Chief Development Officer (CDO)

Chief Development Officer (CDO)

Department: Development

Reports To: Chief Executive Officer

Classification: Full Time, Exempt

Direct Reports: Development staff, external vendors, and consultants

Work Location: 1550 Crystal Drive, Alexandria, VA 22202

Position Level: Executive

Salary Range: $175,000 – $205,000 annually (commensurate with experience and internal equity)

Location: 1550 Crystal Drive, Alexandria, VA (Hybrid) with regular onsite presence required.

Travel Requirement: Up to 30–40% domestic travel; may increase during active campaigns or peak fundraising periods.

Position Summary

The Chief Development Officer (CDO) is responsible for planning, directing, and overseeing all fundraising and development activities for the Air & Space Forces Aid Society (AFAS). This executive role provides strategic and operational leadership for philanthropic revenue generation, donor engagement, and development operations in support of AFAS’s mission to assist Airmen and Guardians.

The CDO serves as a key member of the executive leadership team and collaborates closely with the CEO, Board of Trustees, and Development Committee to ensure sustainable growth, diversify revenue sources, and steward donors at all levels. This position includes both strategic oversight and direct involvement in major and principal gift fundraising.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Development Strategy and Planning

• Develop and implement short- and long-term fundraising strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Establish annual fundraising plans, revenue targets, and performance metrics.
• Monitor progress toward goals and adjust strategies as needed.
• Lead planning and execution of organization-wide fundraising initiatives, including comprehensive or capital campaigns.

Fundraising and Donor Relations

• Manage a personal portfolio of major and principal gift prospects and donors.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward individual, corporate, and foundation donors.
• Oversee donor stewardship practices to ensure timely and meaningful engagement.
• Ensure compliance with donor intent, ethical fundraising standards, and applicable regulations.

Board and Executive Collaboration

• Partner with the CEO and Board of Trustees on fundraising strategy and donor engagement.
• Staff the Board Development Committee, including meeting preparation, reporting, and follow-up.
• Provide strategic guidance to Board members and senior leaders in fundraising activities.

Team and Operational Leadership

• Lead, supervise, and develop the development team, including performance management.
• Oversee development operations, systems, processes, and donor data management.
• Manage relationships with consultants, vendors, and fundraising partners.
• Ensure coordination across major gifts, annual giving, events, and communications.

Organizational and External Engagement

• Collaborate with internal departments to align fundraising with program priorities and messaging.
• Represent AFAS with donors, partners, and external stakeholders.
• Support partnerships with military leadership, affiliated organizations, and community groups.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive nonprofit fundraising or development leadership.
• Demonstrated success securing major/principal gifts and leading fundraising initiatives or campaigns.
• Proven experience leading and mentoring professional staff and managing external partners.
• Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability and willingness to travel domestically as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Deep knowledge of nonprofit fundraising principles and donor stewardship best practices.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate goals into actionable development plans.
• Strong interpersonal and executive‑level communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, exercise sound judgment, and meet deadlines.
• High level of discretion when handling sensitive and confidential information.

Equal Employment Opportunity and ADA Statement

Air & Space Forces Aid Society is an equal opportunity employer and complies with applicable federal and state employment laws, including the Virginia Human Rights Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.

Disclaimer

This job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities or qualifications.