Development Associate

About the job Development Associate

The Illinois Policy Institute is dedicated to promoting free markets and personal liberty to empower individuals and create a stronger Illinois. We believe in bold ideas, innovative solutions and the power of effective leadership to drive meaningful change.

We are seeking a highly organized and proactive development associate to provide comprehensive support to the CEO and play a key role in advancing our mission. This position offers a unique opportunity to work closely with executive leadership, contributing to high-impact fundraising initiatives, donor engagement and strategic projects that fuel our work.

As a development associate, you will manage the CEOs schedule, handle high-level correspondence, coordinate fundraising activities and assist with special projects - all while ensuring seamless execution of executive tasks in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. You will be a trusted partner in maintaining discretion and confidentiality, helping to strengthen relationships with key stakeholders who support our vision for a freer and more prosperous Illinois.

If you are a detail-oriented problem solver with a passion for advancing meaningful policy change, we invite you to apply to be part of a team making a real difference.

Responsibilities

Fundraising & Donor Engagement

Assist with donor research, event coordination and donor communication.

Meet with donors independently or alongside senior leadership.

Manage a portfolio of donors in collaboration with senior leadership. Strategic Event Planning & Execution

Plan and execute virtual and in-person donor events in alignment with organizational goals.

Manage communications with sponsors, VIPs and key attendees. Leadership & Initiative Support

Collaborate with the CEO and leadership team to drive key strategic initiatives.

Assist in executing special projects that align with organizational priorities.

Provide support to the leadership team in the CEOs absence to ensure continuity. Research & Presentation Development

Conduct research and develop presentations for donors, the board and key stakeholders. Executive Support & Time Management

Conserve the CEOs time by managing correspondence, drafting communications and scheduling meetings.

Organize meetings, prepare agendas and ensure efficient follow-ups. Travel & Administrative Coordination

Arrange travel and manage expense reporting for the CEO.

Oversee administrative tasks, including document management and office organization. Qualifications

Proven experience as an executive assistant or in a similar senior leadership support role.

Strong project management, organizational and time management skills.

Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

Strong research, analytical and problem-solving capabilities.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and Google Workspace.

Familiarity with office management software and other relevant tools.

Ability to work under pressure while maintaining attention to detail and a proactive approach.

High level of discretion and confidentiality in handling sensitive information.

Knowledge of fundraising and development strategies, with experience in donor engagement (preferred).

Background in fundraising, development support and major donor relations (preferred).

Bachelors degree in business, communications, political science or a related field (preferred).

Compensation

Base salary range of $60,000 to $80,000, commensurate with experience. The compensation package includes health (medical and dental plans with employer-paid share), 401(k), flexible spending benefits, and vacation and sick days.

Location

The development associate will work in our Chicago office.