Chief Development Officer

A leading healthcare organization is seeking a strategic and experienced Chief Development Officer (CDO) to drive fundraising initiatives and donor engagement. This role is based in Chicago, IL .

Role Summary

The Chief Development Officer will lead fundraising strategy and execution, aligning with the mission, vision, and values of the organization. The CDO will be responsible for donor cultivation, solicitation, stewardship, and the overall growth of philanthropic support. The ideal candidate is deeply passionate about the organization's mission and committed to making a meaningful impact in the community.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Fundraising Leadership: Develop and implement strategies to achieve fundraising goals and organizational objectives.
• Growth & Marketing Plans: Collaborate with executive leadership to create and execute development strategies.
• Donor Relations & Stewardship: Cultivate relationships with key donors, corporate sponsors, and community stakeholders.
• Operational Excellence: Establish policies and procedures to enhance service delivery and fundraising efficiency.
• Team Leadership: Recruit, mentor, and inspire a high-performing development team.
• Financial Oversight: Develop budgets, lead financial planning, and ensure revenue targets are met.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure operations align with applicable standards and accreditation requirements.
• Board Engagement: Act as a liaison to the foundation board and oversee board-related fundraising initiatives.

Desired Qualifications

• Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree preferred; a combination of at least 7 years of relevant fundraising experience , including 4 years in a leadership role .
• Fundraising Expertise: Proven success in philanthropy, donor engagement, and capital campaigns.
• Passion for the Mission: A strong personal commitment to the organization’s cause and the ability to communicate this passion to donors and stakeholders.
• Strategic Vision: Ability to align development efforts with organizational goals and long-term growth plans.
• Leadership & Team Development: Experience leading, coaching, and building effective fundraising teams.
• Financial & Budget Management: Strong analytical skills in setting and achieving financial targets.
• Relationship Management: Ability to build and maintain relationships with donors, board members, and stakeholders.

Compensation and Benefits

• Compensation: Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance, PTO, retirement plans with employer match, disability insurance, parental leave, adoption assistance, and employee assistance programs.
• Work Environment: Based in Chicago, IL , with occasional travel as needed.

Equal Opportunity Statement

This organization is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse work environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, gender, religion, age, disability, or any other protected classification.

To Apply

Submit your resume and a brief cover letter to

Application Questions

Please indicate responses to the following in your email:

1. Are you legally authorized to work in the United States?
2. Do you have at least 7 years of fundraising experience , including 4 years in a leadership role ?
3. Do you have experience leading donor cultivation, capital campaigns, or nonprofit fundraising strategies?
4. What is your preferred work arrangement (on-site, hybrid, remote)?