Job DescriptionThe Chief Advancement Officer (CAO) is a senior executive leader responsible for advancing the Agency's mission through philanthropic growth, enterprise business oversight, and strategic external engagement. Reporting directly to the President and CEO, the CAO leads a comprehensive revenue strategy that includes fundraising, grants, marketing and communications, and mission-aligned enterprise/business growth initiatives.
This role is ideal for an innovative, relationship-driven executive who thrives at the intersection of fund development, earned revenue, and organizational sustainability.
Key ResponsibilitiesRevenue & Growth Strategy- Lead the development and execution of a multi-year strategy to grow contributed, earned, and enterprise-based revenue.
- Oversee all fundraising efforts, including major gifts, annual giving, corporate and foundation relations, grants, public funding, special events, and donor stewardship.
- Identify, evaluate, and advance mission-aligned enterprise or business opportunities that diversify and strengthen organizational revenue.
- Ensure all revenue-generating strategies align with the Agency's mission, values, and long-term goals.
Enterprise Business Oversight- Provide executive oversight of the Agency's enterprise and earned-income activities.
- Partner with finance and operations leadership to ensure enterprise initiatives are financially sound, scalable, and compliant.
- Establish performance metrics and reporting systems to track enterprise growth, profitability, and impact.
- Promote innovation and entrepreneurial thinking across revenue-generating functions.
Marketing, Communications & Brand- Lead marketing, communications, and public relations strategies that elevate organizational visibility and reputation.
- Oversee brand messaging across fundraising, enterprise, and community engagement efforts.
- Serve as a key spokesperson alongside the President/CEO when appropriate.
Leadership & Governance- Recruit, lead, and develop a high-performing advancement and enterprise team.
- Establish clear goals, performance expectations, and professional development opportunities.
- Serve as staff liaison to the Board Development Committee.
- Partner with the Board to strengthen fundraising, enterprise growth, and organizational sustainability.
Required Qualifications- Master's degree in Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, Social Services, Education, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
- At least six (6) years of progressively responsible senior leadership experience in advancement, fundraising, enterprise development, business operations, or related fields.
- Demonstrated success managing complex revenue portfolios that include both philanthropy and earned income.
Preferred Skills & Attributes- Strong business and financial acumen, with experience overseeing revenue-generating operations or social enterprise initiatives.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and CRM/donor management systems (e.g., Raiser's Edge NXT or similar).
- Exceptional relationship-building and communication skills.
- Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Proven people leader who motivates, develops, and retains high-performing teams.
- Adaptable, emotionally intelligent, and comfortable working with diverse stakeholders.
- Willingness to travel locally and regionally for donor, partner, and business development activities.
