Chief Development Officer

Chief Development Officer

The University of St. Francis invites applications for Chief Development Officer. Reporting directly to the university president, this position serves as the senior administration officer to provide strategic leadership and direction for all university fundraising activities. Primary duties include advancement-related research and planning, major gift requests, university stewardship activities, donor and alumni relations, leadership of annual giving programs, and donor data management. Applicants must demonstrate familiarity with the University's Catholic and Franciscan identity, and be committed to building collaborative partnerships with internal and external university constituencies. Review of applications begins immediately, though all applications received prior to September 28 are preferred. Applications must include a cover letter, resume, and list of three references. Any questions may be directed to search committee chair Brian Dilger at View email address on click.appcast.io.

Position Information

Job Title - Chief Development Officer

Position Number - 005000

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 View email address on click.appcast.io.

Position Summary - The 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 - FP0801-16

Open Date - 08/31/2026

Close Date

Open Until Filled - Yes