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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising strategies and engage with donors to support the YMCA's mission.
- Company: Join the YMCA of Greater Nashua, a community-focused organisation dedicated to strengthening spirit, mind, and body.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous time off, free YMCA membership, and a vibrant tax-free community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the community while leading a passionate team and fostering relationships.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree required; 7-10 years in fundraising or nonprofit development preferred.
- Other info: Be part of a mission-driven team that provided $1.4 million in assistance last year.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Full-Time, Exempt Position; YMCA of Greater Nashua
About Us
With four facilities and deep roots in the community, we’re committed to strengthening spirit, mind, and body for all. Located just 45 minutes from Boston, Nashua offers access to urban, coastal, and mountain adventures. It’s a vibrant place to live and work, recently named the #2 state to live in by U.S. News & World Report.
Position Summary
The Chief Development Officer (CDO) is a strategic, mission-driven leader who shapes and drives all aspects of our philanthropic strategy. As a member of the senior leadership team, the CDO oversees fundraising, donor engagement, communications, and storytelling—building a culture of philanthropy that powers the Y’s purpose.
This role requires a balance of big-picture thinking and hands-on leadership. The CDO leads a team of three development professionals and partners with staff, board members, and volunteers to cultivate relationships and expand our base of support.
Compensation And Benefits
We offer a competitive benefits package including:
- Medical and dental coverage
- Generous paid time off
- 12% retirement contribution after two years of service
- Free family YMCA membership and discounted programs
- A vibrant community with no income or sales tax in New Hampshire
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership:
- Develop and lead a comprehensive development strategy aligned with our mission and goals
- Serve as a key advisor to the CEO and Board on revenue growth and community engagement
Fundraising And Donor Engagement
- Manage all areas of fundraising: annual campaign, major gifts, planned giving, corporate/foundation support, and special events
- Personally cultivate and steward a portfolio of major donors
- Engage staff and volunteers in fundraising efforts
Capital Campaigns & Special Initiatives
- Plan and implement capital and strategic fundraising campaigns
- Partner with consultants and internal stakeholders on feasibility studies and campaign execution
Team Leadership
- Manage and develop the Financial Development team
- Foster cross-departmental collaboration with marketing, operations, and programs
Board & Volunteer Engagement
- Serve as staff liaison to the Financial Development Committee
- Equip and inspire volunteers and board members to support fundraising
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or CFRE preferred
- 7–10 years of progressive leadership experience in fundraising or nonprofit development
- Proven success with securing major gifts ($25,000+), annual campaigns, and capital campaigns
- Excellent interpersonal, storytelling, and communication skills
- Strong project management and strategic planning abilities
- YMCA or mission-based nonprofit experience is a plus
Essential Functions
- Set strategic fundraising goals and manage department operations
- Oversee donor database and stewardship systems
- Lead the design and delivery of donor recognition, volunteer appreciation, and campaign events
- Drive endowment and planned giving growth
- Support a consistent, welcoming narrative across all communications platforms
Impact Statement
The CDO is instrumental in advancing the YMCA’s mission and ensuring long-term sustainability. Their leadership will deepen community relationships, expand our donor base, and help transform more lives through achievement, relationships, and belonging.
Our Promise
Imagine going to work each day knowing you’re making a difference. At the Y, we empower individuals, support families, and unite communities. In 2024, we provided $1.4 million in financial assistance and community investment while serving more than 40,000 local residents. Join us and help create a community where everyone belongs.
Ymca Leadership Competencies
- Mission Advancement: Champion the Y’s cause and inspire others
- Collaboration: Build inclusive and effective partnerships
- Operational Effectiveness: Drive results and ensure stewardship
- Personal Growth: Embrace learning and lead with humility and courage
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Chief Development Officer employer: YMCA of Greater Nashua
Contact Detail:
YMCA of Greater Nashua Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Development Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current and former employees of the YMCA, especially those in leadership roles. They can provide valuable insights into the organisational culture and expectations for the Chief Development Officer position.
✨Tip Number 2
Attend local fundraising events or community gatherings hosted by the YMCA or similar organisations. This will help you understand their philanthropic strategies and allow you to connect with potential stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the YMCA's mission and recent initiatives. Being able to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals during interviews will demonstrate your commitment and understanding of their work.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to showcase your success stories in securing major gifts and leading fundraising campaigns. Highlighting specific examples will illustrate your capability to drive the YMCA's philanthropic strategy effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Development Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Chief Development Officer position. Understand the key responsibilities and qualifications required, as this will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also demonstrates your passion for the YMCA's mission. Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you can contribute to their philanthropic strategy.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, focus on your leadership experience in fundraising or nonprofit development. Be sure to include specific achievements, such as securing major gifts or leading successful campaigns, to showcase your capabilities.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since excellent communication skills are essential for this role, consider including a section in your application that highlights your storytelling abilities. You might want to share examples of how you've effectively engaged donors or communicated a mission-driven narrative in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at YMCA of Greater Nashua
✨Understand the YMCA's Mission
Before your interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with the YMCA's mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their commitment to strengthening spirit, mind, and body for all.
✨Showcase Your Fundraising Success
Be ready to share specific examples of your past fundraising achievements, especially those involving major gifts and capital campaigns. Highlight your strategies and the impact they had on the organisations you worked with.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Chief Development Officer, you'll need to lead a team effectively. Prepare to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams and fostered collaboration in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Strategic Questions
Expect questions about your approach to developing comprehensive fundraising strategies. Think about how you would align these strategies with the YMCA's goals and be ready to articulate your vision for the role.
