JOB TITLE:  Development & Marketing Manager

EMPLOYEE TYPE: Exempt 

REPORTS TO: Chief Development Officer 

LOCATION: Chicago, IL

PAY: $55,000 - $65,000

JOB OVERVIEW: The Development & Marketing Manager will play a key role in supporting the organization’s development and marketing activities. This position will help drive fundraising initiatives, with a focus on grant writing, while also supporting network-wide recruitment and digital marketing strategies. The ideal candidate is a proactive, organized, and creative individual with a passion for nonprofit work and strong communication skills.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Development & Fundraising Support

• Write high-quality, persuasive grant proposals, LOIs, and reports tailored to institutional funders.
• Conduct research on potential donors, grants, and partnerships, providing insights that inform development strategy.
• Assist in the implementation of annual fundraising campaigns, including appeal letters, donor outreach, and giving days.
• Manage and update the donor database, ensuring accurate records and timely acknowledgments.
• Monitor fundraising progress by tracking metrics such as donation frequency, donor retention, and social media engagement, sharing findings with the team to inform future efforts.

Marketing and Communications

• Develop and implement an annual marketing plan that supports fundraising, student recruitment, and organizational awareness.
• Create compelling content across platforms — website, email, print, and social media — that reflects the mission and impact of CICS.
• Design branded collateral including newsletters, one-pagers and fundraising materials.
• Collaborate with campus teams to promote events, campaigns, and student stories.
• Monitor performance metrics and adapt communications strategies based on engagement data.
• Ensure consistent voice, branding, and visual identity across all CICS platforms. 

REQUIREMENTS

• 3 - 5 years experience in nonprofit development, grant writing, communications or marketing. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with an ability to craft compelling narratives.
• Proficiency in Google Suite or Microsoft Office Suite.
• Proficiency in digital ads (e.g., Google Ads, Facebook) and website management (e.g., WordPress). 
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency with marketing tools such as Mailchimp, Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar platforms.
• Creative problem-solver with a passion for social impact and community engagement.

BENEFITS AT CICS

Chicago International Charter School (CICS) offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees. Our benefits include:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance – multiple plan options with employer contributions
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) – for healthcare and dependent care expenses
• Retirement Savings Plan – including 403(b) with employer match
• Paid Time Off (PTO) – generous leave policies, including vacation, sick time, and paid holidays
• Parental Leave – paid leave for new parents
• Professional Development – ongoing opportunities for growth and training
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential counseling and support services
• Commuter Benefits – pre-tax transit and parking options

TRAVEL

This position is based out of Chicago International Charter School’s office location in the heart of downtown Chicago. Employees are expected to be in person at the CICS offices at least 3 days a week and may work remotely on other days. Local travel to various campuses and community organizations is required.

Statement of Non Discrimination 

CICS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, making all employment decisions, including recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status or any other characteristic or classification protected by law.