Strategic Advancement & Engagement Lead (Hybrid)

Shirley-Ryan-Ability-La; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 71,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work schedule

Job summary

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago seeks an Advancement Planning & Engagement Specialist to support the Chief Advancement Officer. You will drive division-wide projects, support donor engagement, and craft communications to advance relationships.

You will manage CEO/SVP portfolios, maintain donor records, plan events, and prepare action-oriented reports. The role requires a bachelor’s degree and 3–5 years in fundraising, with a hybrid work schedule and opportunities to influence strategy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in nonprofit, fundraising, or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in advancement, fundraising, or donor relations.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the SVP to drive division-wide projects including budget planning, tracking, and forecasting.
• Support trustee, leadership, and volunteer engagement, including prospecting, cultivation, and solicitation strategies.
• Draft communications and materials to maximize outreach impact.
• Provide support for high-level donor engagement and portfolio management.
• Prepare correspondence, meeting summaries, and engagement strategies.
• Support moves management and tracking of donor activity.
• Generate regular reports illustrating progress and opportunities.

Skills

Writing

Editing

Verbal communication

Organizational skills

Confidentiality

Relationship-building

Project management

Problem-solving

Adaptability

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago seeks an Advancement Planning & Engagement Specialist to support the Chief Advancement Officer. You will drive division-wide projects, support donor engagement, and craft communications to advance relationships.

You will manage CEO/SVP portfolios, maintain donor records, plan events, and prepare action-oriented reports. The role requires a bachelor’s degree and 3–5 years in fundraising, with a hybrid work schedule and opportunities to influence strategy.