Institutional Giving Manager

Department: Development
Reports To: Senior Director of Development
Status: Full-Time, Exempt
Location: Chicago, IL (mix of in-office and hybrid)

About Lookingglass Theatre Company

Lookingglass Theatre Company is a nationally recognized ensemble-based theatre rooted in innovation, collaboration, and community engagement. Located in the historic Water Tower Water Works building in downtown Chicago, Lookingglass is committed to producing transformative theatrical experiences and fostering a culture of equity, access, and artistic excellence.

Position Summary

The Institutional Giving Manager plays a critical role in securing and stewarding foundation, corporate, and government support for Lookingglass Theatre’s productions, education programs, and community initiatives. This position is responsible for managing the full lifecycle of institutional fundraising—from prospect research and proposal writing to reporting and relationship management.

Key Responsibilities

Grant Writing & Reporting
Write compelling grant proposals, letters of inquiry, and reports tailored to funder priorities.
Maintain a calendar of deadlines and ensure timely submission of all materials.
Funder Stewardship
Cultivate and maintain relationships with program officers and institutional donors.
Coordinate site visits, funder events, and recognition opportunities.
Prospect Research
Identify new funding opportunities aligned with Lookingglass’s mission and programs.
Track trends in arts funding and recommend strategic approaches.
Collaboration & Strategy
Work closely with the Artistic, Education, and Finance teams to gather program data and develop narratives.
Contribute to annual fundraising goals and campaign planning.
Database & Administration
Maintain accurate records in the CRM system.
Track grant outcomes, donor communications, and funding history.

Qualifications

Minimum 5 years of experience in institutional fundraising, preferably in the arts or nonprofit sector.
Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills.
Strong organizational and project management abilities.
Superior attention to detail.
Familiarity with grant portals, databases and CRM systems.
Passion for theatre and commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Benefits

Health, dental, and vision insurance
Paid time off and holidays
Complimentary tickets to Lookingglass productions
Professional development opportunities
Lookingglass Theater Company believes diversity drives innovation. We are committed to building a team that reflects a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. You can read more about our specific Anti-Racism, Equity and Inclusion focus areas on our website under the ABOUT section.