Chief Development Officer, American Lung Association

Gilder Search Group; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading nonprofit organization based in Chicago, IL, is seeking a Chief Development Officer to drive revenue programs and enhance donor relationships. The ideal candidate will have extensive management and leadership experience in nonprofit fundraising. This role requires strategic planning to align revenue efforts with organizational priorities. Apply by April 6, 2026, to contribute to an impactful mission focused on lung health and disease prevention.

Qualifications

• Proven record in a leadership role within a voluntary health organization or similar.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in managing donor relationships and revenue programs.

Responsibilities

• Drive planning and development of revenue programs.
• Develop strategic objectives for the Development department.
• Lead and execute a performance-oriented advancement program.

Skills

Proven management experience

Leadership in fundraising

Strategic planning

Data-driven decision-making

Education

Relevant degree in a related field

Job description

Kittleman and Associates -Chicago, IL, United States

Posted 2/25/26

For over 120 years, the American Lung Association (ALA) has remained steadfast in their mission of saving lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy, and research. Today, the ALA stands as a trusted leader in lung health education, advocacy, and research, with strategic imperatives focused on defeating lung cancer, creating a tobacco-free future, championing clean air, and improving quality of life for those living with lung disease.

Working closely with the CEO, the Chief Development Officer (CDO) will be responsible for driving the planning, development, and management of all revenue programs for ALA including developing strategic objectives for the Development department. Alongside the CEO and Executive Leadership Team members, the CDO will develop a strategic direction to respond to the organization’s revenue, management, and external engagement needs, as well as direct and guide the stewardship of ALA’s current and potential donors, sponsors, and partners.

The CDO is ALA’s chief revenue strategist and fundraiser. The CDO partners closely with other members of the Executive Leadership Team to align revenue plans with the organization’s strategic priorities. The CDO serves as a core member of the Executive Leadership Team and is responsible for designing, leading, and executing a unified performance-oriented advancement program that grows diversified revenue, strengthens donor relationships, and uses data and technology to inform strategy.

ALA seeks a development executive with proven management and leadership experience in a similar position in a voluntary health organization, college or university, healthcare environment, or a related nonprofit organization. This is an exceptional opportunity to help lead a strong, nationally recognized organization with a long history and a powerful mission—to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease.

Applications and nominations are being received by Kittleman & Associates, LLC. To apply, please send a current resume and letter of interest to Kittleman (click on the Apply button at the bottom of the page). For best consideration, please submit your materials by April 6, 2026.

For more information on ALA, please visit here .