Chief Development Officer

New York Public Radio•New York City, NY

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

New York Public Radio (NYPR) is seeking an exceptional, results-oriented Chief Development Officer (CDO) to lead and expand its fundraising activities. This role is crucial for supporting the organization's mission-driven, award-winning programming, digital priorities, and long-term strategic objectives. The CDO will partner with the CEO and key stakeholders to explore untapped potential, building upon existing development and membership programs to elevate the culture of philanthropy throughout the organization. The primary aspiration is to create and execute an ambitious and innovative plan to increase philanthropic support from all sources, with a particular focus on building a sustainable, robust major, principal, and transformative gifts program from individual and institutional donors. The CDO will also provide leadership to drive growth of the membership revenue program, tapping into new approaches and maximizing digital resources and opportunities. This individual will lead integrated functions requiring strong alignment and collaboration across revenue generation, content, marketing, media and public relations, digital product, and audience intelligence and development. The CDO will be a dynamic and accomplished individual with excellent leadership, communication, and collaboration skills, capable of working effectively across the organization and with the Board of Trustees to produce superior results. They will be a proven leader with strategic thinking abilities, strong management skills, demonstrated success in major gift fundraising, a collaborative approach, and the personal energy, enthusiasm, courage, agility, and drive to motivate others and rally a team to achieve exceptional results. Additionally, this executive will be a key leader in building a people-centered culture that is diverse and inclusive.

Requirements

A significant history of progressively responsible professional experience in advancement/development with sound experience and proven results securing major and principal gift level philanthropy in New York and beyond.
Experience leading the entire range of development strategies and tactics, including capital, endowment and other campaigns, major and planned giving, foundation and corporate fundraising, event planning, prospect research, and stewardship.
A change agent and builder committed to best practices in the field.
A demonstrated track record of working effectively with trustees, building strong relationships, inspiring them to action on behalf of the organization, and engaging them as fundraisers and donors on behalf of the organization.
Strong analytical skills and experience interpreting a strategic vision into an operational model.
Proven ability to build cohesive, high-performing staff and work teams and to develop the skills and nurture the growth of staff members.
Ability to partner effectively with the President & CEO, senior team, trustees, staff, and donors and provide motivation at all levels of the organization.
Knowledge of the Greater New York and national philanthropic communities.
Understanding of applicable regulations and laws related to fundraising.
Experience managing the life cycle of complex development budgets and grants.
A deep appreciation and passion for the mission and aspirations of NYPR.
An adept influencer who uses the power of collaboration to make sound decisions and achieve positive results.
Technologically savvy and comfortable in the digital space.
An impeccable reputation for integrity and ethics.
Polished written communication and public speaking skills.
An effective and strategic communicator who is open, visible, and approachable.
High energy, entrepreneurial drive, creativity, flexibility, and mission-orientation.
An agile learner—able to thrive in a fast-paced environment and to respond effectively to new and changing circumstances.
Bachelor’s degree required, graduate degree preferred.

Nice To Haves

Experience in a media organization or cultural institution is a plus.

Responsibilities

Develop innovative strategies to significantly increase philanthropic giving.
Lead the team to increase annual operating revenue from all philanthropic sources.
Serve as a frontline cultivator and solicitor, managing a significant portfolio of major and principal level prospects.
Cultivate and steward donors; make significant requests for support from major donors, board members, foundations, and corporations.
Effectively manage and organize the department’s day-to-day operations and budgets.
Streamline processes and procedures.
Leverage technology and data analytics to assess progress against plans, monitor expenses and cost-per-dollar raised, and ensure the security of all donor records.
Foster higher level of board engagement to support the organization’s fundraising.
Build a strong partnership with trustees and leverage and support the board to help advance NYPR’s fundraising activities.
Lead, inspire, and support the development team to drive excellence and ensure the function is well-prepared to meet the ongoing challenges of a public, mission-driven institution.
Nurture and mentor team members and provide opportunities for meaningful work, skills enhancement, and career development.
Foster an environment of cohesiveness, caring, and collaboration with colleagues across all NYPR departments.
Serve as a collegial and participatory member of the organization’s senior leadership team.