Manager, Philanthropic Partnerships

Responsibilities

• Partner with the Associate Chief Advancement Officer, the Executive Director, Philanthropic Partnerships, and Advancement colleagues to align donor interests with the strategic priorities and financial objectives of Shirley Ryan AbilityLab.
• Maintain regular communication with physicians, researchers, Allied Health Professionals and Administrative Leaders on donor‑related strategies and opportunities.
• Directly solicit or facilitate solicitation of gifts or pledges of $100,000 – $1 million, leading to commitments totaling $1 million – $3 million annually.
• Oversee and participate in effective stewardship plans for existing and future donors.
• Work within a metrics‑based environment, tracking and supporting progress on Key Performance Indicators.
• Collaborate with Advancement Operations, Donor Relations, and Marketing and Communications in development of donor proposals and stewardship plans.
• Track and manage data and information in a timely manner, utilizing the organization’s CRM tool (Raiser’s Edge) and other systems.
• Apply best practices in philanthropy, including prospect and portfolio management, planned giving, grateful patient philanthropy, corporate and foundation relations.
• Integrate innovative approaches and continuous improvement, including integration of AI into fundraising models.
• Prepare correspondence, stewardship notes, meeting summaries, and engagement strategies.
• Support moves management, ensuring prospects are thoughtfully advanced through the engagement pipeline.
• Engage donors and prospects through high‑touch activities, including planning and executing events, visits, and special initiatives designed to deepen relationships.

Reporting Relationships

Reports directly to the Associate Chief Advancement Officer and will report to the Executive Director, Philanthropic Partnerships in the future.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• 5+ years of direct fundraising experience with major gifts and/or relationship management experience.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise discretion, maintain confidentiality, and build trust with stakeholders at all levels.
• Proven resourcefulness, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem‑solving.
• Demonstrated commitment to mission‑driven organizations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in an academic medical center or research hospital setting.
• Familiarity with translational research, neuroscience, rehabilitation medicine, or healthcare innovation.

Working Conditions

Normal office environment with little or no exposure to dust or extreme temperature. Position is hybrid, with required in‑person duties 2–3 days per week.