Regional VP, Development — Major Gifts & Growth (Midwest, Hybrid)

cityyear; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

City Year is seeking a VP of Development for the Midwest to lead, grow, and sustain philanthropic partnerships across the region. The role focuses on major gifts, new donor acquisition, and a strategic growth plan to expand regional giving and visibility.

The hybrid Chicago-based position works with national and local teams to drive multi-year revenue growth, deepen partnerships, and elevate City Year’s impact in schools and communities throughout the Midwest.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum 8 years in fundraising, business development, nonprofit leadership, or related advancement roles.
• Proven success securing major gifts at the $100K+ level and managing donor portfolios.
• Experience identifying and engaging new donors and growing a top-of-funnel pipeline.
• Strong communication, strategy, relationship, and project management skills.
• Familiarity with philanthropic networks in the region; regional relationships preferred.
• Ability to travel across the Midwest and larger region, and to national convenings (~60%).

Responsibilities

• Lead strategist and relationship manager for a portfolio of donors and partners.
• Develop and execute a fundraising plan focused on long-term growth and major gifts.
• Identify prospective supporters and build a robust top-of-funnel pipeline.
• Design intimate cultivation experiences and thought leadership events.
• Collaborate with national teams to position the Midwest as a priority region.

Skills

Major gifts

Donor acquisition

Fundraising strategy

CRM tools (Salesforce)

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Tools

Salesforce

Job description

City Year is seeking a VP of Development for the Midwest to lead, grow, and sustain philanthropic partnerships across the region. The role focuses on major gifts, new donor acquisition, and a strategic growth plan to expand regional giving and visibility.

The hybrid Chicago-based position works with national and local teams to drive multi-year revenue growth, deepen partnerships, and elevate City Year’s impact in schools and communities throughout the Midwest.