Chief Development Officer

Reports to: President & CEO

Work Location: Landings

POSITION SUMMARY:

Reporting to the President & CEO, the Chief Development Officer (CDO) is a dynamic and multi-tasking fundraising professional who serves on the senior leadership team as the primary team member responsible for the design, planning and implementation of philanthropic strategies. The CDO will work closely with the President & CEO, Board of Directors, and senior leadership team to develop and implement a comprehensive development strategy to increase the organization’s funding and donor base. This role requires a visionary leader who can cultivate relationships, drive strategic initiatives, and ensure the financial sustainability of the organization. The CDO manages a team of fundraising professionals leading all aspects of fundraising initiatives with a positive professional attitude and strategic mindset. The Chief Development Officer will uphold the mission of the Education Foundation of Sarasota County, which is to enhance the potential of students, promote excellence in teaching and inspire innovation in education, guided by strategic philanthropy.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Strategic Planning: Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy that aligns with the organization’s mission and long-term goals.
2. Leadership and Management: Lead, mentor, and manage the development team, ensuring high performance and professional growth. Foster a collaborative, mission-driven culture.
3. Fundraising and Revenue Generation: Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors, foundations, corporations, and other funding sources. Oversee the planning and execution of all fundraising events and campaigns.
4. Board and Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with the Board of Directors and other key stakeholders to support fundraising efforts. Provide regular reports on development activities and progress toward goals.
5. Donor Relations: Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with current and prospective donors. Ensure personalized and timely communication with donors, including acknowledgment of gifts and updates on the impact of their contributions.
6. Grant Writing and Management: Oversee the identification of grant opportunities and the development of proposals. Ensure compliance with grant reporting requirements.
7. Budgeting and Financial Oversight: Work with the President & CEO to develop and manage the development department’s budget. Monitor fundraising performance and adjust strategies as needed to meet financial targets.
8. Marketing and Communications: Collaborate with the marketing team to develop compelling messaging and materials that effectively communicate the organization’s impact and fundraising needs.
9. Data Management and Reporting: Ensure accurate and efficient tracking of donor information and fundraising activities using CRM systems. Analyze data to inform strategic decisions and report outcomes to leadership.
10. Donor Portfolio Management: Build and manage a portfolio of major gift prospects and donors. Develop personalized strategies for engaging and cultivating each donor. Establish and deepen relationships with donors through regular communication, personal visits, and tailored engagement activities.
11. Gift Planning: Demonstrate a solid understanding of planned giving vehicles, including bequests, charitable remainder trusts, charitable gift annuities, and donor-advised funds. Initiate and lead conversations with donors about planned giving options. Work closely with donors’ financial and legal advisors to facilitate complex gift arrangements. Integrate gift planning strategies into the overall fundraising plan, ensuring alignment with major gift initiatives and the comprehensive campaign.

Work with team on any other duties/activities as assigned.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university required, advanced degree in nonprofit management, business administration, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum 7-10 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role. Proven track record of successfully managing and growing a diverse portfolio of funding sources.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• High level of proficiency in donor management software (e.g., Raiser’s Edge).
• Ability to think strategically and creatively to solve problems and drive results.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with attention to detail.
• Demonstrated track record in individual gift fundraising, including experience closing gifts of $100,000+.
• Understanding of the principles and vehicles of gift planning.
• Proficient in Microsoft Suite, including Excel.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

1. Mission-Driven: A deep commitment to the mission and values of the organization.
2. Visionary: Ability to see the big picture and inspire others to work toward the organization’s long-term goals.
3. Relationship Builder: Strong networking skills with the ability to build and maintain relationships with a wide variety of stakeholders.
4. Integrity: High ethical standards and a commitment to transparency and accountability.
5. Resilient: Ability to remain positive and persistent in the face of challenges and setbacks.

COMPENSATION

The organization offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including medical and retirement benefits. This is a full-time, salaried exempt position. Salary range $120,000-$150,000.

No phone calls, please. All resumes should include a cover letter for consideration.