Chief Development Officer (CDO)

Ymcafw; Fort Worth (TX); On-site; USD 150,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

An established organization is seeking a dynamic Chief Development Officer to lead philanthropic efforts in Fort Worth. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in a vibrant community known for its rich cultural heritage and commitment to social responsibility. As a key member of the leadership team, you will oversee fundraising initiatives, manage capital campaigns, and engage with community stakeholders. The YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, making it an ideal place for passionate leaders who want to drive change and strengthen communities. Join us in this rewarding mission to empower individuals and families through comprehensive programs.

Benefits

Health Benefits

403-B Retirement Fund

Vacation & Personal Time

Free Family Programs

Wellness Program

Qualifications

• 7-10 years of experience in non-profit development.
• Proven track record in fundraising leadership and managing campaigns.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies.
• Lead the Development Department and manage annual giving.

Skills

Fundraising Leadership

Relationship Building

Strategic Leadership

Campaign Management

Community Engagement

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Job description

Metropolitan Office, Fort Worth, Texas, United States of America

Job Description

Posted Friday, May 2, 2025 at 6:00 AM | Expires Sunday, June 1, 2025 at 5:59 AM

YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth Employment Application

Download the Full Playbook for the Chief Development Officer . This playbook will give you the 3 primary bucket areas for this position, additional job responsibilities, smart goals, how to earn up to a 10% bonus, and association goals and leadership qualities for the Fort Worth YMCA.

We are seeking experienced local candidates for the Chief Development Officer role to lead and drive philanthropic efforts in support of the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth. This position offers a competitive salary range of $150,000 - $165,000, with the opportunity to earn a bonus of up to 10% based on the achievement of individual and association-wide goals.

As a leader in one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas, this role provides the unique opportunity to make a lasting impact in Fort Worth, a city known for its rich history, thriving businsess community, and deep commitment to philanthropy. Fort Worth offers an exceptional quality of life, with a low cost of living, strong economy, top-rated schools, and a vibrant cultural scene-including world-class museums, entertainment, and outdoor recreation. The successful candidate will not only contribute to the Y's mission but also the benefits of living and working in a dynamic, community-focused city.

At the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth, we are dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. As we continue to expand our impact, we are seeking a dynamic and strategic Chief Development Officer (CDO) to lead our Development Department and drive our philanthropic efforts forward. The Chief Development Officer (CDO) will serve as a key member of the senior leadership team, overseeing all aspects of fund development to support the YMCA's mission and strategic priorities. This individual will be responsible for leading annual giving, capital campaigns, endowment growth, special events, and community engagement initiatives. The CDO will play a pivotal role in advancing our $300-million Comprehensive Campaign , with an immediate focus on achieving our $6.5-million annual giving goal and launching the $50-million capital phase .

OUR CULTURE: The culture of the Y is rooted in our Christian mission and core values. We strive every day to collectively embody our purpose of serving as a catalyst to transform lives and communities through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. We are respectful – we treat each other and those we serve as we hope to be treated ourselves. We are caring – we show a sincere concern for others and their well-being. We are honest – we are truthful in what we say and what we do, and we do not make promises we do not intend to keep. We are responsible – we are good stewards of our resources, strive for excellence and our actions are accountable to those we serve. We are innovative – we harness creativity, are solution minded and forward thinking. We lead with faith .

Why Fort Worth, Texas? Fort Worth offers the perfect blend of big-city excitement and small-town charm. Known for its rich cultural heritage, thriving arts scene, and affordable cost of living, it's no wonder Fort Worth is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the U.S. Whether you're enjoying a weekend at the Stockyards, exploring world-class museums, or attending one of the many community events, Fort Worth provides an unparalleled quality of life. With a strong economy, excellent schools, and easy access to outdoor adventures, Fort Worth is a beautiful place to live, work, and raise a family.

Why the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth? At the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth, we are more than just a gym or a swimming facility-we are a community of leaders dedicated to making a lasting impact. With 15 branches, 11 branch facilities, one camp, and three program branches, we've created a decentralized (Hybrid) model where leaders are empowered to make decisions and shape their communities. Our flat structure ensures that all voices are heard, building stronger partnerships, improved communication, and positive organizational changes .

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree with a minimum 7-10 years of experience in non-profit development, with a preference for experience in mission-driven , community-focused organization .
• Proven track record in fundraising leadership , including experience managing large-scale capital campaigns and securing major gifts.
• Strong leadership skill with experience managing high-performing teams .
• Exceptional relationship-building skills with the ability to engage and inspire donors, board members, and community partners.
• Knowledge of comprehensive campaign strategies , planned giving, and donor database management.
• Ability to align development efforts with the YMCA's strategic vision and mission.

This is an extraordinary opportunity to lead with impact, challenge the norm, and drive the future of the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth. Join us and be part of an organization that continues to innovate and grow, delivering on our mission to build strong kids, families, and communities.

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy to support annual giving, endowment, and capital campaign goals.
• Lead and manage the Development Department, ensuring best practices in donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Drive the success of the YMCA's annual funding goal of $6.5 million and oversee the execution of the $50-million capital campaign phase.
• Provide strategic leadership for the Comprehensive Campaign, working closely with senior leadership, board members, and volunteers to maximize impact.
• Cultivate and secure major gifts and corporate sponsorships, leveraging relationships with donors, foundations, and government agencies.
• Develop innovative strategies for donor engagement and recognition.

Community & Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as an ambassador for the YMCA, fostering relationships with key community leaders, businesses, and philanthropic organizations.
• Support YMCA branches in their local fundraising efforts and community engagement initiatives.
• Collaborate with marketing and communications teams to ensure alignment between fundraising and brand messaging.
• Work closely with the CEO, Board of Directors, and fundraising committees to advance the Y's philanthropic initiatives.
• Train and support staff and volunteers in fundraising best practices, ensuring a strong culture of philanthropy across the organization.
• Provide clear metrics and reporting on fundraising progress, impact, and opportunities.

MISSION

To put Christian principles into practice through programs, services and relationships that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

AREAS OF IMPACT

The YMCA is an organization that serves all people, from all backgrounds and all walks of life. Our purpose is to strengthen community. Our areas of impact include:

• Youth Development: Empowering young people to reach their full potential through early learning, out of school time, teen education and leadership, and swim, sports and play.
• Healthy Living: Improving individual and community well-being through traditional wellness and fitness programs, Evidence Based Health Initiatives, water safety and swimming, and sports and recreation.
• Social Responsibility: Providing support and inspiring action in our communities through empowering young people and supporting diverse communities.

COMPENSATION

The YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth offers a competitive salary and benefits package for selected candidates.

The yearly salary range for this position is $150,000 to $165,000 and will be commensurate with the selected candidate’s experience.

The YMCA provides competitive health benefits, a well-rounded wellness program and 403-B Retirement fund paid fully at 12% of total salary each year. In addition to medical, dental and vision coverage, plus life and long-term disability insurance, a work-life balance program includes up to 288 hours of vacation & personal time. Free and discounted programs for your family are included.

For more information about our compensation & benefits policies, please contact Theresa Stedifor, VP of Human Resources at [e-mail] .

If you are strategic fundraising leader with a passion for community impact, we invite you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience and vision for leading philanthropy at the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth.

This job description is not intended to be all inclusive. It is understood that the employee will also perform other reasonable association duties and will be responsible for implementation of the policies, procedures and standards established by the Metropolitan Board, the branch Board of Managers and the Association Leadership. Job descriptions are reviewed periodically and may be revised at the discretion of management. This job description is not a written or implied contract.

Metropolitan Office, Fort Worth, Texas, United States of America