Overview

Associated Colleges of Illinois (ACI) is a 70-year-old network of 26 independent liberal arts and sciences colleges and universities, serving more than 70,000 students. Its mission is to support member colleges and universities by advancing independent liberal arts and sciences education and helping underserved students succeed in college, career, and life. ACI achieves this by raising funds that are used to focus on preparing a diverse student body to earn degrees, excel in the workforce and invest in their communities. Students thrive in the supportive, small-class environment and develop the key skills that employers demand: critical thinking, communication, collaboration, problem solving and civic competencies.

ACI seeks an experienced and strategic Executive Director to plan, execute and lead the next phase of ACI’s growth. This position will report to and collaborate closely with the Board of Trustees, playing a critical role in ACI’s programs, capacity building and impact in the state of Illinois. The Executive Director will manage a staff of 5-7 individuals to include the Director of Programs, Director of Foundation Relations, Director of Communications, Director of Events & Scholarship, Staff Accountant, and a Finance Consultant. The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of relevant experience with at least 5 years in a non-profit management role. Experience in Higher Education is preferred.

Graduates of ACI member colleges and universities are encouraged to apply

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ACI is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Compensation Range

$110,000 - $125,000

To apply

To apply, please submit a resume & cover letter to Jami Perry, Evolve Giving Group: jamieperry@evolvegg.com

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Download Job Description

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage all aspects of ACI including planning, program management, human resources, board recruitment and development, and fundraising
Spearhead the creation of the annual business plan, fundraising plan, and strategic plan to direct ACI’s activities and ensure buy-in from key stakeholders
Fundraise and secure gifts of all sizes by identifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding existing and prospective donors; identify opportunities for fundraising in new and creative ways
Design and implement a process to build a substantial endowment that will help support ACI’s mission for years to come
Recruit, hire, and retain ACI staff; work with the team to set expectations and goals within a positive work environment
Liaise between ACI and its stakeholders to include member institutions and the Board of Trustees
Ensure the financial health and sustainability of ACI by facilitating sound financial planning and management systems, including budget preparation and oversight of systems and controls
Determine key performance indicators and metrics for ACI to track performance; implement as appropriate
Build partnerships and effective working relationships necessary to compete in a multi-faceted environment
Protect and promote a culture of transparency, integrity, inclusivity and equity
Serve as the chief public advocate and spokesperson for ACI in order to actively and effectively represent its goals to supporters, generate enthusiasm and attract the widest interest and engagement

Qualifications & Skills

10+ years of relevant experience with at least 5 years in a management role within a non-profit organization
Passion for embracing diverse cultures and backgrounds; appreciation for the ACI mission
Bachelor’s degree required
Strong track record of fundraising and soliciting gifts of $25,000+
Ability to create and manage a budget of $1M+
Demonstrated creativity in respect to programs and fundraising
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Experience working with a variety of stakeholders including Presidents of higher education institutions, board members, volunteers, funders, and association members
Expert problem solving, decision making and conflict resolution skills
Proficiency working with business technology, including the Microsoft Office Suite and CRM tools
Comfortable working occasional nights and weekends with light travel

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Executive Director

Overview

Key Responsibilities

Qualifications & Skills

Key Responsibilities

Qualifications & Skills