Chief Development Officer

Jade deshonglogan

GLSEN seeks an exceptional, results-oriented Chief Development Officer to build upon its strong fundraising program to support the organization's growing momentum. The successful candidate will be a dynamic and accomplished individual with superior communication skills and the ability to work effectively and collaboratively with the National Board of Directors and executive team to meet the financial needs of GLSEN's strategic vision. GLSENs next CDO will have the opportunity to make their mark on the history of a movement and the organizations development in a truly significant way by leading a 25th anniversary campaign for GLSENs future and being part of the strategic planning for GLSENs next chapter of growth and achievement. Primary Function Reporting to the Executive Director, the Chief Development Officer (CDO) provides the strategic vision, leadership and coordination of GLSENs fundraising strategies and activities. The CDO is responsible for ensuring the stability and growth of multifaceted revenue streams that include Individual Giving (Major and Planned Gifts), Institutional Giving (Foundation, Corporation and Government), Special Events (nationally recognized Respect Award galas in New York and Los Angeles and other special events) and a Direct Marketing Program (traditional direct mail and e-philanthropy). Reporting Relationships and Volunteer Support The CDO reports directly to the Executive Director and will oversee a staff of five, as follows: Senior Manager of Individual Giving Major Gifts Officer (West Coast) Foundation Relations Manager Development Associate Events Associate In addition the CDO is responsible for oversight of relationships with outside vendors that support GLSENs Respect Awards events and its Direct Marketing program. In partnership with the Executive Director, the CDO and other members of the senior management team Chief Communications and Advocacy Officer, Chief Strategy and Research Officer, and Chief Operating Officer provide strategic leadership and operational management for GLSEN as a whole. The CDO will work closely with GLSENs deeply committed National Board of Directors, comprised of corporate, education and philanthropic leaders from across the US. Additionally, the CDO oversees and supports a highly energetic and passionate National Leadership Council whose purpose is raise funds to support GLSENs strategic and operational plans. Responsibilities Lead the efforts to raise annual operating revenue, with a current target of $7 million including increased multiyear support. Design and implement short-term and long-range plans to significantly increase annual funds. Design and implement optimal staffing structure for the Development Department to support fundraising objectives. Develop and nurture a diverse, energetic and highly skilled staff that is well prepared to meet the goals of a growing organization. Maximize the fundraising potential of the high-level volunteers serving on the organizations Board, National Leadership Council and National Advisory Council. Significantly expand the organization's major and institutional donor cultivation efforts by providing comprehensive, timely and innovative stewardship of all gifts and implementing an effective ladder for donors to participate in GLSEN's growth. Grow cost effective direct, e-mail and other targeted solicitation programs and refine set of fundraising programs to attract new donors. Work with the Communications Department to ensure consistent messaging and branding in all print and online donor communication vehicles. Provide strategic and marketing oversight to all donor materials, and strategic support on the full range of external stakeholder communications. Effectively manage and organize the department's day-to-day operations, budgets and income forecasts. Use database and financial management systems to analyze progress against plans, to monitor expenses and fundraising efficiencies and ensure security of all donor records. Partner with GLSENs finance and accounting staff to sustain efficient, effective and transparent financial tracking and reporting processes. Develop clear processes and collaborate with other departments to create an understanding of and appreciation for the development function. Foster an environment of cohesiveness and collaboration with colleagues across all departments and serve as a collegial and participatory member of the organization's executive team. Qualifications The ideal candidate should meet the following criteria: Demonstrated experience successfully managing a development program or department of comparable size, with 10+ years experience in nonprofit fundraising and an understanding of the current best practices and emerging trends in the sector. Strong track record of personal success in identifying, cultivating and soliciting major individual, foundation and corporate donors. The intellectual depth, entrepreneurial drive, maturity, self-confidence, interpersonal skills and warmth to build and maintain relationships with people at all levels of the organization, across a diverse range of educational and social backgrounds. Excellent communication skills