Development Director

Development Director

Hyde Park Day School | Chicago, IL

Hyde Park Day School (HPDS) is seeking a strategic, relationship-driven Development Director to lead and expand a comprehensive fundraising and engagement program that directly advances our mission: preparing students with learning disabilities for successful transitions into mainstream school environments.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key leadership role in a mission-driven, highly respected school community while building meaningful relationships with donors, families, alumni, and institutional partners.

About the Role

The Development Director is responsible for the design and execution of the school's overall development strategy, including annual giving, major gifts, capital campaign leadership, alumni engagement, events, and communications. This role partners closely with the Executive Director, Board of Trustees, and key stakeholders to strengthen philanthropic support and ensure long-term sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy, including the Annual Fund, major gifts, planned giving, corporate sponsorships, and a capital campaign currently in its early stages
• Manage a portfolio of donors and cultivate strong, long-term relationships with individuals, families, alumni, foundations, and corporate partners
• Partner with the Executive Director, Board of Trustees, and campaign consultants to drive capital campaign planning and execution
• Oversee donor engagement and stewardship strategies, ensuring thoughtful, timely, and personalized communication
• Develop and expand alumni engagement initiatives to foster lifelong connection and philanthropic support
• Plan and execute high-impact fundraising and community events, including the annual gala and donor recognition initiatives
• Supervise and mentor development staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team
• Oversee development communications, including newsletters, email campaigns, and digital content, ensuring alignment with the school's mission and voice
• Manage the development budget and monitor performance against established goals

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree or relevant certification preferred
• Minimum of five (5) years of nonprofit development or fundraising experience, including leadership responsibility
• Demonstrated success across multiple fundraising channels (annual giving, major gifts, campaigns, and events)
• Exceptional relationship-building and communication skills
• Strong organizational, strategic planning, and project management abilities
• Proficiency with donor databases/CRMs and fundraising tools
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality

Compensation & Benefits

The anticipated salary range for this position is $95,000 to $145,000 annually. Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to the candidate's experience, qualifications, and demonstrated expertise.

Hyde Park Day School offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; paid time off; retirement plan with employer contributions; disability and life insurance; and additional employee support programs.

Why Hyde Park Day School

At HPDS, you will join a collaborative and mission-driven team dedicated to supporting students with learning disabilities through individualized, strengths-based education. This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while helping shape the future of the school's philanthropic efforts.

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The Leslie Shankman School Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.