We are an independent, Montessori school in Chicago serving students and their families, starting at a parent-infant class and up to 8th grade. We are a community of shared values working to fulfill a meaningful mission. NNM faculty, staff and parents strive for an equitable and inclusive school culture through intentional, reflective practice. We work together to challenge all students to think for themselves, pursue their ideas and become real learners for the real world. 

Learn more about us on our website: www.nnms.org

We are accepting applications for an Advancement Director to join the NNM team. This is a great opportunity for someone who loves to embrace (and be embraced by) a community and establish meaningful relationships with its people. Communications, marketing and fundraising activities are the main functions - supporting the larger NNM mission. This position reports to the Head of School and serves as a key member of the leadership team. The ideal candidate will have nonprofit fundraising experience plus experience leading or informing an organization's external communication strategies and work. 

This position is full-time, with a year round schedule (school year + summer). While hours may adjust based on events, meetings and community need, the typical schedule is roughly Monday to Friday 8am to 4pm.

Main responsibilities include, though not limited to:

• Develop and nurture the sense of community support and engagement in the school’s communication, marketing and fundraising efforts. 

• Take a leadership role with community relations that aligns with strategic priorities; incorporate effective marketing and communication support and activities

• Develop, manage, and execute strategies to achieve fundraising goals, emphasizing community participation and where appropriate, major gift support to the school.

• Manage and provide feedback to Advancement team members and ensure their work fulfills the needs of the department and school. Support professional development activities and plans for the team as a whole and individually for members

• With the Advancement team and parent volunteers, manage fundraising and community events ranging from small gatherings to major annual events

• Attend Board and Committee meetings; assume responsibility all development reports to the Board in coordination with the committee chair

• Manage communication and marketing activities for the NNM community through various publications and channels

• Select and manage vendors as necessary to support annual work of the advancement team and activities 

Education: Bachelor’s Degree required

Years of Experience:  5+ years experience in a community relations focused role. Previous fundraising and supervisory experience required. Prior school experience a plus.

Specific Skills

• Experience and comfort connecting with community members and creating relationships connected to an organization's mission, projects and more

• Demonstrated commitment to cultural competency, and developing skills to support a diverse school community

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; highly organized

• Proven ability to inspire and secure all levels of donations and gifts 

• Project management expertise; ability to manage a budget and expenses, prioritize multiple requests and meet deadlines

• Demonstrated ability to work with and maintain confidential information

• High level of comfort working with business technology including Google Suite and Raiser’s Edge

• Able to occasionally work evenings, weekends or irregular hours for school events 

This is a full-time position with an annual base salary in the range of $90,000 - $120,000 with a comprehensive benefits package available. 

In order to be considered for this position, a resume with a message or cover letter must be submitted.