Senior Director Of Development

Company Description Project H.O.O.D. is a 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2012 with a mission to empower individuals to become peacemakers, problem solvers, leaders, and entrepreneurs in their communities. Inspired by “Rooftop Pastor” Corey Brooks’ 94-day vigil to draw attention to gun violence on Chicago’s South Side, the organization focuses on ending violence and building stronger neighborhoods. Its programs equip youth, adults, and families with resources, skills, tools, and experiences that foster health, success, and upward mobility. Project H.O.O.D. emphasizes empowerment over enablement and seeks to lead innovation and transformation in the Englewood and Woodlawn communities. Team members join a purpose-driven environment dedicated to community impact and sustainable change.

Role Description The Senior Director of Development is a full-time, on-site role based in Chicago, IL, responsible for leading all fundraising and development activities to support Project H.O.O.D.’s mission and growth. This role oversees the creation and execution of a comprehensive development strategy, including major gifts, corporate and foundation relations, annual giving, special campaigns, and fundraising events. Day-to-day responsibilities include identifying and cultivating prospective donors, maintaining and deepening relationships with current donors, preparing proposals and reports, and ensuring timely stewardship communications. The Senior Director of Development collaborates closely with the Executive Director, board members, and program staff to align fundraising priorities with organizational objectives and to communicate impact effectively. The role also manages development operations, including donor database oversight, reporting, budgeting, and compliance with fundraising best practices and ethical standards.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in fundraising strategy, major gift cultivation, and donor stewardship, preferably in a nonprofit or community-focused organization.
• Proficiency in development operations, including CRM/donor database management, reporting, and tracking fundraising metrics.
• Strong skills in written and verbal communication, including grant writing, proposal development, and presentation to diverse audiences.
• Background in relationship building and stakeholder engagement, with the ability to work effectively with community members, partners, and board leadership.
• Experience managing or contributing to special campaigns, annual giving programs, and fundraising events.
• Solid organizational and project management abilities, with attention to detail and capacity to prioritize multiple initiatives.
• Demonstrated commitment to equity, community empowerment, and serving historically under-resourced neighborhoods.
• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (such as Nonprofit Management, Business, Communications, or Public Administration) or equivalent combination of education and experience; advanced degree is a plus.
• Prior leadership experience supervising staff or volunteers in a development or advancement context is highly beneficial.