Chief Development Officer - Philanthropy

We’re searching for a Chief Development Officer -- someone who works well in a fast-paced setting. In this position, you are a key executive leader responsible for designing and executing a comprehensive philanthropy and development strategy to advance the mission of Texas Children's. The Chief Development Officer will lead all aspects of fundraising, donor relations, and philanthropic engagement while fostering a culture of philanthropy across the organization.

The Chief Development Officer will work closely with the Texas Children's Board of Trustees, executive leadership, clinical leaders, and philanthropy team to secure transformational gifts and strategic partnerships that support organizational expansion, research, patient care, and community initiatives. This role requires an inspirational and visionary leader with extensive experience in healthcare philanthropy, donor engagement, and large-scale fundraising initiatives.

Think you’ve got what it takes

Job Duties & Responsibilities

Strategic Philanthropy & Fundraising Leadership

• Develop and implement a comprehensive philanthropy strategy aligned with the healthcare organization’s mission, vision, and long-term financial goals.
• Lead all fundraising initiatives, including major and principal gifts, planned giving, corporate and foundation relations, annual giving, and special campaigns.
• Oversee and execute multi-million-dollar capital campaigns to support organization growth, medical research, patient care initiatives, and community programs.
• Cultivate and steward relationships with high-net-worth individuals, foundations, corporations, and community leaders to secure transformational gifts.
• Ensure fundraising policies and best practices reflect ethical, transparent, and donor-centric engagement.
• Serve as the principal fundraising advisor to the CEO and senior leadership team. 

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing philanthropy and development team, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.
• Assess and optimize the team’s structure, ensuring an effective and data-driven approach to securing philanthropic support.
• Collaborate with organization leadership and clinical teams to engage them in philanthropy efforts that align with organizational priorities.
   

Donor Relations & Board Engagement

• Serve as the organization’s chief philanthropy ambassador, strengthening relationships with key donors, board members, and philanthropic partners.
• Engage and support the organization’s Board of Trustees, providing strategic leadership to maximize their role in fundraising success.
• Oversee donor stewardship programs, ensuring donors receive meaningful recognition and impact reporting.
• Provide regular updates to organization leadership and the Board of Trustees on fundraising progress, donor engagement strategies, and philanthropic trends.
   

Campaigns, Special Initiatives & Innovation

• Lead and manage transformative fundraising initiatives, ensuring measurable impact and long-term sustainability.
• Identify and pursue new revenue streams and strategic partnerships, leveraging innovative philanthropy models.
• Oversee major fundraising events and community engagement initiatives, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission and brand.
• Expand the organization’s philanthropic reach through regional and national donor engagement strategies.

Leadership Competencies & Personal Attributes
 

• Inspirational leader who motivates teams, volunteers, and donors.
• Strategic and results-driven, with a proven ability to execute high-impact fundraising initiatives.
• Exceptional communicator and relationship builder, with strong interpersonal skills.
• High integrity and professionalism, demonstrating a commitment to ethical fundraising.
• Collaborative and adaptable, with experience navigating complex organizations and donor networks.
• Passion for women’s and children’s health, with a deep commitment to advancing Texas Children’s mission through philanthropy.

Skills & Requirements 
 

• 10-15 years of progressive leadership experience in philanthropy and development ideally in children's hospital, academic medical central, or nonprofit healthcare organization. 
• Proven track record of securing seven- and eight- figure gifts and leading large-scale fundraising campaigns. 
• Expertise in capital campaigns, major gifts, donor relations, and corporate partnerships.
• Experience working with boards, high-net-worth donors, corporate and foundation leaders. 
• Strong strategic thinking, leadership, and relationship-building skills.
• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred in business, philanthropy, public administration, or a related field.