YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg · 1 day ago
Chief Development Officer, YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg
The YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg seeks a seasoned and strategic Chief Development Officer (CDO) to lead all philanthropic, fundraising and resource development efforts for the association. The CDO provides vision, leadership, and oversight for a comprehensive fundraising program that advances the YMCA's mission and long-term sustainability.
Health Wellness & Fitness
Responsibilities
Provide strategic leadership for organizational fundraising goals and multi-year development plans, balancing long-term vision with near-term priorities; oversee systems, resources, and the financial development budget
Personally engage, cultivate, solicit, and steward donors and prospects, with a primary focus on major and principal gift relationships
Lead and continuously strengthen the association-wide annual campaign, expanding the donor and volunteer base, elevating volunteer confidence, and advancing a compelling case for support
Direct and supervise all aspects of the Financial Development Department, ensuring alignment with YMCA objectives and best practices across all functions
Solicit contributions on behalf of the organization; ensure accurate tracking of gifts and pledges by source and purpose; and provide timely reporting, metrics, and progress updates
Act as a key advisor to the President/CEO, aligning and guiding volunteers and staff leadership in the development and execution of effective philanthropic fundraising strategies and best practices
Lead endowment and planned giving strategies, and partner with the CEO and CFO to monitor endowment performance and the appropriate use of earnings
Ensure strong data management, reporting, and stewardship practices that reflect the YMCA's commitment to accountability and donor trust
Develop and oversee donor recognition and stewardship strategies, ensuring consistent practices across all branches in collaboration with the Board, CEO, and leadership team
Convene and support development-related committees, providing clear direction, education, training, and compliance oversight
Identify, recruit, and prepare board members and volunteers to participate effectively in fundraising and donor engagement activities
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree required; minimum of seven years of progressive professional fundraising experience, preferably in the YMCA or a related nonprofit environment
Demonstrated experience across a full range of fundraising disciplines, including annual giving, major gifts, grants, planned giving, special events, and capital or comprehensive campaigns
Proven record of fundraising success, including strong influencing and relationship-building skills
Experience working effectively with senior executives, board members, volunteers, business leaders, foundation partners, and public officials
Exceptional interpersonal, organizational, and leadership skills with the ability to motivate staff and volunteers toward shared goals
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong planning and project management capabilities, and a professional, welcoming presence
Strong analytical and computer skills, with the ability to use data to inform strategy, planning, and performance
Demonstrated success engaging corporate, foundation, volunteer, and civic partners
Pass a 10-panel drug screen
Clear a Level 2 background check
Preferred
CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) or similar credential preferred
Benefits
12% employer-funded retirement plan upon eligibility
403(b) savings plan
High quality and affordable healthcare
Complimentary YMCA membership for employee and family
Generous paid time off package
Ongoing professional development opportunities
A collaborative, mission-driven leadership environment