Chief Development Officer (CDO)

Chief Development Officer (CDO) About the Company Acclaimed marine biology organization & aquarium IndustryMuseums and Institutions TypeNon Profit Founded1984 Employees501-1000 Categories MuseumsNon-ProfitOtherZoos and AquariumsEvents and FestivalsArcheologyFilmRecreationAquacultureArchitectureAssociationGovernmentNon Profit Specialties sustainable seafoodsea ottersgreat white sharksmarine protected areasjellyfishpublic aquarium exhibitsbluefin tunacoastal marine ecosystemsecosystem-based educationocean policyocean plastic pollutionclimate changecephalopodsocean acidificationscience educationseafood watchyouth developmentdistance learningplastic pollutionand aquacultureaquacultureand global plastic treaty About the Role The Company is seeking a Chief Development Officer to lead its fundraising, donor engagement, and membership programs and shape a comprehensive campaign. The role includes developing strategies to grow philanthropic revenue, identifying funding opportunities, and personally cultivating and stewarding major and principal gift donors. The CDO will advise senior leadership and trustees on fundraising, contribute to organization-wide strategy, and build strong relationships with donors and other stakeholders. The position also oversees and develops the fundraising team, setting priorities, measurable goals, and effective systems for performance and collaboration. Candidates should have at least 10 years of progressively responsible experience leading comprehensive development programs, including planning and delivering major campaigns. A strong record of securing major gifts and growing fundraising across individual, corporate, foundation, planned-giving, and membership programs is required. Applicants should bring strategic, analytical, and operational skills, along with experience using data and performance measures to improve results and allocate resources. The role calls for proven team leadership, sound judgment, strong communication, and the ability to engage senior leaders, trustees, volunteers, and donors; a bachelor’s degree is preferred, though equivalent relevant experience may be considered. Hiring Manager TitleCEO Functions Business DevelopmentNon-Profit Management