Sr. Director Of Developemt

About Hope Chicago

Launched in 2021, Hope Chicago is a new, non-profit seeking to reduce economic and social inequity by providing access to debt-free higher education for Chicago public school students and their adult family members. Hope Chicago’s unique two-generation approach is modeled after a similar program in Toledo pioneered by Hope Chicago co-founder Pete Kadens. By lifting up families, in addition to students, Hope Chicago aims to accelerate economic and social progress and the rebirth and restoration of Chicago communities.

Focused on providing access, Hope Chicago funds post-secondary scholarships for Chicago public school graduates and an adult family member to attend 4-year, 2-year or credentialing programs. Hope Chicago’s holistic approach also provides for students’ non-tuition costs like room and board, books, fees, and transportation, and supports scholars with wraparound support from local and national partner organizations. All students in Hope Chicago’s partner high schools are eligible. More information about Hope Chicago is available at www.hopechicago.org.

About the Role

Hope Chicago is seeking a Director of Foundation and Government Grants to manage all aspects of private and government grants for Hope Chicago. Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, this role secures $4 - $5 million annually from private grantmaking foundations and government sources. This full-time position maintains a portfolio of approximately 50 foundation donors, writes and manages public and private grant proposals, plays a key role in government relations, and researches and develops local and national funding prospects.

The position requires a results-driven and dynamic professional to successfully lead the strategy and manage an ambitious foundation and government grants portfolio in collaboration with organization leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee all research and prospecting, mailing lists, grants calendar, acknowledgments, and other general correspondence and impact reporting
• Actively monitors government funding opportunities, identifies and recommends RFPs for consideration, prepares briefing documents, and develops foundation and government grant proposals for existing and new programs
• Works with leadership and program staff to help develop fundraising strategies around organizational projects and priorities as needed
• Oversees and monitors funding contracts, following up with program and finance staff to ensure that funds are being used appropriately, that programs are being carried out as promised, and that the appropriate filings are completed on time
• Reconcile monthly and annual grants revenue and expense accounting. Maintain grants revenue and expense projections
• Manages all aspects of the foundation and government relations program with a goal of growing funding including reviewing/editing and writing a targeted selection of proposals, reports, strategy memos, letters, and other compelling fundraising materials, including budgets and financial reports
• Collaborate with program and data teams to develop grant objectives and measurable outcomes
• Ensures regular contact and strategic interaction between CEO, CDO, and key Foundation and legislative leadership
• Ensure detailed tracking and filing systems both print and electronic
• Assists as needed with special events, communications materials, and other duties as assigned

Qualifications and Competencies

• Superior analytical and writing skills, with a talent for translating complex, detailed information into clear and compelling language
• Bachelor’s degree
• Knowledge of local government, Illinois State legislative structure, and legislative process
• Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, relational databases, and government portals
• Knowledge of budgeting and basic accounting principles
• At least one to two years experience in managing the work and production of others, including cross-departmental contributors
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to respond productively to direction and feedback, and savvy to work with staff and leadership at all levels
• Ability to set priorities, meet deadlines, and outstanding attention to detail
• At least three to five years of proven success in preparing, securing, and managing government grants
• At least three to five years of relevant work experience in successful proposal writing and foundation relations within the nonprofit sector

Compensation

Salary is competitive, ranging between $75,000 - $95,000 and commensurate with experience. Hope Chicago offers full medical, dental and vision benefits, pre-tax FSA and Commuter Benefits plans, 401(k) with employer match after three months of employment, and generous vacation and wellness days.