Chief Development Officer   Email     Print   PDF

• In alignment with the Institution's strategic plan, meet near-term fundraising goals and provide the vision and collaborative leadership necessary to plan, implement and manage a multi-year, multi-million dollar comprehensive campaign in support of the Institution's research and educational mission.

• Deepen alliances with existing donors while launching systematic initiatives to identify and target individuals capable of making major financial contributions in support of the Institution.

• Promote the use of planned giving vehicles as vital, long-term means of support for WHOI.

• As an ex-officio member of the Trustee and Corporation fund-raising committees, provide the highest level of personal support to board members and inspire them into action. Build constructive working relationships and work in close partnership with the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, other key board members and volunteer leaders. Ensure that their time is used effectively and that their efforts are focused on donors and activities at appropriate levels.

• Partner with the President and Director, providing strategic focus necessary to ensure her effectiveness as chief spokesperson and fundraiser for WHOI; provide guidance and good counsel with respect to all fundraising-related activities, including a campaign and its priorities.

• Help strengthen WHOI's competitive position among the world's leading ocean science research institutions by working collaboratively with the President and Director and members of the scientific and technical staffs to identify and define the full range of fundraising priorities across the Institution.

• Forge a strong partnership between Development staff and scientific staff to ensure open access to scientific ideas and broad dissemination about opportunities.

• Orchestrate the participation of Department Chairs and scientific staff in the identification, cultivation and stewardship of key funding sources, providing direction and professional insight.

• Provide leadership to WHOI's Development team, which includes the areas of principal gifts, major gifts, annual fund, planned giving, foundation relations and advancement services.

• Work closely with the staff to establish appropriate monitoring systems to maintain fundraising focus and team performance as staff carry out their duties with assigned prospects; ensure staff, independently or with their Trustees, volunteers, scientific staff members and the President and Director, execute effective moves management strategies that result in the meaningful engagement and successful solicitation of donors.

• Foster an environment that rewards performance, builds confidence, and encourages interaction and teamwork; recognize and celebrate current achievements and set clear expectations for future success.  

A deep appreciation for the mission and aspirations of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution; knowledge of and a sincere interest in the environment, ocean science research and higher education.

At least ten years of experience and a proven track record of success in non-profit development focused on the recruitment, engagement, solicitation, and stewardship of seven- and eight-figure donors and foundations.

Proven skills as a strategist, with the ability to articulate a vision for the future and to build a development organization and volunteer structure capable of sustaining that vision.

A self-starter who used an entrepreneurial approach to building and guiding a development program and who has the ability to reach out to a broader community to promote the mission of the Institution.A track record of success leading a development operation; an approach to management that brings out the best in staff and yields pride, ownership, and a sense of team effort.

Possess a supportive and accessible management style, the ability to lead and motivate a diverse staff and to encourage change and growth in both people and programs, and a strong commitment to personal and professional development.

Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain strong, collaborative working relationships with varied internal and external constituencies.

The professional credibility, intellectual depth, maturity, wisdom, humor and collaborative skills to garner the trust and confidence of the President and Director, Board members and key stakeholders.

Superior communication skills, with the ability to summarize information and connect with a variety of audiences; clarity, crispness and persuasiveness in written and oral communications; high comfort level with current electronic media/databases.

Unquestionable integrity and professionalism.

Willingness and ability to travel frequently.

Knowledge of, and input into, institutional financial planning.

Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s preferred; science background helpful.