For more than 107 years, Anixter Center has enhanced lives, advanced inclusion, and strengthened communities across Chicagoland. A recognized leader in delivering comprehensive, person-centered services, Anixter Center supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health needs, and members of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing communities.

In FY 2025, Anixter Center operated with a $23.3 million budget and a dedicated workforce of approximately 200 employees, collectively serving more than 7,000 individuals and families throughout the Chicagoland area.

Why Anixter Center

At Anixter Center, philanthropy is more than fundraising — it is a powerful expression of our commitment to equity, dignity, and opportunity for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health needs. For more than a century, Anixter Center has been a trusted partner in the community, delivering innovative, person-centered services that create meaningful outcomes and lasting impact.

This is a rare opportunity to join a mission-driven organization at a pivotal moment of growth and transformation, where visionary leadership, authentic relationships, and bold ideas are welcomed - and where philanthropy plays a critical role in shaping a more inclusive and equitable future.

Position Summary

The Vice President of Philanthropy is a bold, mission-driven executive leader who shapes and advances Anixter Center’s philanthropic vision to fuel lasting impact for the individuals and communities we serve. This role is responsible for designing and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy while building the systems, structure, and culture of philanthropy that support long-term growth, innovation, and sustainability.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Vice President of Philanthropy reports directly to the President & CEO and serves as a trusted strategic partner in advancing Anixter Center’s financial strength, organizational resilience, and future-focused growth. This leader works collaboratively with the Board of Directors, Emeritus Board, Ambassador Board, CHS Advisory Council, and senior leadership to inspire investment, deepen relationships, and champion philanthropic excellence across the organization.

The Vice President of Philanthropy leads and mentors a high-performing philanthropy team, provides direct supervision to the Director of Philanthropy, oversees foundation and grant-seeking strategies, and personally manages a portfolio of transformational major gift relationships. The ideal candidate is a seasoned executive fundraiser and strategic thought partner with a passion for mission-aligned impact, a proven ability to inspire donors and stakeholders, and a track record of building sustainable revenue, strong teams, and enduring philanthropic partnerships.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES: (Individual duties, assignments, and responsibilities required of the position.)

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy to achieve annual and long-term revenue goals.
• Align development priorities with Anixter Center’s mission, vision, and strategic plan by creating integrated fundraising strategies that reflect the unique needs of each service line while advancing a cohesive philanthropic narrative that communicates the full breadth and impact of the organization's work.
• Lead capital campaign planning, planned giving, major gifts procurement and major fundraising initiatives in collaboration with the CEO and Board.
• Supervise and support the Director of Philanthropy, the Associate Director of Philanthropy, and the Grants Manager.
• Provide strategic guidance, mentorship, and performance management to the staff, while encouraging and supporting participation in professional development and continuing education opportunities.
• Foster a collaborative, mission-driven, and high-performance culture within the department.
• Manage a personal portfolio of 50-75 major donors and prospects, focusing on gifts of $10,000+.
• Cultivate and steward relationships with high-net-worth individuals, corporate partners, and key institutional funders.
• Provide strategic leadership and partnership to the Director of Philanthropy on appeals, campaigns, and stewardship strategies, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities, donor experience best practices, and revenue goals.
• Oversee the organization’s grant writing, reporting, and compliance processes.
• Maintain strong relationships with foundation partners and ensure timely submission of proposals and reports.
• Partner with the Board of Directors to leverage their networks and deepen donor engagement. Acts as Staff Liaison with the Board’s Resource and Development Committee.
• Develop and manage the Ambassador Board, a new initiative supporting Anixter’s mission by expanding awareness among emerging community leaders and creating opportunities for peer-to-peer fundraising, social engagement, and professional development.
• Oversee the planning and execution of all special events, including the annual gala (The Anixter Experience), Golf Fundraiser, and other donor engagement opportunities.
• Ensure annual giving campaigns and fundraising appeals are effectively executed and aligned with strategic objectives.
• Develop and manage the department budget, policies and procedures, workflows and plans.
• Monitor fundraising revenue and expenses to ensure financial sustainability and transparency.
• Work in partnership with the marketing team to ensure consistent, compelling messaging and brand alignment across all donor communications.
• Contribute to the creation of promotional and campaign materials.
• Champion and role model our organizational values.
• Committed to serving underserved and disability communities and advancing diversity, equity and inclusion through philanthropy.

REQUIREMENTS (Competencies, skills, abilities, experience, education necessary.)

• Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive experience in nonprofit human services development, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record in securing major gifts, managing fundraising teams, and executing multi-channel fundraising strategies.
• Strong knowledge of fundraising best practices, including annual giving, planned giving, capital campaigns, grants, and events.
• Experience working with boards of directors and engaging high-level volunteers.
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills with a demonstrated ability to mentor staff, foster professional growth, and build high-performing, collaborative teams.
• Strategic, analytical, and results-driven mindset.
• Proficiency in donor databases (e.g., Little Green Light) and fundraising software; knowledge of Constant Contact a plus.
• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s Degree in nonprofit management, business, or a related field preferred.
• Commitment to serving underserved and disability communities and advancing equity through philanthropy.
• Ability to promote and adhere to company values.
• A commitment to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment.