Chief Development Officer

Center on Halsted•Chicago, IL

just now

About The Position

Center on Halsted is looking for a Chief Development Officer with high Emotional Intelligence, is a systems-level thinker, and has a knack for building Development and Communications infrastructure. The Chief Development Officer (CDO) oversees the evaluation, execution, and expansion of Center on Halsted’s comprehensive development and fundraising program as well as lead marketing and communication efforts. The CDO will develop strategies to guide the effective cultivation of donors and lead the development function with a demonstrated understanding of and commitment to the organization’s mission and shared values. The Chief Development Officer reports directly to the CEO, serves as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, supports the Development Committee of the Board of Directors, and manages a staff that currently consists of five team members. This Chief Development Officer will need to be strategic, adaptable, innovative, and adept at guiding the ongoing professional development of a team. The CDO will carry a portfolio of major donors and support the CEO and Board in their donor cultivation. Additionally, the CDO will need to collaborate with colleagues on the Senior Leadership Team, especially Finance and Programs, to ensure open dialogue and effective reporting. Currently the Development Department consists of the following roles: Philanthropy Officer, Major Gifts Philanthropy Officer, Corporate Giving & Fundraising Events Philanthropy Officer, Grants Development Services & Stewardship Associate Manager of Marketing & Communications

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and evaluate the organization’s development and fundraising plan, strategy, and goals to maintain and expand contributions from individuals, corporations, foundations, and government sources
In partnership with the CEO, Board of Directors, and senior staff, establish a comprehensive development strategy to meet or exceed funding goals.
Implement systems and structures to maximize philanthropic revenue from all sources (annual fund, individual major gifts, corporate and foundation relations, government grants, special events).
Stay informed about trends in philanthropy, fund development, and nonprofit management; provide counsel to the CEO, Development Committee, and Board on current trends, issues, problems, and activities in order to facilitate policymaking; recommend policy positions concerning fund development.
Be familiar with all aspects of the Center’s programs and client base, to be able to help identify and pursue new funding and marketing opportunities.
Work collaboratively to implement Individual Engagement Plans (IEP) with the Board of Directors; meet regularly to provide consultation and staff support to the Development Committee of the Board.
Develop, implement and evaluate an annual, comprehensive communications plan both in support of the annual development plan and to expand awareness and visibility of the organization’s programs and services.
Lead and support the Development Department staff in planning our annual major fundraising events including, but not limited to the following: Human First Gala, Santa Speedo Run, AIDS Run/Walk
Develop and manage the Development department’s annual Budget creation process including oversight of the annual revenue and expense line items.
Prioritize creating and implementing effective and strategic fundraising and communications processes within the Development Department.
Manage and lead development department staff, collaborating individually and collectively to meet annual revenue and other departmental objectives. Identify staff development and training needs and provide solutions. Conduct annual staff performance reviews.
Provide oversight for development operations, coordination of effective prospect research, and key donor engagement functions including special events, cause marketing campaigns, and marketing and communications efforts.
Support the stability and sustainability of the development function by creating a working environment that is supportive to staff and volunteers.
Participate in developing high-level solicitation strategies with the CEO, Board, and key relationship managers; provide oversight and review for proposals and solicitation materials.
Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and laws, maintain accountability standards for donors, and adhere to codes of ethical principles and standards of professional conduct for fundraising executives.
Formalize the relationship management process from identification through stewardship, to ensure a high donor retention and renewal rate; develop comprehensive donor recognition programs for individuals, corporations, and foundations.