Chief Development Officer

Position Summary

The Chief Development Officer (CDO) serves as a key member of the executive leadership team and drives the philanthropic vision, strategy development, oversight, and execution across all fundraising efforts. Reporting to the CEO, the CDO leads efforts to secure the resources necessary to expand programs and ensure the long‑term sustainability of the organization’s mission. The CDO provides strategic leadership for advancement and serves as a trusted advisor to the CEO and Board on philanthropy, revenue growth, and long‑term financial sustainability.

• Develop, lead, and execute a comprehensive, multi‑year advancement strategy aligned with the organization’s mission, strategic priorities, and long‑term sustainability goals.
• Serve as a strategic advisor to the CEO and executive leadership team on fundraising strategy and philanthropic trends.

• Partner with and lead the development team to devise and implement a comprehensive, growth‑oriented fundraising plan that supports Scouting throughout the region.

• Cultivate relationships with individuals, foundations, and corporations who share a passion for developing leaders and Scouting values.

• Lead operating and capital campaigns as well as major donor initiatives to fund program growth and infrastructure.
• Provide leadership for planned giving and endowment strategies that support long‑term financial sustainability and legacy philanthropy.

• Partner closely with the Board of Directors and key committees to advance fundraising priorities and engage volunteer leadership in donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Prepare and present advancement updates, performance reports, and strategic recommendations to the Board and senior leadership.

• Establish and oversee annual and campaign fundraising goals; manage revenue forecasting, donor pipelines, and performance reporting to ensure accountability and results.
• Ensure ethical fundraising practices, compliance with donor intent, and strong stewardship across all fundraising efforts.

• Analyze current fundraising models and develop new methods to position Greater St. Louis Area Scouting as a best‑in‑class youth development organization.
• Leverage data, analytics, and technology to strengthen donor acquisition, retention, and engagement.

• Provide oversight of advancement operations, including fundraising systems, data integrity, reporting, and policies that support effective and efficient fundraising.
• Collaborate across departments to align fundraising and engagement strategies for a cohesive donor experience.

• Recruit, develop, and retain a high‑performing advancement team, supporting professional growth and long‑term organizational capacity.
• Mentor and inspire the development team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and excellence.

• Communicate the positive impact of Scouting and youth development through compelling narratives, events, and public speaking engagements.

• Bachelor’s degree or higher.
• 10+ years of progressive fundraising experience in the nonprofit sector.
• Demonstrated success in securing major gifts and managing capital campaigns.
• Strong knowledge of the local philanthropic market.
• Successful staff leadership and supervisory experience.
• Proven understanding of donor cultivation, stewardship, and community engagement.
• Demonstrated experience partnering with boards and volunteer leaders in a complex, mission‑driven nonprofit environment.
• Strong strategic and analytical skills, including experience with fundraising metrics, forecasting, and performance reporting.
• Passion for youth empowerment, outdoor education, and the values of Scouting.

• Mission‑focused leadership
• Relationship‑building and networking excellence
• Strategic and creative fundraising vision
• Results oriented achievement in a team environment
• High integrity and commitment to Scouting

Greater St. Louis Area Scouting is an…