Position Overview 

The Chief Development Officer (CDO) of Food Finders Food Bank serves as a member of the executive leadership team and is responsible for leading and managing the organization's fundraising, marketing, and external relations strategies. The CDO works closely with the President/CEO and the Board of Directors to ensure sustainable funding and robust community engagement, driving the mission to alleviate hunger in our community. 

Areas of Responsibility: 

Strategic Leadership and Planning 

• Develop and implement comprehensive fundraising and development strategies to meet organizational goals. 

• Collaborate with the CEO and Board to align development, marketing and communication activities with the overall mission and strategic plan. 

• Provide leadership and direction to the development team, fostering a culture of collaboration and high performance. 

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Fundraising and Donor Relations 

• Lead all fundraising initiatives, including major gifts, annual campaigns, grants, and special events. 

• Cultivate and steward relationships with major donors, corporate partners, and foundations. 

• Ensure effective donor recognition programs and communications to enhance donor retention and engagement. 

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External Relations and Community Engagement 

• Lead the development of marketing and external relations strategies to enhance Food Finders 's visibility and reputation in the community. 

• Oversee the planning and execution of events that engage the community and support fundraising efforts. 

• Serve as a spokesperson, as needed, for the organization at public events, media engagements, and community forums. 

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Management and Staff Development 

• Supervise and mentor the Director of Development and the Manager of Marketing & Communication, ensuring their professional growth and success. 

• Lead team through an aspirational vision, clear processes, and a proactive, can-do attitude; prioritize and engage staff around key objectives necessary to achieve organization goals. 

• Facilitate regular team meetings and performance reviews to assess progress and address any challenges. 

• Promote a positive and inclusive work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation. 

Core Competencies: 

Leadership: Ability to inspire, motivate, and guide team members towards achieving organizational goals. 

Strategic Thinking: Proficiency in developing and implementing long-term plans that align with the organization's mission. 

Fundraising Expertise: Demonstrated success in diverse fundraising activities, including major gifts, annual fund, grants, and events. 

Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively represent the organization. 

Relationship Building: Skill in cultivating and maintaining relationships with donors, partners, and community stakeholders. 

Project Management: Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely and successful completion. 

Analytical Skills: Proficiency in analyzing data to inform strategic decisions and measure the effectiveness of development efforts. 

Education, Licensing, and Certification Requirements: 

Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Communications, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred. 

Minimum of 7 years of senior management experience; strong ability to interface with all members of leadership and the Board of Directors as needed. 

• A proven track record for success in managing teams, securing major gifts and leading fundraising initiatives. 

• AIB - Advanced FS Manager (Provided by Food Finders) 

• An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.