Chief Development Officer
The Chief Development Officer (CDO) is a key member of the executive leadership team and is responsible for the vision, strategy, and high-level execution of Ascendigo's fundraising and donor engagement efforts. The CDO leads fundraising initiatives across major gifts, donor cultivation, annual giving, grants, planned giving, and special events, while also guiding marketing and communications strategies that strengthen Ascendigo's visibility and philanthropic brand.
The CDO will cultivate strong relationships with major donors, board members, foundation partners, and the wider community. Working in close collaboration with the CEO, board, and development team, the CDO ensures that Ascendigo achieves and exceeds its revenue goals while building a culture of philanthropy across the organization.
Key Responsibilities
Fundraising & Donor Cultivation
Marketing & Communication
Leadership & Team Development
Qualifications
Minimum of 10 years' experience in nonprofit fundraising, including 5+ years in a senior leadership role.
Proven track record of securing major gifts and building long-term donor relationships.
Demonstrated success in fundraising campaign strategy, including capital or comprehensive campaigns.
Experience with grants, special events, planned giving, direct mail, and digital fundraising.
Strong leadership, management, and team-building experience.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship management skills.
Knowledge of donor databases / CRM systems, plus Microsoft Office suite.
Bachelor's degree in a related field required; master's degree preferred.
Experience in the intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) or healthcare sector preferred.
Willingness to work evenings and weekends as needed for donor events and cultivation activities.
Must meet legal, background check, and driving requirements per Ascendigo policies.
Occasional evenings and weekends are required to accommodate meetings, on-call shifts, and special events.
In addition,
Must be 21 or over and have legal working status.
Must maintain a valid driver's license and excellent driving record.
Must have a clean background check with no felonies or flags.
Must be able to lift and move heavy objects (up to 25 pounds)
Personal Characteristics
Should be committed and passionate about the Ascendigo mission of a holistic, active, community-based, independent, and person-centered life. He / she should believe in the dignity and potential of our clients. We also have a commitment to a culture of R.E.S.P.E.C.T. which stands for :
Chief Development Officer • Carbondale, CO, US