Chief Development Officer

Columbus House, Inc; New Haven (CT); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading non-profit organization in New Haven seeks a Chief Development Officer to design and implement fundraising strategies, manage the development team, and enhance community relations. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in fundraising and a passion for supporting those experiencing homelessness.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of fundraising and non-profit community relations experience.
• Experience managing a high-performing team across multiple sites.

Responsibilities

• Manage and direct fundraising staff and volunteers.
• Create and oversee strategic and annual plans to increase awareness and support.
• Lead major gifts, sponsorships, events, and campaigns.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Collaboration

Organizational

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Master’s degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Donor management software

Job description

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Summary/Objective

Under the direction of the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Development Officer designs, implements, and coordinates a comprehensive program of charitable gift development and community relations to maximize public awareness, participation, and support of Columbus House programs and services. The Chief Development Officer oversees the development department, including the Development Director, Communications Specialist, Volunteer Coordinator, Grant Specialist, Development Associate, and interns.

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required

• Bachelor’s Degree with 10+ years of fundraising and non-profit community relations experience, including individual giving and major gift development.
• Passion for Columbus House’s mission and ability to communicate this effectively.
• Experience managing a high-performing team across multiple sites, with a focus on professional development and mentorship.
• Goal-oriented, confidentiality, leadership, collaboration, management, problem-solving, and communication skills. Strong planning and organizational abilities. Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and donor management software. Ability to utilize and maintain database integrity.
• Ability to analyze and compile complex data for planning and reporting.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills for external representation.
• Strong relationship-building skills to foster collaboration among stakeholders.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and community awareness.
• Ability to operate in a fast-paced, outcomes-driven environment.
• Commitment to diversity, inclusiveness, and empowerment.
• Valid driver’s license, good driving history, and access to a vehicle.

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Desired

• Master’s degree in a related field.
• Membership in AFP and pursuit of CFRE credential.

Physical and Mental Requirements

• Ability to move within the community, sit for extended periods, and perform office tasks.
• Empathetic skills, ability to assess staff needs and strengths.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Define and communicate a compelling case for support, serving as an advocate for those experiencing homelessness.
• Manage and direct fundraising staff and volunteers, ensuring policies and professional development.
• Create and oversee strategic and annual plans to increase awareness and support.
• Engage volunteers and present fundraising reports to the Board and CEO.
• Lead major gifts, sponsorships, annual fund, events, campaigns, and planned giving initiatives.
• Identify new donors and manage the development of the Moves Management program.
• Seek foundation grants and ensure compliance with restrictions and reporting.
• Improve processes continuously across responsibilities.
• Other duties as assigned.

Key Competencies

• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal)
• Public speaking
• Problem-solving and outcome focus
• Leadership and team development
• Data analysis
• Budget management