Chief Advancement Officer and Executive Director of Foundation

Elgin Community College•Elgin, IL

4d•$116,138 - $154,851

About The Position

The Chief Advancement Officer and Executive Director of the Foundation serves as the senior leader responsible for advancing ECC’s mission through comprehensive institutional advancement strategies. This role provides visionary leadership for fundraising, alumni relations, marketing, and community engagement, while overseeing the ECC Foundation’s operations. This position drives strategic initiatives that strengthen philanthropic support, enhance the college’s reputation, and foster partnerships that expand resources and opportunities for students.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Communications, Marketing, Education or other relevant area of study.
7-10 years of progressive experience in fundraising and institutional advancement leadership within higher education or similar mission-driven organizations.
Proven success in major gift solicitation and capital campaigns, including gifts of $100,000+.
Expertise in strategic planning, board governance, and cross-functional leadership.
Strong understanding of marketing, communications, and alumni engagement strategies.
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to inspire diverse stakeholders.
Ability to manage complex budgets and ensure compliance with Foundation governance and higher education standards.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree (MBA, MPA, Educational Leadership) preferred.
Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) or similar professional fundraising and advancement credentials preferred.

Responsibilities

Strategic Advancement Leadership: Develop and execute a comprehensive advancement strategy encompassing fundraising, alumni relations, marketing, and community engagement aligned with ECC’s mission and strategic plan.
Foundation Oversight and Fundraising: Lead the ECC Foundation’s operations, including endowment growth, scholarship funding, and major gift campaigns. Cultivate and solicit a portfolio of high-capacity donors.
Campus Partnerships: Partner with ECC leadership, trustees, faculty, and staff to align advancement priorities with academic and student success goals.
Board Engagement: Provide strategic guidance and support to the Foundation Board of Directors, enhancing governance and fundraising capacity.
Team Leadership : Manage and mentor a high-performing advancement team, fostering a culture of innovation, accountability and excellence.
Alumni Engagement and Community Partnerships : Develop and implement strategies to strengthen alumni relationships, foster volunteer leadership, and enhance alumni participation in philanthropic initiatives.
Compliance & Governance: Ensure adherence to college policies, accreditation standards, and advancement best practices by maintaining rigorous oversight of fundraising activities, Foundation governance, and responsible financial stewardship.
Other Duties: Perform other job-related duties as assigned which pertain to the job description.