Foundation Relations Officer

Environmental Law & Policy Center•Chicago, IL

16h•$62,000 - $78,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Environmental Law & Policy Center (ELPC) is seeking a dynamic Foundation Relations Officer with excellent writing skills, proven ability to expand an existing grants program, and a passion for environmental protection. ELPC is the Midwest’s leading environmental legal advocacy organization, driving transformational policy changes with national impacts. They combine effective public interest litigation with strategic policy advocacy, sound science, and economic analysis to protect the environment and natural resources in the Midwest region. This role is an opportunity to join a team of talented, mission-driven professionals.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline
4-6 years of development experience with a minimum of 2 years focused on foundation relations and grant writing, ideally in the environmental space.
Demonstrated track record of foundation fundraising successes in achieving major grants.
Exceptional writing skills combined with careful attention to detail
Strong organizational skills with the ability to follow up with current and prospective foundations in a timely manner
Good problem solving and negotiating skills.
Highly creative/innovative with abilities to persuade and influence others
Results oriented with ability to focus on and meet deadlines and goals.
Ability to operate independently as well as part of a regional and diverse team
Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, especially Word

Nice To Haves

Experience and connections within the Midwest environmental philanthropic sector is highly favorable.
An entrepreneurial approach to fundraising with a passion for ELPC’s mission.
Environmental knowledge and experience strongly preferred
Ability to attend a variety of environmental events that may be breakfast or evening events.

Responsibilities

Research, identify and develop new foundation prospects.
Proactively cultivate relationships with foundation staff and funders by representing ELPC at a variety of events.
Produce well-written and compelling letters of inquiry and grant proposals in a timely manner and pitch them to funders to secure new funding.
Work with ELPC’s development team and program staff to prepare reports, other funding requirements, and renewal proposals in a timely manner.
Persuasively follow up on submissions to drive funding success.
Work with development team to successfully achieve overall fundraising goals, especially by increasing the number of secured grants and amount of revenue raised.
Work collaboratively with development team on fundraising events and campaigns throughout the year including the annual gala, year-end giving, and other fundraising efforts as assigned.