Description
Chief Development and Strategy Officer
Position Summary:
The Chief Development and Strategy Officer (CDSO) is a key member of the Executive Leadership Team and reports directly to the CEO. This role is responsible for driving the organization’s long-term growth and sustainability by leading strategy, business development, philanthropic partnerships, revenue diversification, and policy engagement. The CDSO oversees the Development, Advocacy, and Community Engagement functions through leadership of the Partners in Action Division.
The CDSO cultivates innovation, develops external partnerships, and ensures LSS is positioned as a leader and collaborator in the philanthropic, public policy, and social services space. He/she advises the CEO and Executive Team regarding emerging opportunities, policy trends, and strategic positioning. As the primary architect of revenue strategy that focuses on long-term goals and sustainability, the CDSO leads complex initiatives, strengthens institutional fundraising, and ensures alignment across all growth-oriented functions.
Key Responsibilities & Weighting
Strategic Leadership & Planning – 30%
Identify and pursue new mission-aligned opportunities that support organizational growth and innovation.
Cultivate relationships with government agencies, philanthropic institutions, and partners to explore collaborative initiatives.
Guide the development of proposals and partnership models that advance financial sustainability and service impact.
Collaborate with executive colleagues to assess feasibility and ensure cross-functional readiness for new initiatives.
Oversight of Partners in Action – Development, Advocacy, and Community Engagement – 20%
Directly supervise senior staff overseeing Development, Advocacy, and Volunteer Engagement.
Ensure collaboration across teams to align fundraising, advocacy, and community engagement strategies.
Foster a high-performing culture focused on accountability, innovation, and impact.
Represent LSS externally with funders, community groups, and partner organizations.
Revenue Strategy, Fundraising, and Donor Engagement – 15%
Set ambitious development and philanthropic revenue goals in partnership with the Development Director.
Lead high-level donor and funder engagement, particularly with foundations and corporate investors.
Guide the design and implementation of comprehensive fundraising campaigns and donor cultivation strategies.
Ensure systems are in place for donor stewardship, data management, and performance evaluation.
Government Relations and Policy Advocacy – 25%
Drive the organization’s public policy agenda in partnership with the Board Advocacy Committee.
Serve as the organization’s senior representative on policy matters.
Ensure active engagement in coalitions and advocacy efforts relevant to the organization’s mission.
Maintain relationships with elected officials, government leaders, and policy influencers.
External Relations, Volunteer Strategy, and Community Partnerships – 5%
Build strategic alliances that expand visibility, impact, and funding opportunities.
Cultivate meaningful opportunities for volunteer involvement in coordination with program leadership.
Promote a culture of community engagement and public service.
Reporting & Executive Collaboration – 5%
Provide regular updates to the CEO and Board of Directors on progress toward funding and strategic goals.
Partner with the CFO to align financial forecasting with revenue strategy.
Serve as a core member of the executive team, shaping LSS’s strategic direction.
Requirements
Qualifications
10+ years of senior leadership in nonprofit fundraising, government or philanthropic partnerships, policy strategy, or business development.
Demonstrated success in securing major gifts, institutional support, and strategic partnerships.
Experience negotiating and managing high-value initiatives across sectors.
Skilled at managing cross-functional teams and aligning diverse stakeholders.
Strong financial acumen and understanding of nonprofit and governmental funding environments.
Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Public Administration, Social Work, Nonprofit Management, or related field strongly preferred.
Preferred Competencies
Strategic, mission-driven thinker with a bold vision for impact.
Executive presence and exceptional relationship-building skills.
Ability to balance high-level strategy with operational implementation.
Passion for advancing social justice, human services, and community-based solutions.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
