Jill Zimmerman is a Vice President at Alford Group and a nonprofit executive with more than 30 years of experience advancing mission‑driven organizations through leadership, philanthropy, and organizational effectiveness.
Before rejoining Alford Group, Jill served as Chief Philanthropy Officer at the Greater Chicago Food Depository, where she was a member of the leadership team and partnered closely with the CEO and board. She led a multidisciplinary team and contributed to shaping organizational and fundraising priorities, securing more than $60 million annually and increasing overall giving by 300 percent. Jill led the organization’s COVID‑19 emergency fundraising response and completed a $75 million capital campaign. In 2024, the Association of Fundraising Professionals Chicago recognized Jill for her collaborative CEO and CDO partnership that advanced community impact.
Across executive and consulting roles, Jill has supported organizations as they plan for growth, manage change, and align leadership and resources to meet evolving needs. She taught at the University of Chicago’s Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy and Practice and serves on the boards of the Annenberg Center for Health Sciences and the Student Sponsorship Programme in South Africa.
Education & Credentials
B.A. in Psychology and Philosophy, University of California at Santa Barbara
M.A. in Social Work, University of Chicago
Relevant Clients & Experience
Advocate Charitable and Aurora Health Care Foundations, Alternatives, After School Matters, Greater Chicago Food Depository, YWCA of Chicago
