Naperville Community Television (NCTV17) is seeking a relationship-driven, entrepreneurial fundraising professional to serve as our next Director of Advancement. This is an opportunity to shape a growing culture of philanthropy at one of the most trusted organizations in the community. As Naperville's only nonprofit, community-centered news source, NCTV17 provides free and accessible local journalism that keeps residents informed, connected, and engaged. The Director of Advancement will help build the next chapter of NCTV17 by expanding philanthropic support, strengthening community partnerships, and helping ensure trusted local journalism remains free and accessible for future generations. As the station approaches its 40th anniversary in 2027, NCTV17 enters a pivotal period of growth, visibility, and community engagement. The ideal candidate understands that local journalism is more than media — it is community infrastructure — and can communicate the impact of trusted local news in ways that inspire support. How you'll make an impact Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the Director of Advancement is responsible for leading NCTV17's fundraising efforts through major gifts, annual giving, grants, corporate partnerships, and special events in order to strengthen the organization's long-term financial sustainability. This is a hands-on role within a small nonprofit where success requires both strategic thinking and day-to-day execution. The successful candidate won't inherit a large advancement department—they'll help build one. Success will be measured not only by revenue growth, but by the strength of the donor relationships, fundraising systems, and culture of philanthropy they help create across the organization. Advancement Strategy & Major Gifts Partner with the Executive Director and Board to develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy that grows philanthropic support and strengthens long-term financial sustainability. Secure and steward annual leadership gifts of $1,000+ through NCTV17's Director's Circle program, building a pipeline for future major gifts. Annual Giving & Monthly Giving Plan and execute an annual giving calendar focused on consistent donor communication and stewardship. Grow the Channel Champions monthly giving program to build sustainable revenue. Partner with Marketing to amplify NCTV17's case for support in all communications. Grants & Corporate Giving Grow the grant portfolio through research, proposal development, submission, reporting, and tracking of grant requirements and deadlines. Cultivate and expand relationships with corporate partners, identifying opportunities for sponsorship, philanthropy, and long-term community investment. Events & Community Engagement Partner with the program team to produce and scale NCTV17's annual fundraiser, driving sponsorship growth, ticket sales, and donor engagement/support. Capitalize on NCTV17's 40th anniversary in 2027 as a major opportunity for fundraising and community engagement. Represent NCTV17 within the community to deepen ties with donors, sponsors, and community leaders. Fundraising Operations Supervise the Administrative Support Specialist in managing the Donor CRM using best practices for data entry, reporting, and standard operating procedures. Utilize fundraising analytics and performance metrics to assess effectiveness and inform strategy.

The ideal candidate brings:

Drive & Accountability :

A self-motivated, results-oriented professional who is organized, detail-oriented, and hard-working.

Strategic Execution :

A creative collaborator comfortable balancing high-level strategy with day-to-day execution.

Builder's Mindset:

Motivated by the opportunity to build something meaningful, strengthen an advancement program, and help grow an organization making a measurable impact in the community.

Qualifications Education:

Bachelor's degree required.

Experience:

Minimum of 5-7 years of nonprofit fundraising experience with demonstrated success cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding individual donors and growing philanthropic revenue.

Fundraising Knowledge:

Deep knowledge of industry best practices and a strategic ability to translate fundraising plans into measurable outcomes.

Interpersonal Skills:

Exceptional written, oral, and relationship-building skills, with a demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with board members, staff, donors, sponsors, and diverse community leaders.

Technical Skills:

Experience working with donor CRM systems (DonorPerfect preferred), Google Workspace, and project management tools.

Detail-Oriented:

Strong organizational and project management skills with exceptional attention to detail.

Flexibility:

Available to work occasional evenings and community events as needed.

Location:

Full-time, in-person position based in Naperville, Illinois with flexibility for some remote work. Apply To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to: work@nctv17.org. Please include "Director of Advancement" in the subject line.

Pay:

From $75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person