Chief Development Officer

Location: Sunland, CA 
Employment Type: Full-Time

About Tierra del Sol

Tierra del Sol Foundation champions inclusion and opportunity for individuals with developmental disabilities through innovative pathways to employment, education, and the arts. Serving over 800 associates daily, Tierra partners with businesses, colleges, galleries, and community organizations to create meaningful opportunities for the individuals we support.

Position Summary

Tierra del Sol is seeking an experienced and strategic Chief Development Officer (CDO) to lead all fundraising and development efforts. Reporting directly to the CEO and serving on the senior leadership team, the CDO will oversee fundraising strategy, major gifts, corporate and foundation partnerships, annual giving, donor stewardship, special events, and development operations while supervising a three-person Development team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all fundraising activities, including major gifts, annual giving, corporate and foundation relations, planned giving, and special events.
• Cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors and funding partners.
• Develop and implement annual fundraising goals and long-term development strategies.
• Provide support and reporting to the Board of Directors and Resource Committee.
• Oversee donor communications, marketing initiatives, and fundraising campaigns.
• Supervise Development Department staff and ensure effective department operations.
• Manage fundraising events, donor engagement activities, and community outreach efforts.
• Monitor department budgets, donor databases, and stewardship programs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred.
• 5–7 years of progressive fundraising and development experience.
• Minimum 3 years of management and staff supervision experience.
• Proven success securing and cultivating major gifts.
• Strong leadership, communication, relationship-building, and organizational skills.
• Valid California Driver's License, reliable transportation, and current auto insurance.
• Ability to pass DOJ Live Scan, TB test, and pre-employment physical.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to attend occasional evening and weekend events.
• Commitment to Tierra del Sol's mission of supporting individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Experience working with Boards of Directors, donor relations, and fundraising campaigns preferred.

Tierra del Sol Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and community.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply through Saenger Associates by visiting:

Current Opportunities – Saenger Associates

For questions regarding this opportunity, please contact Gary Saenger.

We look forward to hearing from qualified candidates who are passionate about advancing opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities.