Director of Development bei Erikson Institute

Help shape the future of early childhood equity and philanthropy.

Erikson Institute seeks a visionary development leader to deepen donor engagement, build campaign momentum, and advance justice and opportunity for all young children and families.

About Erikson Institute

Erikson Institute is a leading institution of higher education that prepares professionals to address the urgent challenges facing young children, their families, and their communities. Our innovative programs, transformative research, and impactful advocacy empower early childhood professionals to drive lasting change. Erikson strives to build a future where every child thrives.

As Erikson approaches its 60th anniversary in 2026, the Institute will celebrate six decades of leadership in early childhood education and launch a comprehensive fundraising campaign aligned with its new strategic plan and organizational framework—strengthening its reach and deepening its impact across Chicago and beyond.

The Opportunity

The Director of Development will partner closely with the Executive Director of Development to design, implement, and evaluate an integrated fundraising strategy that advances Erikson’s mission and strategic priorities.

This position plays a pivotal role in strengthening annual and campaign fundraising, deepening donor engagement, and building systems to support institutional growth during an exciting period of transformation. The Director manages the Associate Director of Development Operations and collaborates closely with colleagues across individual giving, partnership development, and strategic events.

The Director also manages a portfolio of mid-level individual donors and select corporate and foundation relationships—cultivating long-term partnerships through thoughtful engagement, solicitation, and stewardship.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy & Execution

• Partner with the Executive Director of Development to implement and assess annual, campaign, and special fundraising initiatives.
• Design and execute strategies to expand Erikson’s donor base and increase philanthropic support across individual, corporate, and foundation sectors.
• Lead annual operating support efforts, including the Annual Luncheon, digital campaigns, direct mail, and personal solicitations.
• Collaborate across departments to align fundraising activities with institutional priorities and impact goals.

Donor Cultivation & Portfolio Management

• Manage a portfolio of mid-level individual donors and prospects through strategic cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Work with the Associate Director of Partnership Development to manage select corporate and foundation donors.
• Conduct donor visits, events, and engagement activities; travel as needed to steward key relationships.

Stewardship & Communications

• Develop donor-facing materials including cases for support, impact reports, and stewardship communications.
• Establish and maintain stewardship best practices and donor recognition programs that reflect Erikson’s mission and values.
• Ensure consistency and quality across donor communications and campaign messaging.

Leadership & Performance Management

• Oversee data-informed evaluation of fundraising performance and donor pipeline development.
• Supervise, mentor, and support the Associate Director of Development Operations, fostering collaboration and professional growth.
• Represent Erikson at donor and community events, serving as an ambassador for its mission and programs.
• Stay current on philanthropic trends and best practices, integrating innovative strategies to advance Erikson’s development efforts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum seven years of progressively responsible fundraising experience, with demonstrated success securing gifts of $50,000+ and managing donor portfolios.
• Proven ability to lead and collaborate across teams in a dynamic nonprofit or educational environment.
• Exceptional written, oral, and presentation skills, including experience crafting donor communications and cases for support.
• Familiarity with Raiser’s Edge, Salesforce, or comparable CRM systems.
• Experience in education, human services, or campaign environments preferred.
• Demonstrated commitment to equity, inclusion, and community-centered philanthropy.

Why Join Erikson

At Erikson, you’ll join a collaborative and mission-driven community committed to ensuring every child and family has the opportunity to thrive. The Institute offers a hybrid work environment, competitive benefits, and the chance to play a key leadership role as it prepares for its 60th anniversary and next chapter of transformational impact.

To Apply:

Submit a résumé and cover letter, in a single PDF, outlining your experience and interest in the position.