VP, External Affairs & Brand Growth

Chicago African Americans in Philanthropy; Chicago, Northern (IL, KY); Hybrid; USD 163,000 - 181,000; Full time

Job summary

Chicago Foundation for Women seeks a visionary executive to lead External Affairs, reporting to the President & CEO. The VP will drive fundraising, branding, and stakeholder engagement, aligning efforts with a three-year strategic plan and ensuring measurable impact across communities.

Responsibilities include policy development, crisis management, and strong collaboration with the leadership team and Board to advance equity and organizational growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in external affairs, development, or marketing/communications.

Responsibilities

• Advise the President & CEO, leadership team, and Board of Directors on opportunities and reputational risks.
• Oversee the development of policy positions, briefing materials, talking points, and stakeholder communications.
• Collaborate with the President & CEO and Board to cultivate key relationships.
• Lead crisis-management efforts in coordination with the Board, President & CEO, and leadership team.
• Develop and implement an integrated external affairs strategy aligned with the three-year plan.
• Provide strategic leadership and financial oversight of marketing and communications; lead a rebrand.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive annual fundraising plan with goals across events, major gifts, and campaigns.
• Track and report progress on annual fundraising revenue goals.
• Build relationships with community leaders, partners, and stakeholders.

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Job description

Chicago Foundation for Women seeks a visionary executive to lead External Affairs, reporting to the President & CEO. The VP will drive fundraising, branding, and stakeholder engagement, aligning efforts with a three-year strategic plan and ensuring measurable impact across communities.

Responsibilities include policy development, crisis management, and strong collaboration with the leadership team and Board to advance equity and organizational growth.