Development Manager

Position Title: Development Manager

Reports To: Director of Development

Location: Temple Sholom, Chicago

Position Summary

The Development Manager will play a critical role in managing the logistics and operations of our capital campaign and annual development efforts at all stages of the fundraising cycle: identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. This individual will work closely with the Director of Development, clergy, staff, lay leaders, and campaign volunteers to ensure the success of fundraising initiatives that will sustain and grow our synagogue for generations to come.

Philanthropy is essential to our continued growth. A strong development strategy enables us to expand programs, deepen engagement, and secure our future. The Development Manager plays a critical role in fostering a culture of giving, building relationships, and ensuring that our values translate into lasting impact.

About Temple Sholom

For over 150 years, Temple Sholom has lived its mission to embrace, inspire, and matter. As a leading Reform congregation, we offer uplifting worship, transformative learning, and meaningful cultural experiences that strengthen Jewish life. We are also a leading center for Social Justice in Chicago, advocating for the most vulnerable in our midst and hosting a weekly hot meal program for the neediest members of our community.

Our Community

Temple Sholom is a vibrant, inclusive community that welcomes people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. Rooted in Torah and Jewish values, we foster meaningful connections, spiritual growth, and a commitment to tikkun olam (repairing the world). As a hub for Jewish learning and action, we bring together thought leaders, scholars, and those dedicated to making a difference.

Key Responsibilities:

Campaign Management & Operations

• Support the planning and execution of the synagogue’s capital campaign in collaboration with the Director of Development.
• Maintain and track campaign progress, donor outreach, and gift commitments using donor database.
• Assist in the creation of campaign materials, presentations, proposals, and reports.
• Coordinate campaign-related events, donor meetings, and recognition activities.
• Ensure timely follow-up on pledges, gift acknowledgments, and campaign communications.
• Monitor campaign benchmarks and generate regular progress reports for leadership and committees.

Donor Solicitation

• Assist in the development and implementation of the synagogue’s Annual Fund campaign.
• Manage the synagogue’s sponsorship programs, identifying opportunities for growth.
• Solicit annual gifts up to $1,800 through in person meetings, phone/Zoom conversations, and email/social media communication.
• Assist in the development of new philanthropic pathways including planned giving program, vendor campaign, matching programs, giving circles, etc.

Donor Stewardship & Engagement

• Develop and implement stewardship strategies to strengthen relationships with current and prospective donors.
• Coordinate personalized donor engagement, including recognition opportunities and impact reports.
• Assist in organizing parlor meetings, donor appreciation events, and committee meetings.
• Work with leadership to identify and cultivate new donors and synagogue supporters.
• Help imbue a culture of philanthropy throughout the community through educational initiatives.

Administrative & Communications Support

• Serve as the main point of contact for development and campaign-related inquiries and logistics.
• Draft and manage donor correspondence, including thank-you letters, invitations, and campaign updates.
• Work with the communications team to create compelling donor messaging and campaign updates via email, social media, and the synagogue website.
• Assist in grant research, data collection, and application production.
• Serve as the point person for development related data collection and analysis, ensuring the ability to make data driven decisions.

Qualifications:

Experience: 5+ years of relevant experience in project management, philanthropy, campaign coordination, sales, etc.

Skills:

• Strong organizational and project management skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proficiency in CRM systems (Raiser’s Edge, Salesforce, Little Green Light, or similar development specific platforms).
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, lay leaders, and volunteers.
• Data management and analysis skills, including handling sensitive and confidential donor data with discretion.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Adaptive approach to problem solving.
• Willingness to solicit donors directly.
• Ability to manage event logistics, vendor relationships, and budgets.
• Knowledge of Jewish traditions is a plus.

Compensation & Benefits:

The salary range for this position is $75,000 - 85,000 based on experience.

Benefits package

• Affordable health, dental, and vision coverage with family option
• Short-term disability, long-term disability, and life insurance
• Vacation policy including 20 days of PTO, national holidays, and select Jewish holidays each year
• Generous 401K retirement contribution match after one year of employment
• Parental leave policy
• Opportunities for professional development
• Includes Temple Sholom Membership and discounts for Gan Shalom Early Childhood Education Program, and Religious School Program

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume, a cover letter detailing your interest in the role and relevant experience, and three references (one professional, one personal, and one of your choice) to opportunities@sholomchicago.org. Applications will be collected until April 6^th at which point the synagogue will commence interviews. Applications will continue to be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.