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 CEO’s 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 and 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 CEO’s 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 CEO’s time by managing correspondence, drafting communications and scheduling meetings.
- Organize meetings, prepare agendas and ensure efficient follow-ups.
- Meeting Preparation & Follow-Up
- Coordinate logistics, prepare materials and create agendas for meetings.
- Attend meetings, take minutes and track action items.
- 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).
- Bachelor’s 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.
To Apply
- Résumé
- Cover letter detailing:
- Your interest in this position
- Why the mission of the Illinois Policy Institute resonates with you
- Your salary requirements
- Writing sample