Senior Director, Corporate and Foundation Relations

Brookfieldzoo; Brookfield (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in wildlife conservation is seeking a Senior Director for Corporate and Foundation Relations. This leadership role involves developing and implementing funding strategies, managing key relationships, and enhancing workplace culture with a focus on diversity and inclusion. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in fundraising and development, strong organizational and interpersonal skills, and a passion for conservation. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on wildlife protection and conservation efforts while working in a dynamic environment. Join a dedicated team committed to making a difference in the natural world.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of senior-level development and fundraising experience required.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field.

Responsibilities

• Lead corporate and foundation funding strategies aligned with organizational priorities.
• Manage relationships with corporate and foundation partners.

Skills

Fundraising

Strategic Thinking

Interpersonal Skills

Organizational Skills

Project Management

Confidentiality

Cultural Proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in relevant field

Master’s Degree in relevant field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Database Management Software

Raiser’s Edge

Job description

Senior Director, Corporate and Foundation Relations

Chicago Zoological Society | Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Rd, Brookfield, Illinois, United States of America Req #147

Thursday, March 13, 2025

Join the PRIDE!

Since our opening in 1934, Brookfield Zoo Chicago has had an international reputation for taking a cutting-edge role in animal care and conservation of the natural world. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is an active partner in wildlife protection programs around the world. We have pioneered the field of conservation psychology and are able to reach many audiences each year. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is known throughout the world as a leader in animal welfare and conservation.

This position contributes to the success of Brookfield Zoo Chicago (“BZC”) by working closely with the Senior Vice President, Development to achieve institutional strategic objectives. Leads the strategy and implementation of corporate, foundation, and government funding.

PRIMARY JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead and develop corporate, foundation, and government funding strategies in alignment with organizational priorities.
• Prioritize key actions for the CEO, SVP, and other senior staff.
• Manage and develop a cadre of well-trained trustees and volunteers for the major gifts program.
• Coordinate efforts with other Development staff to maximize gift potential.
• Manage a portfolio of corporate and foundation relationships.
• Build collaborative relationships with senior staff across the organization.
• Develop and implement actions to improve workplace culture with an emphasis on diversity, inclusion, equity, and accessibility.
• Other related duties as assigned.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in arts, sciences, or other relevant business-related field or eight years’ equivalent combination of training and experience required.
• Minimum seven years of relevant senior-level development, fundraising, and management experience.
• Demonstrated success in comprehensive capital and annual campaign development.
• Excellent organizational skills and proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills and ability to represent the Society to various audiences.
• Ability to maintain the confidentiality of privileged information.
• Strategic thinking and solid planning and organizational skills required.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple projects.
• Computer literate with Microsoft Office products and database management software.
• Strong interest in conservation issues/Society’s mission and vision.
• English fluency at a professional working proficiency.
• Cultural proficiency; experience and/or ability to work with a diverse audience.
• Valid driver’s license required.

DESIRABLE/PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s Degree in arts, sciences, or other relevant business-related field preferred.
• Knowledge of/experience with the Chicagoland area and/or Florida donor communities desirable.
• Experience with Raiser’s Edge and Microsoft Office Suite software a plus.
• Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: This position description summarizes the primary duties and functions of this position but should not be considered a complete listing of every duty the incumbent may perform. This is a visible management position and a key member of the Development leadership team. Incumbent is required to gain an intimate understanding of the organization, its mission, vision, values, and philosophies.

Because Brookfield Zoo Chicago runs at a very fast pace with multiple, rapidly changing priorities, the incumbent must be flexible and adaptable. Some travel may be required to meet established work objectives.

Brookfield Zoo Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer.