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)