Chief Advancement Officer

Summary:

The Chief Advancement Officer (CAO) is a senior executive who leads the Conservation League’s advancement strategy, including but not limited to: fundraising, resource development, communications, and marketing.  This role involves crafting and executing comprehensive strategies to enhance the organization’s visibility, donor engagement and stewardship, and overall fundraising efforts. The CAO will oversee collaborative development and communications efforts that align advancement activities with the organization’s mission, vision, and goals.  The CAO is a strategic leader responsible for overseeing the Advancement Department, including the Development and Communications teams. 

Essential Functions:

• Develop and implement integrated advancement strategies that align with the organization’s mission and strategic plan.
• Serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, contributing to organizational strategy and decision-making.
• Oversee the Communications and Development teams, fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment.
• Design and implement a strategic fundraising plan to meet annual and long-term financial goals.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with major donors, foundations, corporate partners, and other funding sources.
• Oversee the planning and execution of fundraising events, campaigns, and initiatives.
• Ensure effective donor stewardship and recognition programs to enhance donor retention and engagement.
• Identify and pursue new funding opportunities, including grants and sponsorships.
• Support and partner with the Executive Director (ED) and board members on all major fundraising initiatives.
• Actively work with the ED to develop and implement a comprehensive development strategy, including corporate, foundation, and government grants.
• Oversee research funding sources and trends to help position the organization ahead of major funding changes or trends.
• Oversee the creation and execution of a comprehensive communications plan to promote the organization’s mission, programs, and impact.
• Ensure consistent and effective messaging across all communication channels, including social media, website, newsletters, press releases, and marketing materials.
• Oversee the production of high-quality content that resonates with diverse audiences, including donors, partners, and the general public.
• Collaborate with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to develop and implement the organization’s financial strategy.
• Monitor and report regularly on the progress of the development and communications programs.
• Other duties as assigned.

Authorities:

• Responsible for managing the Directors of the Communications and Development teams.
• Develop and manage the budget for the Advancement programs.

Competencies:

• Expertise in securing major gifts and fundraising.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and inspire diverse stakeholders.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and ethical standards.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities.
• Proficiency in fundraising software and communication tools.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Passion for environmental conservation and the organization’s mission.
• Collaborative and inclusive leadership style.
• Innovative mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field is required.  
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in nonprofit advancement and communications, including leadership roles in development.
• Proven track record of successful fundraising and donor relations, including securing major gifts and managing capital campaigns.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE).
• Graduate degree in organizational development or a behavioral science.
• Experience in environmental conservation or related fields.

Work Environment

The position operates in a professional office environment located in Charleston, SC. 

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, use hands, and climb stairs.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Travel

Regular travel across the region will be required.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Company paid life, short term and long term disability
• Amazing retirement plan
• Generous Time Off Plan