Chief Development Officer

The client seeks an entrepreneurial and fearless fundraising leader to serve as Chief Development Officer (CDO). Reporting to the President and CEO, the CDO will be a key member of the Senior Leadership Team and partner with stakeholders such as the board, staff, artists, donors, and funders to achieve the organization’s strategic and fundraising goals. In close collaboration with senior leadership, the CDO will direct efforts to advance philanthropy and community understanding, with a focus on growing contributed income over time. The CDO will provide inspirational and effective development leadership by establishing a strategic philanthropic vision that advances the organization’s strategic plan and strengthens long-term institutional health. Responsibilities include developing and leading a multiyear philanthropic strategy aligned across annual, campaign, and planned giving priorities; translating the organization’s mission, programs, collections, history, audiences, and finances into compelling donor messaging; and producing strategic tools to guide donor engagement and leadership volunteer activation. The role also requires designing and executing a comprehensive fundraising plan across individuals, foundations, corporations, and government, meeting annual and multiyear revenue goals through disciplined planning and continuous optimization. Serving as a primary gift solicitor and closer, the CDO will manage a high-value portfolio, drive prospect movement with clear activity and revenue targets, and strengthen the donor pipeline through defined stages and portfolio standards. The CDO will ensure effective donor and prospect communication across cultivation, solicitation, follow-up, and stewardship, and will lead planned giving efforts to build durable future-focused revenue streams. The CDO will build, mentor, and coach the development team, recruit and develop staff, and serve as an ambassador through external engagement, including attending community gatherings and peer fundraising events, while providing strategic leadership for signature fundraising activities and sponsorship strategy.