Chief Development Officer

Capital Partners For Education • Washington, DC

9d • Hybrid

About The Position

Spark the Journey seeks a dynamic and strategic Chief Development Officer (CDO) to lead all fundraising and revenue-generation efforts in support of the organization’s mission to help young adults achieve college and career success through mentorship and community. Reporting to the CEO and serving as a key member of the executive leadership team, the CDO will drive philanthropic strategy, cultivate high-impact donor relationships, and build a strong culture of philanthropy across the organization.

This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on fundraising, including major and principal gifts, institutional partnerships, and campaign leadership. To learn more position specific details, visit the CDO Full Hiring Package.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred
• Minimum 10 years of senior-level fundraising or development leadership experience
• Demonstrated success securing major gifts and leading complex fundraising initiatives or campaigns
• Knowledge of the Washington D.C. philanthropic landscape
• Proven ability to build, manage, and inspire high-performing teams
• Strong strategic thinking, communication, and relationship-building skills
• Passion for Spark the Journey’s mission and commitment to equity and opportunity for young adults

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive, multi-channel fundraising strategy aligned with Spark the Journey’s mission and growth goals
• Lead and mentor a high-performing development team and oversee fundraising operations, systems, and performance metrics
• Manage a portfolio of major and principal gift donors and personally solicit significant gifts (including six- and seven-figure contributions)
• Partner closely with the CEO and Board to engage trustees in fundraising and donor cultivation
• Strengthen institutional funding through foundations, corporations, and financial institutions
• Collaborate across departments to translate program priorities into compelling cases for support
• Represent Spark the Journey externally with donors, partners, and stakeholders

Benefits

• Competitive salary of $150,000 per annum; Spark the Journey offers a comprehensive benefits package and a collaborative, mission-driven work environment.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance with Flexible Spending Account options, effective the first day of the month following employment
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching of 3% after 6 months of employment
• Life and disability insurance with premiums fully funded by Spark
• 15 days of paid vacation in each of the first two years; 20 days in subsequent years
• Office closed on national and state holidays and between December 24-January 1
• Flexible teleworking policies in response to employee needs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive