Sr. Philanthropy & Engagement Gift Officer

  • Chicago
  • Institute For The International Education Of Students
Status: Full-time, exempt
Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8.30a.m. - 4.30p.m, 37.5 hours per week, but may include occasional evening and weekend work. This position requires approximately 50% travel based on business needs and position requirements.
Reports to: Executive Director of Advancement
Direct reports: None
Start date: ASAP
Location: Remote or Chicago, IL, USA
About Us:
IES Global is a not-for-profit study abroad and internship provider dedicated to transforming the lives of nearly 10,000 students annually through unparalleled study abroad experiences. From our headquarters in Chicago, we offer 400+ programs in 85 locations worldwide, partnering with 500 colleges and universities to create authentic educational experiences that exceed expectations.
IES Global comprises a collective of brands including IES Abroad, IES Internships, Customized & Faculty-Led Programs, and the Study Abroad Foundation (SAF). We champion meaningful academic and cultural education, integrate diverse perspectives, prioritize student health and safety, and strive to better the world through our Global Good Commitment.
For nearly 75 years, we have been a trusted leader in global education, committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism. We actively recruit underrepresented students and provide millions in scholarships each year, celebrating a diverse student body that reflects the vibrant cultures we engage with. Our commitment extends to our diverse team, fostering an inclusive, welcoming workplace where talents from various backgrounds collaborate and grow.
Join us at IES Abroad and become part of a community dedicated to creating global leaders and life-changing experiences.
Summary of Position
The Senior Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement Officer will be responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting and successfully stewarding qualified prospects and donors with a capacity of contributing gifts of $10,000-$25,000+. The position is a key member of the Advancement and Alumni Engagement team and will help ensure the success of IES Abroad's philanthropic initiatives and goals.
Essential Job Responsibilities & Duties:
  • Develop and manage a portfolio of approximately 100 donors and prospects employing donor-centric communications and engagement strategies.
  • Frequent travel required for in-person meetings to achieve a goal of 100+ in person and virtual individual meetings annually.
  • Work independently and collaborate with Advancement and Alumni Engagement team and across IES Abroad departments to develop funding proposals and stewardship plans which match donor interests with institutional priorities.
  • Report regularly to Executive Director on progress and results of the prospect portfolio
  • Develop and host alumni in-person events and virtual class reunions as a means of engagement and prospect identification.
  • Utilize CRM database to complete and file thorough call reports of contacts in a timely manner.
  • Create a yearly plan for engagement in conjunction with the Executive Director
  • Other duties as assigned or required, including occasional evening and weekend work and travel.
Experience & Qualifications/Skills:
  • 5-7 years of successful fundraising experience including individual gift cultivation and solicitations. Experience with development of planned gift proposals a plus.
  • A commitment to and ability to communicate IES Abroad's mission and values
  • Self-motivated, autonomous work ethic with ability to collaborate within a team.
  • Ability to travel frequently and to put together efficient, productive itineraries within travel budget
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize
  • Proficiency with database software, Zoom, email, calendar software, and Microsoft Office, (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) - experience with Raisers Edge a plus
  • Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to interface professionally and tailor communications according to audience
  • Ability to work occasional weekends and evenings dependent on workload or event support
  • Good judgment and a high level of intercultural competence
  • Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and handle sensitive information and material in a discretionary manner
Education, Licenses and/or Certifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree (Master's Degree preferred) or equivalent work experience
  • Must have a valid U.S. driver's license and ability and willingness to drive as required

How to Apply:
All applicants should submit an application including cover letter, resume, and salary requirements by clicking 'Apply' at the top of this page.
Please visit for more information about working at IES Abroad. If you require an accommodation with the application process, please email us: .
Equal Opportunity Employment:
IES Abroad is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. We strive to treat people with respect; fully utilizing employee's abilities and promoting workforce diversity.
We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and do not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy), age, national origin, citizenship, religion, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, veteran status, and/or any other status protected by applicable laws.