Advisor - Philanthropic (Chicago, IL)

About the role

At ALSAC you do more than make a living; you make a difference. We value diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and a desire to make an impact. As one of the world’s most iconic and respected nonprofits, we develop and celebrate our employees while working to help St. Jude cure childhood cancer. Bring your whole, authentic self and become part of our shared mission: Finding cures. Saving children.®

Responsibilities

• Donor Strategy & Portfolio Management
  • Manage a portfolio of 500–1000 planned giving donors and prospects, including interim support for staff vacancies.
  • Develop personalized engagement and fundraising strategies to align with donor values and philanthropic goals.
  • Conduct in-person donor cultivation, including visits, events, and strategic outreach.
  • Plan and host at least two Donor Appreciation Luncheons annually.
• Planned Giving & Gift Development
  • Identify and qualify new donors to grow the planned giving and outright gift pipeline.
  • Promote giving vehicles such as bequests, charitable gift annuities, and charitable trusts.
  • Collaborate with estate attorneys and financial advisors to fulfill donor intentions.
  • Confirm new members of the Danny Thomas – St. Jude Society through timely and strategic follow-up.
• Collaboration & Leadership
  • Serve as the planned giving lead within your assigned area.
  • Partner with internal teams to facilitate gifts and enhance high-value volunteer opportunities.
  • Represent ALSAC/St. Jude at donor events, community engagements, and national conferences.
  • Identify and lead initiatives that support ALSAC’s strategic fundraising goals.
• Communication & Mission Alignment
  • Communicate clearly and persuasively with donors and internal stakeholders.
  • Stay informed on industry trends, tax considerations, and St. Jude’s mission and programs.
  • Maintain cultural competency to engage donors of all backgrounds meaningfully.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in fundraising, planned giving, or major gifts.
• Bachelor’s degree is preferred.
• Demonstrated success in donor cultivation and relationship management.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to travel 50–70% of the time, including evenings and weekends; additional travel for conferences (10–25%).
• Experience with bequest and major gift fundraising.
• Strategic thinker and collaborative team player.
• Familiarity with planned giving tools and CRM systems.
• A valid driver’s license is required for this role.

Benefits

The following benefits apply to full-time roles only.

• Core Medical Coverage: low-cost, low-deductible medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• 401K Retirement Plan with 7% employer contribution.
• Exceptional Paid Time Off.
• Maternity/Paternity Leave.
• Infertility Treatment Program.
• Adoption Assistance.
• Education Assistance.
• Enterprise Learning and Development.