The Tech Interactive, Chief Development Officer

Edgility Search; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 250,000 - 285,000; Full time

Job summary

The Tech Interactive seeks a dynamic Chief Development Officer to propel philanthropy across foundations, corporations, and individuals in Silicon Valley. You will lead a high‑impact development team, drive a strategic campaign plan, and build authentic donor relationships that advance the mission.

As an executive leader, you will partner with the CEO and board to set ambitious fundraising goals, expand partnerships, and ensure growth aligns with The Tech Interactive's values and impact on

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience; master's degree preferred.
• Proven leadership in philanthropic strategies across corporate, nonprofit, and public sectors.
• Strong fundraising, outreach, and donor relationship management skills.
• Excellent communication with CEO, board, and donors.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development team with a culture of collaboration, accountability, and growth.
• Set and coach performance metrics to meet fundraising targets.
• Develop strategic development plans and diversify donor bases across foundations, corporations, and individuals.
• Cultivate major prospects and represent The Tech Interactive externally.

Skills

Strategic Visionary

Relationship Builder

Donor Cultivator

Philanthropic Leader

Effective Communicator

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Master's degree preferred

Job description

ORGANIZATION

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.

ORGANIZATION

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 www.thetech.org.

OPPORTUNITY

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.