Chief Development Officer - AtlantiCare

POSITION SUMMARY

The Chief Development Officer (CDO) is a key executive role responsible for spearheading the organization’s philanthropic initiatives, ensuring alignment with its mission and long-term strategic goals. Collaborating closely with the President & CEO, the Foundation Board of Trustees, and senior leaders, the CDO will design and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies to secure significant philanthropic support. This role requires a strong vision and the proven ability to cultivate and maintain relationships with high-level donors, board members, and community constituents, while fostering a culture of philanthropy throughout the organization.

In addition to driving fundraising efforts, the CDO will oversee the development team, ensuring the implementation of best practices and optimizing the use of data and technology to enhance results. The CDO will also manage the Foundation’s financial resources with fiscal responsibility, maintaining a balanced ratio of expenses to funds raised. This role requires a strategic communicator capable of crafting compelling narratives that highlight the impact of philanthropy on AtlantiCare’s ability to deliver exceptional healthcare services.

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION:

Bachelor’s degree is required. Masters degree preferred.

LICENSE/CERTIFICATION:

Certification in fundraising (CFRE) or other similar credentials strongly preferred. Valid driver's license required.

EXPERIENCE:

* A minimum of 10 years in progressively responsible leadership roles within development, with a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of fundraising, including individual, institutional, and planned giving, stewardship, and board relations.

* At least five years of supervisory experience, including the management of budgets and a proven track record of developing and leading high-performing teams.

* Experience in a healthcare environment, particularly with grateful patient programs, is strongly preferred.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:

* Expertise in creating and implementing strategic fundraising plans and the ability to secure major and principal gifts.

* Proficiency in donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship, with a history of successfully managing relationships with high-level donors and stakeholders.

* Strong leadership and organizational skills, with the ability to set and achieve measurable goals.

* Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, including the ability to craft compelling narratives and effectively present to diverse audiences.

* A strategic and analytical mindset with a deep understanding of data-driven decision-making and modern data management practices.

* A collaborative and diplomatic approach to leadership, with the ability to engage and inspire both internal teams and external partners.

* Commitment to continuous improvement and a strong work ethic, with the ability to adapt to a fast-paced, high-expectation environment.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Leadership and Strategy:

* Collaborate with the Presidente & CEO as well as Foundation team to set and refine fundraising priorities across annual, mid-range, and long-term goals.

* Develop and implement operational plans to achieve these goals, with a focus on securing philanthropic support from both individual and institutional donors.

* Serve as the administrator for the Foundations Board and guides the development of the Foundation’s five-year strategic plan.

* Act as the primary liaison between the Foundation and the administrative and clinical leaders, fostering a culture of philanthropy throughout the organization.

Prospect Development, Donor Relations, and Stewardship:

* Lead donor cultivation and solicitation efforts, coordinating with senior leaders and volunteers to maximize fundraising opportunities.

* Manage a portfolio of key donors, ensuring strategic engagement and stewardship to secure significant gifts.

* Oversee the Prospect Research and Management function, ensuring the identification, assignment, and tracking of potential donors.

* Collaborate with departments to support system-wide fundraising initiatives.

* Direct the Foundation’s communication strategies, ensuring consistent and effective messaging to all constituents.

* Oversee the planning and execution of Foundation events, aligning them with broader fundraising goals.

Management:

* Recruit, train, and manage a talented team, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

* Oversee the Foundation’s financial management, including budget planning, expense control, and the prudent management of endowment and other funds.

* Manage a large volunteer organization, including the Women’s Association, ensuring their activities align with the Foundation’s objectives.

* Other:

* Provide regular reports on the Foundation’s progress to the President & CEO and Board of Trustees.

* Benchmark Foundation activities against peer institutions and industry trends to ensure best practices.

* Undertake additional responsibilities as assigned to support the Foundation’s mission.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position requires sitting at a desk or computer a majority of the day, with frequent speaking, reaching, and reading. This position requires occasional lifting up to 20 lbs.

The above statements reflect the general details considered necessary to describe the principle functions of the job as identified and shall not be considered as a detailed description of all work requirements that may be inherent in the position.

Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled