Description:
The Chief Development Officer (CDO) plays a pivotal role in shaping the future trajectory of Vitalant's philanthropic endeavors. With a focus on strategic leadership, collaboration, and fostering meaningful relationships, the CDO spearheads the formulation and execution of philanthropic strategies for the Vitalant Foundation. Collaborating closely with senior leadership, the CDO assesses and refines development programs to bolster Vitalant's mission. Central to the position is the organization and supervision of philanthropic endeavors and grant solicitations. The CDO also partners with the Foundation Board of Directors to cultivate sustained funding opportunities, prioritizing Vitalant's critical objectives and enhancing its community presence. Success is measured by the ability to secure substantial financial support, drive strategic initiatives such as planned giving campaigns, elevate Vitalant's profile in local communities, and cultivate meaningful relationships with potential sponsors and donors.
From developing comprehensive fund development plans to nurturing partnerships for sustained research activities, the CDO embodies Vitalant's commitment to making a tangible difference in people's lives. Through these efforts, the CDO reinforces the crucial role that philanthropy plays in advancing Vitalant's mission and saving lives.
- Provides strategic leadership to the Foundation team, fostering collaboration with the Board of Directors to drive forward the organization's philanthropic vision.
- Collaborates with the Foundation Board of Directors to curate board meeting materials, presentations, and communications, ensuring the Board is well-informed and engaged in all initiatives.
- Works in tandem with the Foundation Board of Directors, Vitalant Board of Trustees, and Senior Management to pinpoint significant opportunities for the Foundation to amplify and extend its mission in supporting operational needs.
- Constructs comprehensive fund development plans and compelling case statements to underpin Vitalant's operational and research endeavors.
- Recruits and supervises Development Directors tasked with supporting various facets of Vitalant's operations, including Blood Services, Clinical Services, Biotherapies, and Research. Ensures the continuous renewal of fund development plans supported by updated case statements that advocate for operational and research activities.
- Establishes and nurtures a robust philanthropy program for the Vitalant Research Institute, geared towards sustaining non-grant/contract research priorities in applicable areas. This includes forging partnerships and fostering major gift opportunities to sustain long-term research activities.
- Devises and implements strategies and tactics to identify relationships and business opportunities that align with the Foundation's goals and objectives, all while ensuring adherence to its mission.
- Collaborates closely with the Vitalant Chief Financial Officer to maintain a robust control environment, resulting in the meticulous and accurate financial reporting of gifts received. Supports the completion of an annual external audit, with findings reported to the Vitalant Board of Trustees.
- Ensures strict compliance with all federal and state charitable registration requirements.
- Cultivates strong relationships with prospective donors, community members, and business leaders to advance Vitalant's philanthropic mission.
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- Experience in foundation/fundraising practices required.
- Ten years of progressively responsible management experience required.
- Five years of foundation management experience required.
- Experience in healthcare philanthropy preferred.
- CFRE (Certified Fund-Raising Executive) certification.