Director of Leadership Annual Giving

The Director of Leadership Annual Giving (LAG) is responsible for leading the strategic growth and performance of the Greater Chicago Food Depository’s Leadership Annual Giving program, which engages donors contributing $1,000 to $24,999. This role provides vision, direction, and oversight to ensure a strong pipeline of donors, increased retention and upgrade rates, and a cohesive donor experience across channels. The Director manages a portfolio of high‑capacity LAG donors and prospects while supervising frontline staff and driving strategy across the program. Because LAG donors also receive Direct Response communications, this role plays a critical leadership function in supporting the development of integrated, multi‑channel engagement strategies with the Director of Direct Response to maximize donor participation and long‑term value. The Director of LAG partners closely with the Senior Director of Individual Giving and collaborates across development teams to align donor strategies, strengthen the pipeline to Major Gifts, and advance organizational fundraising priorities. Primary Responsibilities And Essential Functions Program Leadership & Strategy Lead the overall vision, strategy, and performance of the LAG program. Establish and execute annual revenue goals, growth strategies, and key performance metrics for LAG portfolios. Collaborate with the Director of Direct Response to develop and implement integrated engagement strategies that align LAG and Direct Response efforts, ensuring a seamless donor experience. Analyze program performance, donor behavior, and portfolio trends to inform strategic decisions and optimize results. Frontline Fundraising & Portfolio Management Manage a portfolio of high‑value LAG donors and prospects, focusing on qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. Design and implement personalized engagement strategies to deepen relationships and increase giving. Maintain a strong understanding of organizational priorities to align donor interests with funding opportunities. Team Leadership & Development Supervise and mentor two Relationship Managers, providing guidance on portfolio management, donor strategy, and performance. Foster a collaborative, results‑oriented team culture focused on accountability, professional growth, and donor‑centered practices. Support staff in developing and executing moves‑management strategies and achieving individual and team goals. Pipeline & Cross‑Team Collaboration Oversee pipeline development and portfolio strategy across the LAG program. Partner with Strategic Giving colleagues to identify and transition qualified donors ($25,000+) into appropriate giving channels. Collaborate with Direct Response, Donor Engagement, and other development teams to align outreach strategies and ensure consistent messaging. Data, Systems & Reporting Ensure accurate and timely documentation of donor engagement in the database, including contact reports, strategy notes, and prospect updates. Utilize data and reporting tools to monitor progress, forecast revenue, and guide decision‑making. Continuously evaluate and refine portfolio assignments and moves‑management processes. Other Perform other duties as assigned in support of the development team and organizational priorities.