Chief Development & Strategy Officer - Philanthropic Growth

Job Description

Job Description

Chief Development & Strategy Officer (CDSO)

Executive Leadership | Phoenix, AZ | Full-Time

Be the Architect of Growth and Impact

About Us

Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest (LSS-SW) has been serving Arizona communities since 1970, providing stability, support, and hope to individuals and families in need. We are a trusted nonprofit leader committed to creating lasting impact through innovative programs, community partnerships, and mission-driven service.

The Opportunity

Position Summary The Chief Development and Strategy Officer (CDSO) is a key member of the Executive Leadership Team and reports directly to the CEO. This role is responsible for driving the organization’s long-term growth and sustainability by leading strategy, business development, philanthropic partnerships, revenue diversification, and external engagement. The CDSO oversees the Development and Community Engagement functions through leadership of the Partners in Action Division.

The CDSO cultivates innovation, develops external partnerships, and ensures LSS is positioned as a leader and collaborator in the philanthropic and social services space. He/she advises the CEO and Executive Team regarding emerging opportunities, sector trends, and strategic positioning. As the primary architect of revenue strategy that focuses on long-term goals and sustainability, the CDSO leads complex initiatives, strengthens institutional fundraising, and ensures alignment across all growth-oriented functions.

Key Responsibilities & Weighting

Strategic Leadership & Planning – 25%

• Identify and pursue new mission-aligned opportunities that support organizational growth and innovation.
• Cultivate relationships with, philanthropic institutions, community and industry associations, and partners to explore collaborative initiatives.
• Guide the development of proposals and partnership models that advance financial sustainability and service impact.
• Collaborate with executive colleagues to assess feasibility and ensure cross-functional readiness for new initiatives.

Oversight of Partners in Action – Development and Community Engagement – 30%

• Directly supervise senior staff overseeing Volunteer Engagement.
• Directly supervise the staff that make up the Philanthropy team.
• Ensure collaboration across teams to align fundraising and community engagement strategies.
• Foster a high-performing culture focused on accountability, innovation, and impact.
• Represent LSS externally with funders, community groups, and partner organizations.

Revenue Strategy, Fundraising, and Donor Engagement – 30%

• Set ambitious development and philanthropic revenue goals in partnership with the Development Director.
• Lead high-level donor and funder engagement, particularly with foundations and corporate investors.
• Guide the design and implementation of comprehensive fundraising campaigns and donor cultivation strategies.
• Ensure systems are in place for donor stewardship, data management, and performance evaluation.

External Relations, Volunteer Strategy, and Community Partnerships – 10%

• Build strategic alliances that expand visibility, impact, and funding opportunities.
• Cultivate meaningful opportunities for volunteer involvement in coordination with program leadership.
• Promote a culture of community engagement and public service.

Reporting & Executive Collaboration – 5%

• Provide regular updates to the CEO and Board of Directors on progress toward funding and strategic goals.
• Partner with the CFO to align financial forecasting with revenue strategy.
• Serve as a core member of the executive team, shaping LSS’s strategic direction.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of senior leadership in nonprofit fundraising, government or philanthropic partnerships, business development, or related fields.
• Demonstrated success in securing major gifts, institutional support, and strategic partnerships.
• Experience negotiating and managing high-value initiatives across sectors.
• Skilled at managing cross-functional teams and aligning diverse stakeholders.
• Strong financial acumen and understanding of nonprofit and governmental funding environments.
• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Public Administration, Social Work, Nonprofit Management, or related field strongly preferred.

Preferred Competencies

• Strategic, mission-driven thinker with a bold vision for impact.
• Executive presence and exceptional relationship-building skills.
• Ability to balance high-level strategy with operational implementation.
• Passion for advancing social justice, human services, and community-based solutions.

Why LSS-SW?

• Executive role with significant influence on organizational direction.
• Opportunity to shape innovative strategies that transform Arizona communities.
• Mission-driven, collaborative culture.
• Competitive salary + comprehensive benefits.

Take the Lead

Step into a role where bold leadership shapes the future of Arizona communities. Apply today to lead with vision, strategy, and impact.