Vice President of Development - Children's Foundation

The Children’s Foundation is a grantmaking public charity committed to ensuring all children in Michigan have equitable opportunities to lead healthy lives. The Foundation is seeking a Vice President of Development to build and execute a bold, donor-centered fundraising strategy that advances its mission: to improve the physical and mental health of children in Michigan.

The Children’s Foundation has a rich philanthropic history and a $160M asset base. The Foundation is launching an ambitious 10‑year plan to scale its impact and deepen its commitment to whole‑child health. Over the past two years, the Foundation has increased its endowed assets by more than $25 million, setting the stage for transformative growth.

Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Design and lead a comprehensive development strategy aligned with the Foundation’s 10‑year Sustainable Revenue Plan
• Architect long‑term fundraising campaigns and mobilize philanthropic resources
• Collaborate with the CEO, Board of Trustees, and executive team to align priorities and messaging

Major & Planned Giving

• Lead major gift fundraising and stewardship of high‑net‑worth donors, foundations, and corporate partners
• Support complex gifts and legacy giving strategies in partnership with the CEO and finance team

Fund Development Programs

• Grow endowed assets and steward Children’s Hospital of Michigan (CHM) Funds
• Expand tailored philanthropic services and nonprofit endowments
• Engage professional advisors and planned giving partners across Michigan

Team Management & Board Engagement

• Lead and mentor a high‑performing Development team
• Represent the Foundation at community and national philanthropy events

• Bachelor’s degree required; CFRE certification or advanced degree preferred
• Minimum 10 years of progressive leadership experience in endowment fundraising, planned giving, and campaign strategy
• Proven success in major gifts and donor engagement
• Experience working with Boards, financial advisors, and cross‑functional teams
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Deep commitment to children’s health, equity, and community‑based philanthropy
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment

• Salary Range: $175,000–$200,000 annually. We’re open to considering candidates slightly above the range for exceptional experience.
• Benefits Package: Comprehensive coverage, including a 401(k) plan with employer match.
• Time Off: Generous vacation, paid holidays, sick days and paid parental leave.
• Insurance: Employer‑paid short‑ and long‑term disability coverage.

If you are a strategic fundraising leader who is passionate about improving children’s health and equity across Michigan, we invite you to apply for the Vice President of Development role at The Children’s Foundation.

The Children’s Foundation is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. The Children’s Foundation does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other classification protected by law.