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.