Remote Director of Philanthropy

1w1 week ago

Capital Development Services

Chicago, US · Full-time · $130,000 – $180,000

About this role

Bexley Seabury Seminary, a fully remote Episcopal-rooted theological institution, seeks a Director of Philanthropy as its senior advancement leader. This role partners closely with the President on donor strategy, major gifts, and endowment commitments. It welcomes candidates across the US near major airports.

The Director builds and manages the major-donor portfolio while developing a strong Presidential portfolio for cultivation. Travel extensively, independently and with the President, to engage prospects in Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Create systems for sustainable philanthropic growth and guide annual giving with alumni relations.

Report directly to the President in a small, entrepreneurial environment committed to forming Gospel-centered leaders. Understand the Church ecosystem and thrive amid a mission rooted in justice, compassion, and Jesus' teachings. Coordinate with the Dean of Student and Community Engagement on key activities.

At a pivotal moment, translate the new President's vision and relational gifts into structured donor strategies. Ensure the President dedicates over 50% of time to donor-facing work for sustained revenue. Build long-term relationships grounded in trust while resisting distortions of Christianity.

Requirements

Seasoned major-gifts professional combining strategic sophistication with hands-on execution
Energized by Bexley Seabury’s mission to form Gospel-centered leaders rooted in justice and compassion
Brings urgency to strengthen revenue while building long-term donor relationships grounded in trust
Understands the Church ecosystem
Resonates deeply with the Seminary’s counter-narrative to distortions of Christianity
Thrives in a small, entrepreneurial environment

Responsibilities

Serve as the President’s primary philanthropic advisor and strategic partner
Prepare briefings, talking points, call sheets, and follow-up plans for donor meetings
Build and manage the major-donor portfolio including alumni, friends, parishes, dioceses, and foundations
Develop a curated Presidential portfolio using historical giving data
Create individualized cultivation and solicitation strategies for high-capacity prospects
Establish major-gift tracking systems and write grant applications as needed
Build structures, processes, and reporting systems for long-term philanthropic growth
Guide annual giving and alumni relations activities in coordination with the Dean

Benefits

Fully remote role welcoming candidates across the United States near major airports
Direct partnership with the President spending over half his time in donor work
Opportunity to build philanthropic architecture at a pivotal institutional moment