Chief Development Officer

Requisition # : req14514

Salary Range: $185,000-$205,000

Location: Grand Rapids, MI or Atlanta, GA Area Preferred

Hours: Full-time (40 hours/week)

At Bethany Christian Services, we believe families provide the strongest foundation for care and connection. That's why we focus on strengthening and empowering families, always advocating for family-centered solutions to keep children safe. Our work began in 1944 with the care of a single child. Today, inspired by our faith, our aim is to demonstrate the love and compassion of Jesus in our services for children, youth, and families. Working at Bethany means joining a team of nearly 2,000 dedicated professionals with diverse skills, serving communities across the country. Together, we’re united in our mission and these shared values: we’re motivated by our faith, we support one another, we champion justice, we pursue excellence, and we’re in it for the long haul.

The Chief Development Officer (CDO) will develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to support our mission of demonstrating the love and compassion of Jesus Christ by protecting children, empowering youth, and strengthening families through exceptional social services nationwide. This executive role oversees all fundraising aspects, including major gifts, planned giving, annual fund, campaigns, special events, and grant writing. Will possess a solid faith walk and demonstrate strong spiritual formation as a leader, ensuring that all efforts align with our core values and mission. Will enhance Bethany’s visibility, impact, and financial resources through building quality relationships.

This position is expected to function effectively with moderate supervision while following the guidelines given on procedures, along with agency, federal, and state regulatory requirements.

Essential Job Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive donor engagement strategy that includes identifying and cultivating individual, corporate, and foundation donors;
• Work collaboratively with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to develop and implement Bethany Christian Services financial strategy;
• Lead and manage all aspects of the fundraising program, including major gifts, planned giving, annual fund, campaigns, special events, and grants;
• Collaborate with the CEO and Board of Directors to set fundraising goals and strategies aligned with the business;
• Develop and lead a faith-driven, high-performing development team, providing mentorship and professional development opportunities;
• Encourage commitment to the mission, vision, and values, inspiring the team to achieve extraordinary results in line with the organization's business goals;
• Promote a collaborative, accountable, and results-oriented team culture;
• Authentically embody Bethany’s values and ensure the team does the same;
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with key donors, ensuring effective stewardship and recognition;
• Develop and implement strategies to engage and retain donors, including personalized communication and impact reporting;
• Maintain and nurture your own mega-major donor portfolio;
• Collaborate closely with the marketing team to develop a marketing strategy that aligns with the Bethany brand and supports donor engagement efforts in line with business goals and objectives;
• Make recommendations that drive significant business impact both short-term and long-term;
• Leverage data and analytics to shape fundraising strategies and measure their effectiveness;
• Monitor, analyze, and report on fundraising performance, delivering regular updates to the CEO, Executive Leadership Team, and Board of Directors;
• Seek out opportunities and represent Bethany Christian Services at community events, conferences, and other public forums to enhance visibility and influence;
• Develop and implement strategies to raise awareness of the organization’s mission and impact;
• Perform other duties as assigned.
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record of successfully leading and managing comprehensive fundraising programs.
• Strong network of contacts and donor prospects.
• Strong leadership and team management skills that align with Bethany’s values.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in fundraising software and CRM systems.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Bethany Christian Services.
• Computer skills sufficient to perform essential functions including knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite;
• Must be 21 years old with a valid driver’s license with at least 3 years of driving experience in the U.S. to operate a vehicle on behalf of Bethany;
• Must pass a Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) check and maintain a reliable vehicle with proof of adequate insurance coverage;
• Pass a criminal history screen, including state and local child protection agency registries;
• Subscription to and integration of the agency Statement of Faith, Mission Statement, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Commitment.