Vice President of Advancement

Walder Institute (“WI”) is a destination and guiding force for those seeking to create a more vibrant future for the Orthodox community through the transformational power of Jewish education, locally in Chicago and as a global thought leader of innovative practice. With its 55 employees, Walder Institute offers three dynamic programs advancing education for Chicago’s burgeoning Orthodox Jewish community: Walder Jewish Education, Walder STEAM Education, and Kehillah Fund, with plans to add additional innovative programs to its roster.

Position Summary:

The VP of Advancement serves as the strategist for the Institute’s development work, building out thoughtful ways to garner communal support of Walder Institute’s programs to help ensure their continued growth and success. This role encompasses day-to-day management, strategic leadership, fundraising, and community engagement. The VP of Advancement works closely with the President, Advisory Board of Directors, WI Leadership Team, and community stakeholders to fulfill Walder Institute’s mission and ensure its long-term impact.​

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic & Organizational Leadership

• Develop short-term and long-term strategic plan to create and sustain a robust development program.
• Elevate the profile of Walder Institute and its programs within the community.
• Collaborate with the Board to develop and implement strategic plans and priorities.
• Monitor organizational performance and adjust strategies as needed to meet evolving community needs.
• Maintain ongoing communication with school leadership to align support and impact.​

Fundraising & External Relations

• Lead all fundraising efforts, including annual campaigns, major gifts, planned giving, grants, and special events.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with current and prospective donors.
• Cultivate partnerships with foundations, businesses, and community organizations.
• Serve as the primary public representative of Walder Institute at events, meetings, and in the broader community.​

Operations & Team Management

• With a specific focus on Kehillah Fund as a fundraising organization, oversee donor engagement, strategy, retention and growth
• Support the Kehillah Fund team and ensure effective execution of day-to-day strategies and initiatives.
• Utilize Kehillah Fund’s new donor management system to extract data and provide analysis that will help inform donor engagement activities

Qualifications:

• Minimum 10 years of nonprofit leadership experience, with a strong background in development and organizational management.
• Proven success in fundraising, especially in building and managing donor relationships.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and mobilize stakeholders.
• Visionary leadership style with the ability to translate ideas into action.
• Familiarity with and commitment to the values of Jewish day school education and the Chicagoland Orthodox community.​

Compensation:

Walder Institute offers a competitive salary and outstanding benefits package, including 25% off tuition at local Orthodox day schools, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

To Apply:

If you are interested in learning more about the position, please reach out to: search@scottgoldbergconsulting.com.