Chief Development Officer

Description

Under the direction of the CEO, the Chief Development Officer is responsible for developing strategies for identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of donors. This includes annual support, capital support, endowment, grants, and special events.

ABOUT OUR Y

The YMCA has been a trusted community leader for 175 years. As one of the top charities in the nation, we serve 22 million people annually through programs focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. On a local level, we’re just as dedicated: In 2024, we served 33,000+ people in our community and provided $989,000+ in financial assistance, ensuring kids and families can belong and participate in programs regardless of ability to pay.

Our operation includes three branches, three childcare centers, and Camp Winni-Y-Co, a 24-acre summer day camp. The Downtown and 20th Avenue branches offer state-of-the-art fitness equipment, aquatics centers, gymnasiums, aerobic studios, and more—including a soccer arena and indoor ice rink at the 20th Ave Y. The Oshkosh Y Tennis & Pickleball Center is home to indoor courts and a thriving community of players.

Through community partnerships, collaborations, and the generosity of our donors, we’re able to deliver impactful programs, such as Safety Around Water for elementary school students, Rock Steady Boxing and Pedaling for Parkinson’s, TOP soccer for kids with disabilities, Livestrong for cancer survivors, and more.

Our work culture is welcoming, supportive, and collaborative, with the flexibility to help team members balance personal and professional life. People who thrive here are community minded, adaptable, and passionate about making a difference- because at the Oshkosh Y, we succeed when our community succeeds.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Oversee organizational donor base of 500+ donors and prospects.
• Manage a personal donor portfolio of 50 prospects, providing leadership to each stage of the donor cycle (identification, qualification, cultivation, request for support, stewardship)
• Develop and execute annual giving campaign with total gifts exceeding $500,000.
• Work with CEO and outside counsel to support and execute capital campaigns in alignment with the Y’s strategic plan.
• Develop individual donor strategies and goals to renew and upgrade donor gifts.
• Direct the grant program, including research and management of grant opportunities.
• Work with Branch Executives and their teams to secure sponsorships and execute special events.
• Collaborate with CEO and leadership staff to enhance relationships and create greater fundraising and outreach opportunities.
• Partner with Mission and Brand Enhancement Director to develop philanthropic messaging and collateral materials including a donor newsletter and our annual impact report.
• Represent the Y as a strategic community connector. Maintain and cultivate relationships with businesses and civic leaders, donors, and event sponsors. Participate in civic organizations and attend community events on behalf of the Y.
• Maintain an organized and accurate donor database by tracking all gifts and sponsorships.
• Develop and manage the Development Department budget.
• Represent the Oshkosh Y in our State Neighborhood, regionally and nationally.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability and desire to build strong and lasting relationships with donors and volunteers.
• Strong planning and organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priority projects with creativity and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated experience with solicitation, stewardship, and recognition techniques, with clear understanding of how donor relations drives engagement, retention, and can increase donor giving over the lifetime of the donor.
• Relevant experience with data management and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to demonstrate initiative and manage sensitive data in a trustworthy manner.
• Pass a criminal background screening.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s degree and 5+ years’ experience in Donor Relations or Development in a fundraising role with a complex organization. Experience collaborating with volunteers and knowledge of nonprofit organizations and donor centered fundraising principles. A proven ability to relate to community leaders, volunteers, and donors. A history of successful fundraising activities with year over year growth.

WHY JOIN THE OSHKOSH Y

• Life Insurance
• Health and Dental Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• Flex Spending for Dependent Care
• Retirement Savings Plans
• YMCA Retirement Fund Plan
• Free YMCA Membership
• Employee Wellness Programs
• YMCA Programming Discounts

Resumes accepted until September 15,2025

For more information or to submit cover letter and resume, contact jeffschneider@oshkoshymca.org