Business Development Officer, Veterinary Health System

Colorado State University • Fort Collins, CO

3d • $120,000 - $160,000

About The Position

The Business Development Officer provides strategic leadership for operational growth, business development, and financial planning initiatives across the Veterinary Health System. This role identifies and advances sustainable revenue opportunities, builds strategic partnerships, and aligns resources to support the long-term clinical, diagnostic, research, and educational missions of VHS. As a member of the executive leadership team, the position plays a key role in expanding services and strengthening the system’s financial and operational sustainability. The Veterinary Health System transforms our service units into a comprehensive veterinary medical center governed by responsible management that supports our units’ individual missions. Capitalizing on Colorado State University’s top ranking in veterinary medicine and building on our tradition of providing high-quality compassionate care and achieving outstanding clinical outcomes, the Veterinary Health System broadens our expertise and skill to deliver the highest levels of customer service, employee satisfaction, and advancements in medicine through clinical service, research, and innovation.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Health Administration, or related advanced degree.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive leadership experience in financial management, business development, or a related role within healthcare or academic health systems.
• Proven track record in strategic financial planning, budgeting, and business development, with a strong analytical skill test.
• Demonstrated success in leading high-impact projects, securing partnerships, and generating new revenue streams.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, with the ability to influence and engage stakeholders across multiple levels.
• Experience with financial software, and/or ERP systems, and advanced methods in business development and accounting.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of veterinary health operations or animal care services.
• Familiarity with academic institutions, including managing finances within a higher education setting.
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Identify, evaluate, and advance strategic business development opportunities that expand clinical services, diagnostic testing, research initiatives, and educational programs across the Veterinary Health System, directly supporting growth, innovation, and long-term sustainability.
• Lead and negotiate strategic partnerships and collaborations with industry, government, non-profit, and international entities to generate diversified revenue streams, support mission-critical initiatives, and enhance the VHS’s market presence and community impact.
• Direct financial strategy, planning, and oversight by developing and managing operating, capital, philanthropic, and strategic budgets; analyzing financial performance; and advising executive leadership on fiscal strategy, investment priorities, and forecasted needs.
• Oversee operational and resource management functions related to business operations and IT systems by optimizing staffing models, technology investments, and capital resources, and implementing systems to track performance metrics and support data-driven decision-making.
• Manage contracts, vendor relationships, and investment strategies by overseeing negotiations, ensuring favorable terms, directing philanthropic contributions, grants, and endowments, and optimizing financial resources to support long-term institutional goals.
• Provide executive leadership and organizational guidance by mentoring and developing finance and business development staff, supporting unit leadership with budgeting and resource allocation, and representing VHS in executive and institutional planning discussions.
• Ensure compliance, fiscal controls, and risk management by maintaining adherence to university, state, and federal financial regulations; implementing risk mitigation strategies; and collaborating with audit and compliance teams to protect VHS assets and uphold ethical standards.
• Perform other related duties as assigned in support of the Veterinary Health System’s strategic, financial, and operational objectives.

Benefits

• Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service.
• With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.
• Review our detailed benefits information here.
• Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.
• For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.
• Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive