Chief Development Officer

Fundraising Strategy & Oversight:

• Lead the planning, execution, and evaluation of the YMCA’s annual campaign, capital campaigns, and endowment growth initiatives.
• Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies that align with the YMCA’s mission and strategic priorities.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors, corporate partners, and foundations.
• Assist with the planning, organizing and execution of fundraising events that align with the YMCA’s mission and annual development goals.

Donor Engagement & Stewardship:

• Create and manage a donor engagement program that fosters lasting relationships, donor satisfaction, and long-term giving.
• Oversee donor recognition and appreciation activities to ensure meaningful and timely acknowledgment of gifts.
• Provide personalized stewardship plans for major donors and legacy society members.

Foundation & Grant Management:

• Identify and research foundation grant opportunities that align with organizational goals.
• Oversee preparation, submission, and reporting of grant proposals, ensuring compliance with funder requirements.
• Track and evaluate grant outcomes to demonstrate impact and maintain strong relationships with funding partners.

Annual Campaign & Branch Engagement:

• Create and implement highly organized Branch Campaigns in partnership with the Association and Branch Boards, volunteers, staff, program participants and members, all working collaboratively to reach a specific goal, as defined by the Association operating budget.
• Maintain a visible and collaborative presence across YMCA branches to support fundraising efforts and deepen member-donor connections.
• Create and distribute impact reports and donor communications that highlight mission delivery and campaign progress.
• Collaborate with program staff monthly to source meaningful stories and visuals that demonstrate the mission in action and strengthen donor connection.
• Support the creation of compelling donor communications by gathering program data, participant stories, and outcomes to highlight impact across campaigns and initiatives.

Data & Systems Management:

• Ensure accurate and comprehensive donor and prospect records are maintained in the organization’s fundraising database.
• Use data analytics to inform decision-making, track fundraising performance, and identify new opportunities for growth.
• Collaborate with Marketing Department to manage the Association’s website to ensure accuracy, relevance and alignment with branding and messaging standards.
• Ensure that donor, program and organizational information is current and effectively presented online.  Monitor website analytics to evaluate engagement and strengthen online giving, visibility and communication strategies.

Leadership & Team Development:

• Supervise, mentor, and develop the fundraising and development team to achieve departmental goals and professional growth.
• Establish performance metrics and accountability measures for staff and volunteers involved in fundraising.
• Work closely with the CEO, Board of Directors, and Development Committee to engage them in fundraising activities and donor relationships.

Community & Mission Representation:

• Serve as a visible ambassador of the YMCA in the community, representing the organization at events, meetings, and public functions.
• Build partnerships with civic leaders, businesses, and community organizations to enhance philanthropic support and visibility.

Compliance & Best Practices:

• Ensure adherence to ethical fundraising practices, legal requirements, and YMCA policies.
• Maintain confidentiality and integrity in all donor interactions and data management.

Benefits Include:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance (with employer contribution)
• 100% Employer Paid: Life Insurance, Short & Long Term Disability
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Accident Insurance
• Critical Illness Coverage
• 12% Employer Contribution to the YMCA Retirement Fund
• Phone and Auto Allowance