Vice President of Development

Chileda Institute Inc.•La Crosse, WI

1d•Remote

About The Position

The newly created Vice President (VP) of Development will be a key member of Chileda's executive leadership team, responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy that advances Chileda's mission and fuels our growth from a regional leader to a nationally recognized organization. We're seeking a visionary leader to build and head a new advancement department from the ground up. This role will establish and oversee grants, donor relations, major gifts, and donor data systems-creating the structure, processes, and culture needed for long-term success. It's an opportunity to shape a high-impact program and lay the foundation for sustainable growth. Our VP of Development will inspire generosity, cultivate meaningful donor relationships, and secure the resources needed to expand our impact nationwide. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker, a relationship builder, and a passionate advocate for Chileda's vision.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required with a minimum of five to seven years in nonprofit fundraising, with three to five years in senior leadership.
Proven success in securing six-and seven-figure major gifts and experience building or scaling a development program.
Familiarity with regional/national donor cultivation and experience expanding a donor base from regional to national.
Capital campaign leadership experience.
Exceptional relationship-building and communication skills.
Strategic planning and market expansion expertise.
Proficiency with donor CRM systems.
Strong public speaking and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement a multi-year philanthropic strategy that supports Chileda's transition from regional to national prominence.
Partner closely with the CEO and engage the Board of Directors in donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship activities.
Collaborate with the CEO, COO, VP of Finance, and Board of Directors to integrate philanthropy into organizational priorities and growth plans.
Lead all fundraising initiatives, including major gifts, annual giving, planned giving, corporate partnerships, and foundation grants - with a focus on expanding donor networks.
Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors and prospects nationwide.
Oversee donor recognition programs and ensure a high-quality donor experience.
Serve as a visible ambassador for Chileda in local, regional, and national arenas.
Represent Chileda at events, conferences, and donor gatherings across the country.
Develop and implement a nationally focused fundraising plan with clear revenue and engagement metrics.
Lead major gift, planned giving, and capital campaign strategies.
Oversee donor portfolio management, ensuring a healthy pipeline at all giving levels.
Personally manage a portfolio of top prospects and donors.
Create tailored cultivation and stewardship plans for high-net-worth individuals, corporate partners
Host and attend donor events regionally and nationally.
Partner with the board to expand their fundraising role and networks.
Establish relationships with philanthropic leaders and influencers nationwide.
Oversee donor database accuracy, reporting, and analytics.
Use data to forecast revenue, measure ROI, and refine strategies.