Chief Development Officer

We’re looking for a visionary fundraising leader to help shape the future of philanthropy in Eastern Connecticut.

The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut is seeking a Chief Development Officer to lead our fund development strategy and deepen the relationships that make lasting community impact possible across the 42 towns we serve.

This is an opportunity for an experienced development professional to bring bold thinking, trusted relationship-building, and a deep commitment to community into a senior leadership role. Reporting to the President & CEO, the Chief Development Officer will guide efforts to grow the Foundation’s endowment through major gifts, planned giving, annual appeals, grants, and strategic donor engagement.

In this role, you will:

• Build and steward meaningful relationships with donors, prospects, professional advisors, trustees, corporations, foundations, and community partners.
• Lead a comprehensive donor relations strategy that advances ambitious fundraising goals and strengthens long-term philanthropic investment.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to donors seeking to align their charitable goals with pressing community needs.
• Champion planned giving, major gifts, annual appeals, grants, and strategic development systems.
• Represent the Foundation as an ambassador and advocate for philanthropy throughout Eastern Connecticut.
• Provide supportive leadership to the Director of Development and Director of Donor Relations.

The ideal candidate will bring:

• 5-10 years of senior-level development or nonprofit leadership experience, including success in closing major gifts of $100,000 or more.
• Deep knowledge of philanthropic trends, donor-advised funds, complex gifts, and planned giving strategies.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, writing, and relationship-building skills.
• A collaborative leadership style and the ability to inspire colleagues, trustees, committee members, donors, and community partners.
• A strong commitment to helping people translate generosity into lasting local impact.

Employment benefits at the Community Foundation include:

• 10% employer contribution to a 403(b) plan
• 24 days of PTO and 12 paid holidays
• Individual medical, dental, and vision – 90% employer-paid
• Employer-paid Short and Long-term Disability and Life Insurance

If you are energized by mission-driven work, passionate about building enduring relationships, and ready to help grow resources for the people and communities of Eastern Connecticut, we would love to hear from you.

Join us in strengthening philanthropy, expanding opportunity, and investing in a thriving Eastern Connecticut.

Contact: 860-442-3572 | admin@cfect.org