Development Manager

Rebuild is non-for-profit artistic project on Chicago’s South Side, founded by artist Theaster Gates in 2010. Innovating at the intersection of cultural, archival, and land stewardship, Rebuild operates and manages a constellation of formerly disused and dispossessed sites, including The Land School, Kenwood Gardens, the Listening House and Archive House (formerly Dorchester Projects), the 6 Flat, Dorchester Art + Housing Collaborative, the Stony Island Arts Bank and a number of artist residences. Through nearly two decades of investments in space and artists, Rebuild has built an ecosystem of venues and vehicles for experimental artistic practice, contemporary archival stewardship, and radical hospitality across four city blocks. Headquartered at The Land School, the project aims to create the conditions for artistic autonomy and community self-determination through art, culture, public programming, and urban planning. Position Summary Rebuild Foundation is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Development Manager to lead the implementation of our development initiatives. In collaboration with the Executive Director and Director of The Land School and General Manager, the Development Manager will play a pivotal role in strategizing, planning, and executing fundraising efforts, donor engagement, partnership development, and grant writing. This role is integral to our mission of securing funding to support our artistic and community-driven projects and ensure compliance with funder requirements. This position is structured as a 90‑day, fixed‑term contract role. At the conclusion of the contract period, and contingent upon organizational needs and mutual agreement regarding performance and fit, the role may be considered for extension or potential transition to a regular, full‑time position. This statement does not constitute a guarantee of continued employment. Key Responsibilities Donor Engagement Initially setting up operational infrastructure for new internal development function; then expanding individual giving, foundation support, and corporate partnerships; driving strategy across annual giving, major gifts, grants, and sponsorships; partnering closely with leadership and the Board to unlock new opportunities; and helping position Rebuild for long-term sustainability and growth. Cultivate relationships with prospective individual donors, build and sustain meaningful, mission‑aligned relationships and nurture existing donor relationships to enhance engagement and retention. Manage a strategic portfolio of individual donors and prospects through research, cultivation, stewardship, and solicitation. Lead, develop and grow individual giving efforts, including proposal development and donor reporting. Coordinate and participate in donor meetings, events, and networking activities and collaborate with other Rebuild Foundation departments to identify and establish strategic partnerships. Grants and Institutional Support Research and identify potential grant opportunities from foundations, corporations, and other funding sources. Evaluate alignment between grant requirements and Rebuild Foundation’s mission and program priorities. Develop persuasive and compelling grant proposals that effectively communicate Rebuild Foundation’s goals, programming, and impact to the artistic community. Collaborate with other departments to gather necessary information and data for proposals. Develop grant proposal strategy, tracking system, outlines, timelines, and milestones in collaboration with the General Manager. Create comprehensive project budgets and narratives that align with grant guidelines. Ensure timely submission of all grant applications and project deadlines. Special Events Plan, organize, and execute fundraising events, experiences, and donor cultivation activities. Support corporate sponsorship strategy and execution, expanding sponsorship and underwriting opportunities across programs and events. Prepare and coordinate invitations to special events, Rebuild programming and VIP functions. In partnership with Director of The Land School, manage VIP, Donor, Funder communications for special events, fundraising solicitations and other development functions. Skills and Experience Bachelor’s degree in a related field. At least 5+ years of experience working in fund development and grant writing (non‑profit arts environment preferred but not required). Experience implementing development strategies and plans and individual stewardship Attention to detail and ability to adhere to strict grant deadlines and submission deadlines Able to work collaboratively, creatively, and independently with colleagues, partners, artists, and external stakeholders. Passion for Rebuild Foundation’s mission and the ability to convey its impact through writing. Ability to write and synthesize materials and communicate information effectively to different audiences. Strong organizational and time‑management skills to manage multiple proposal deadlines. Familiarity with grant databases, online submission platforms, and grant/donor management software. Characteristics You are kind, culturally aware, curious, and honest You are committed to racial equity and justice, understanding how creative empowerment and cultural preservation inform Rebuild Foundation’s work You demonstrate excellent judgment and understanding of the current landscape for content creation and maximizing engagement You are a storyteller with experience helping organizations tell their stories through grant applications Independent worker with the ability to anticipate needs Team player, willing to support when and where needed Physical Requirements This role requires a combination of office-based and on-site engagement. Responsibilities may include attending events, standing for extended periods, and occasional lifting or transport of materials (up to approximately 25 lbs). Evening and weekend availability is required based on events, programs and fundraising schedules. Equal Opportunity Employer Statement Rebuild Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law. How To Apply Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume, a cover letter, and a portfolio of relevant work to View email address on click.appcast.io with “DEVELOPMENT MANAGER” in the subject line. Application deadline is July 6, 2026. #J-18808-Ljbffr