Programs and Development Coordinator


Programs and Development Coordinator

The Programs and Development Coordinator is a cross-functional role that supports the successful execution of mission-aligned programming while strengthening fundraising, stewardship, and institutional sustainability of South Asia Institute. This position serves as both an internal operations anchor and an external ambassador of South Asia Institute.

To apply, please email your resume and cover letter, as well as three references, to info@saichicago.org with the subject line “FIRST NAME LAST NAME Programs and Outreach Coordinator”

 

Key Responsibilities

Development Operations

  • Maintain accurate CRM records and gift processing

  • Draft donor acknowledgments and stewardship communications

  • Track pledges, renewals, and sponsorship commitments

  • Ensure fulfillment of donor, member, sponsor benefits and recognitio

Administrative & Office Operations

  • Manage daily office operations, including scheduling, correspondence, filing systems

  • (digital and physical), and general office administration.

  • Serve as the primary administrative point of contact for staff, board members,

  • volunteers, artists, partners, contractors and visitors.

  • Manage and lead registration of SAI visitors

  • Answer and route general inquiries via email, phone, and in person.

  • Maintain office supplies, equipment, and vendor relationships.

  • Support onboarding and offboarding of staff, interns, and volunteers.

Financial & Systems Support

  • Assist with basic financial administration, including invoice processing, donation processing, expense tracking, reimbursements, and record-keeping.

  • Support budget tracking and reporting in coordination with leadership and external accountants/bookkeepers.

  • Maintain organized administrative records related to grants, contracts, insurance, and compliance.

Program & Event Support

  • Provide administrative support for exhibitions, performances, literary programs, workshops, and other special events as directed.

  • Assist with event logistics, scheduling, execution of contracts, artist hospitality, and on-site coordination as needed.

  • Support event registration, ticketing, attendance metrics tracking, and post-event survey follow-up.

Board & Governance Support

  • Assist with preparation for board and committee meetings, including scheduling, materials distribution, minutes, and follow-up items.

  • Maintain board records and contact lists.

Internal Communications & Coordination

  • Assist with maintaining calendars, deadlines, and shared documents.

  • Coordinate with external partners and service providers as directed.

Qualifications

Required

  • 2–4 years administrative or operations experience, preferably in a nonprofit,

  • arts, or cultural organization.

  • Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage

  • multiple priorities.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

  • High level of professionalism, discretion, and reliability.

  • Proficiency with office / administrative software (Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Zoom).

Preferred

  • Experience supporting programs, events, or exhibitions.

  • Familiarity with nonprofit operations, budgets, or grants administration.

  • Interest in South Asian arts, culture, or humanities.

  • Experience working with databases, CRM systems, or ticketing platforms.

Working Style & Competencies

  • Detail-oriented and highly organized.

  • Collaborative and service-oriented.

  • Proactive problem-solver with a willingness to learn.

  • Comfortable working independently while supporting a small team.

Application Materials

  • Resume

  • Cover letter

  • Three (3) references

To apply, please email your resume and cover letter, as well as three references, to info@saichicago.org with the subject line “FIRST NAME LAST NAME Programs and Outreach Coordinator”

Equal Opportunity Statement

South Asia Institute is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities.

About South Asia Institute

South Asia Institute (SAI) was founded in 2015 as an Illinois 501(c)3 nonprofit public corporation and opened in 2019. South Asia Institute is the only independent South Asian organization in Chicago dedicated solely to preserving, promoting, and presenting South Asian arts, culture, and humanities.

Mission & Vision

South Asia Institute aims to cultivate the arts, culture and humanities of South Asia and its global diaspora through curated exhibitions and community programming that engage diverse communities. Amplifying South Asian creatives from a local, national, and global scope, SAI aims to feature art and artists with roots across the region.

Employment Details

  • Status: Part-time

  • Schedule:

    • On-site: Thursday – Saturday 11 AM – 6PM

    • Off-site: Tuesday, Wednesday ~ 3-4 hours/ day

  • Location: Hybrid – Chicago, IL

  • Compensation: Commensurate with experience

  • Benefits: None (part-time)