Manager of Development and Communications at University of Chicago Hillel

About this role

Manager of Development and Communications

University of Chicago Hillel

Role Overview

The Manager of Development and Communications is responsible for managing and executing University of Chicago Hillel’s fundraising operations, playing a central role in sustaining the financial health of the organization. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Manager of Development and Communications assists in the day-to-day implementation of University of Chicago Hillel’s development strategies — managing annual campaign contributions, coordinating events, pursuing grants, and telling Hillel’s story to key constituencies.

Along with the Executive Director, the Manager will shape the narrative of Jewish campus life by designing and executing a comprehensive communication strategy that amplifies our mission, drives student engagement, and inspires donor support. We are seeking a relationship and data driven strategic storyteller to elevate our voice, celebrate our students' journeys, and engage our broader community of students, alumni, parents, and stakeholders.

This is an ideal role for a professional who is ready to grow within a dynamic, mission-driven organization.

What You’ll Do

Donor Relations & Portfolio Management

• Maintain the annual campaign and donor communications calendar.

• Cultivate and steward a portfolio of current and prospective donors.

• Support outreach to nurture strong relationships with alumni and parents.

• Conduct prospect research and coordinate prospect meetings for the Executive Director.

Annual Campaign & Fundraising Operations

• Draft and prepare multi-channel donor correspondence and manage direct appeals.

• Administer the development database, data entry, and gift processing.

• Manage donor stewardship, including timely and accurate gift acknowledgements.

• Prepare internal fundraising reports and donor reports.

Grants & External Funding

• Manage large operating support grants by providing foundations with timely reporting, communications, metrics, etc.

• Identify foundations and other grant opportunities and apply for financial support.

• Write and produce donor materials, including briefings, proposals, and reports.

Digital Storytelling & Content Creation

• Craft and implement engaging social media strategies including visually compelling content for Instagram, TikTok, and other student-facing platforms

• Write copy for email marketing and design newsletters for students, parents, and alumni, and targeted fundraising appeals.

• Maintain and update the Hillel website.

• Use graphic design skills to create digital and print assets (flyers, banners, event graphics) using Canva, Adobe Suite, or similar tools.

• Collect student photos, stories, and testimonials to illustrate Hillel’s impact.

Brand Strategy & Public Relations

• Ensure brand consistency in all campus marketing, merchandise, and external communications.

• Draft press releases and build relationships with campus newspapers and local media.

• Collaborate with leadership on swift, thoughtful communication regarding campus climate or relevant student issues.

Data & Analytics

• Monitor digital metrics (open rates, social engagement, web traffic) to refine communication strategies.

• Ensure donor communications align with database segments.

Organizational Leadership

• Participate in local and national networking and professional development. opportunities.

• Perform other operational and administrative responsibilities as assigned.

What You Need to Succeed

• Bachelor’s degree or higher

• 2-5 years of development or fundraising experience

• 2-5 years of communication, marketing, social media, or branding experience

• Superior written and verbal communication skills, effective at conveying Hillel’s vision and story to a variety of stakeholders

• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects accurately and on time

• A serious work ethic, sense of humor, and willingness to take risks and learn from unexpected situations

• Ability to quickly and genuinely build connections

• Requires discretion and independent judgement in performing all aspects of the position

Preferred

• Proficiency in Google Suite

• Prior use and knowledge of Little Green Light or other CRM platforms

• Experience using email marketing platforms (Mailchimp, Constant Contact, etc.)

• Advanced understanding of social media platforms and tools (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, etc.)

• Graphic and web design skills, including use of Canva

What You’ll Receive

• Competitive salary in the nonprofit marketplace. The salary range for this role is $60,000-$70,000.

• Time off: up to 22 days of paid time off (starting with 15), up to 11 sick days (starting with 7), 8 paid federal holidays, up to 13 paid Jewish holidays, and 6 weeks paid parental leave

• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Prepare for your future: 401(k) plan and a 403(b) plan

• Additional health and wellness benefits, financial benefits, professional training, tuition reimbursement, and much more

• Great professional development, mentoring, and skill-building opportunities as part of the global Hillel movement

• Reduced summer hours to accommodate for the fast pace of the academic year

About University of Chicago Hillel

University of Chicago Hillel is the center of Jewish life for one of the most intellectually rigorous and diverse campuses in the world. Serving undergraduate and graduate students from a wide range of Jewish backgrounds, UChicago Hillel fosters a pluralistic, inclusive, and vibrant community rooted in Jewish learning, tradition, and leadership. Through dynamic programming, spiritual exploration, and student-driven initiatives, Hillel empowers students to build meaningful Jewish identities and contribute to a thriving campus culture. Located in the heart of Hyde Park, UChicago Hillel is a vital part of the university's ecosystem and is a place where stu

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