Chief Development Officer

Association of Fundraising Professionals; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 250,000 - 285,000; Full time

Job summary

The Tech Interactive seeks a dynamic Chief Development Officer to drive philanthropic investments, foster authentic donor relationships, and build a robust culture of philanthropy to propel our mission.

This executive leads the Strategic Campaign Plan, partners with the CEO and board, and oversees efforts across foundations, corporate donors and individuals to achieve about $12M annually. The role is on-site three days a week with flexible donor events as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience; master’s degree preferred.
• 10+ years of leadership in philanthropic strategies.
• Proven success in building business relationships across corporate, public, and nonprofit sectors.
• Expertise in all aspects of development, including planned giving, gift solicitations, stewardship, and donor recognition.
• Strong track record in development, fundraising, communications, and management.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor and inspire a high performing development team, fostering collaboration, accountability, and continuous professional growth.
• Set clear individual and team performance metrics, providing regular coaching and data-driven feedback to ensure fundraising targets are met.
• Structure and resource the development department efficiently to maximize fundraising capacity.
• Promote a supportive, inclusive, and highly motivated team environment that aligns with the organization’s values.
• Collaborate with the CEO, staff, and board to set and achieve ambitious development goals.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive development plan with clear, data-driven objectives.
• Diversify and expand our donor base with creative philanthropic strategies.
• Spearhead a corporate giving program, securing grants, sponsorships, and in-kind support.

Skills

Leadership

Donor cultivation

Strategic planning

Fundraising communications

Relationship management

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience

Master’s degree preferred

Job description

About The Tech

At the intersection of innovation, education, and impact stands The Tech Interactive, a globally recognized science and technology center in the heart of Silicon Valley with a mission to inspire the innovator in everyone. Serving more than 250,000 visitors each year, The Tech transforms curiosity into action through hands-on STEM experiences, award-winning educational programs, and initiatives that connect technology to the world's most pressing challenges. For more than four decades, the organization has helped millions of young people, educators, and families build the confidence and skills to become creators, problem-solvers, and leaders. As The Tech embarks on its next chapter of growth and influence, it is poised to expand its reach and deepen its role as a catalyst for innovation, opportunity, and global good.

To learn more about The Tech Interactive, please visit thetech.org

Position Summary

The Tech Interactive seeks a dynamic Chief Development Officer to drive our philanthropic efforts. This visionary leader will secure vital investments, foster authentic relationships, and build a robust culture of philanthropy to propel our mission forward.

The Chief Development Officer is a strategic, visionary communicator who leads the Strategic Campaign Plan, enhances development partnerships, and effectively engages with prospective and current donors, foundations, corporations, and others in our community. This is an executive leadership role driving The Tech Interactive’s development strategies to new heights with an annual fundraising goal of about $12M, which is split between Foundations, Corporate Donors and Individual Giving.

Key Competencies

• Strategic Visionary
• Relationship Builder
• Donor Cultivator
• Philanthropic Leader
• Effective Communicator

RESPONSIBILITIES

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor and inspire a high performing development team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous professional growth.
• Set clear individual and team performance metrics, providing regular coaching and data-driven feedback to ensure fundraising targets are met.
• Structure and resource the development department efficiently to maximize fundraising capacity and align with organizational growth.
• Promote a supportive, inclusive, and highly motivated team environment that aligns with the Tech Interactive’s core values.

Strategic Execution

• Collaborate with the CEO, staff, and board to set and achieve ambitious development goals that align with the mission and values of The Tech.
• Lead innovative resource development strategies for individuals, corporations, agencies, and foundations.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive development plan with clear, data-driven objectives.
• Diversify and expand our donor base with creative philanthropic strategies.
• Spearhead a corporate giving program, securing grants, sponsorships, and in-kind support.

Relationship Amplification

• Identify and engage new major prospects to grow our revenue and diversify our donor base.
• Collaborate with board members and the President/CEO to secure significant gifts.
• Foster a culture of philanthropy aligned with The Tech Interactive’s values and mission.
• Build and sustain long-term relationships with donors, partners, and funders.
• Represent The Tech Interactive as an external ambassador, making impactful solicitations and presentations.
• Lead and inspire fundraising and cultivation events.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience; master’s degree preferred.
• 10+ years of leadership in philanthropic strategies, with a preference for entrepreneurial nonprofit environments.
• Proven success in building business relationships across corporate, public, and nonprofit sectors.
• Expertise in all aspects of development, including planned giving, gift solicitations, stewardship, and donor recognition.
• Strong track record in development, fundraising, communications, and management.
• Exceptional relationship management and direct fundraising skills.
• Ability to lead, motivate, and collaborate with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Deep commitment to The Tech Interactive’s mission and the communities we serve.
• Demonstrated success in developing and executing top-tier philanthropic strategies.

WORKING CONDITIONS & SCHEDULE

• The position works on site three days a week, with flexibility to attend donor and other meetings and events on other workdays, weekends and evenings as needed.
• This is an on-site role with the possibility of flexibility for working some days at an alternative work location. Flexibility will vary depending on the needs of the job.
• Working occasional evenings and weekends will be required.

Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $250,000 - $285,000 and a competitive benefits package. More details can be provided upon request.

The Tech Interactive is an equal opportunity employer and an organization that values diversity. Recruiting staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all backgrounds. Candidates are evaluated solely on their qualifications to perform the work required.