the mission focus and measure the department employees' accomplishments, individually and collectively.
Oversee the enhancement of alumni relations and support new efforts to engage and renew relationships.
Seek and cultivate new corporate partnerships to enhance the mission and services of the University.
Prepares, recommends, and implements budgets for assigned areas, monitors expenditures, and assures that human and financial resources are allocated efficiently and effectively.
Actively and effectively engage with Trustees, alumni, and other key volunteers to identify and request financial support and involvement, which may entail some travel.
Link constituent relationship management efforts to institutionalize donor data and preferences.
Directly manage a portfolio of 20-30 (non-Trustee) donors giving $10,000+ annually.
Support the President in managing his or her portfolio of donors - including Trustees.
Maintain in-depth knowledge of the University's distinctive history, mission and philosophy, and program offerings.
Serve as and/or support the University's spokesperson for select media inquiries as assigned.
Provide managerial leadership of and strategic direction to the Advancement office.
Adhere to the highest ethical standards; convey a professional and positive demeanor; and lead division in ongoing professional development.
Manage all resources required for division programs and initiatives.
Demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement.
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor's degree in relevant/related field.
Five years+ of successful fundraising and external relations leadership experience.
In-depth working knowledge of and experience with best practices related to fund development and prospective donor identification.
Significant experience in major gift solicitation.
Ability to organize and oversee special events sponsored by the University as part of its expanded fundraising goals.
Management style supportive of building respectful and collaborative relationships with all members of the campus community.
Ability to actively participate in campus, Joliet, and Will County communities where opportunities to represent the university to prospective donors and friends exist.
Willingness to support the Catholic and Franciscan values of the University.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Mastery of data and standard technology programs (e.g. Microsoft Office).
Ability to perform the physical requirements of the position.
Preferred Requirements
Experience in successful fundraising and external relations in higher education.
Experience with Banner.
10 years' experience in university advancement.
Hours/Shift/Work Schedule
Full-time exempt position, it is expected that work will be performed to completion. Minimum of 40 hours per week, days, Monday through Friday; evening and/or weekend hours as needed.
Physical Requirements of Position
Work is performed in an office setting with minimal exposure to health or safety hazards. Substantial time is spent working on a computer, local and national travel and meeting with individuals in a variety of settings.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
FP
Open Date
08/31/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Worksite address
joliet, IL, 60432, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.