Development Director

Exciting Opportunity - Lead Fundraising Innovation at College Housing Northwest!

Are you a seasoned fundraising professional passionate about creating tangible change? Do you thrive on building meaningful relationships and driving strategic growth? College Housing Northwest (CHNW) seeks a visionary Development Director to elevate our mission of providing affordable, supportive housing for college students—particularly those under-resourced and housing insecure.

This is more than a job; it’s a chance to be a catalyst for transformation. As our first Development Director, you’ll lead CHNW’s next chapter—diversifying revenue streams, expanding our donor base, and strengthening our community presence beyond public funding. This roll-up-your-sleeves role is ideal for an experienced fund development professional with proven solicitation experience and relationship-building skills who is ready to lead and shine.

Until 2021, CHNW operated as a self-funded nonprofit. We are now making a strategic investment in this role to support the next phase of our mission—building a stronger, more sustainable development program. In its early stages, the Development Director will focus on establishing a robust portfolio of donors and partners as the primary driver of new revenue. Over time, this role will evolve to oversee additional staff and infrastructure, scaling the development efforts in tandem with our organizational growth.

If you’re innovative, strategic, and committed to social impact, this role is designed for you!

About CHNW

Founded in 1969, CHNW, has revolutionized student living by providing affordable, secure and community-driven housing in Portland. As a leading not-for-profit organization, we are dedicated to creating vibrant, inclusive environments where students can thrive academically, personally, and socially. Our innovative approach blends modern amenities with a supportive community, empowering students to reach their full potential without the burden of overwhelming costs. Join us in shaping the future of student housing—where diversity, growth, and opportunity meet.

What You’ll Do

Drive Impact: Play the

primary role in increasing support for students striving to earn their postsecondary credentials.

Lead Strategically: Develop and execute a forward-thinking fundraising plan, and annual campaigns to meet ambitious growth targets.

Identify Engage & Grow: Cultivate and manage a portfolio of prospects and partners, supporting staff and board with innovative engagement strategies.

Tell Compelling Stories: Create persuasive case statements and storytelling that inspire donor generosity and deepen relationships.

Expand Our Reach: Build new partnerships, increase visibility, and strengthen our funding infrastructure.

Initially through direct contact with prospective donors and over time building a development department.

Own the Mission: Oversee and execute grant programs, campaigns, and special events, ensuring all efforts align with and advance our mission.

What You'll Bring

• Over 7 years of nonprofit experience, with at least 5 years of proven fundraising success.
• Bachelor’s Degree or higher
• Proven ability to identify and foster relationships with individuals, corporations, and foundations that translate into substantial philanthropy.
• Expertise in strategic planning, budget management, and revenue growth.
• High proficiency with CRM platforms like Salesforce, along with MS Office suite.
• Passion and vision for expanding affordable housing and educational access.

Take the Lead in Changing Lives.

This is your opportunity to join an evolving organization at a critical juncture—shaping and leading our fundraising efforts to increase support for under-resourced students and expand our impact. If you’re a strategic, growth-minded fundraiser ready to take on a leadership role that makes a difference, CHNW offers a dynamic environment to grow your career and help transform lives.

Why Join Our Team?

• 15 days of paid vacation time (one additional day of vacation accrual each year)
• 11 paid holidays and generous paid sick leave
• Medical/Dental/Vision, with CHNW covering 90% of the premiums
• $300 annual Wellness benefit
• $500 annual Flexible Spending Account, paid by CHNW
• Monthly cell phone stipend
• 401(k) with 5% company match after only 6 months
• Life and AD&D insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Paid Community Involvement leave
• Paid Education leave

College Housing Northwest is proud to be committed to hiring a diverse and inclusive workforce that drives innovation and opens access to various perspectives, ideas, and backgrounds. As part of our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workforce, College Housing Northwest provides equal employment opportunities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, genetic background, or any characteristic that is protected by applicable local, state, or federal laws.

• 15 days of paid vacation time (one additional day of vacation accrual each year)
• 11 paid holidays and generous paid sick leave
• Medical/Dental/Vision, with CHNW covering 90% of the premiums
• $300 annual Wellness benefit
• $500 annual Flexible Spending Account, paid by CHNW
• Monthly cell phone stipend
• 401(k) with 5% company match after only 6 months
• Life and AD&D insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Paid Community Involvement leave
• Paid Education leave