Chief Development Officer

Overview

Autism Speaks is seeking an inspiring and results‑driven Chief Development Officer (CDO) to successfully lead and grow all fundraising and revenue strategies that ensure long‑term sustainability and expand our mission impact.

Reporting to the President and CEO, the CDO will collaborate closely with a dedicated and mission‑driven senior executive team. As the organization’s seasoned development executive, the CDO will be responsible for designing and executing a clear, multi‑year plan to sustain and grow Autism Speaks’ $35 million revenue base.

We are looking for a strategic, relationship‑driven leader who values collaboration, transparency, and measurable results. Personally, and through their team, the CDO will cultivate and strengthen existing and new transformative partnerships across corporate, foundation, and individual donor networks, while fostering and promoting a high‑performing, inclusive culture that empowers every team member.

• Lead the charge in revenue production and growth by designing and implementing a multi‑year fundraising strategy grounded in data, innovation, and impact, ensuring long‑term sustainability and mission expansion.
• Personally cultivate, solicit, and steward transformational six‑ and seven‑figure gifts, with a strategic focus on high‑net‑worth individuals, corporations and foundations.
• Serve as the organization’s lead fundraiser and relationship architect, setting the tone for donor engagement at every level.
• Inspire and engage the Board of Directors to serve as active ambassadors and champions of a strong culture of philanthropy.
• Act as a partner to the CEO and Board members to strengthen existing donor relationships and shepherd new relationships.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with Science, Advocacy, and Service and Supports departments to align fundraising efforts with programmatic priorities which amplify mission impact.
• Inspire and mobilize a team of 50+ fundraising professionals, empowering them to build authentic donor relationships, exceed their goals, and grow professionally within a collaborative, inclusive environment.
• Foster a high‑performing, inclusive, and transparent culture where staff can thrive by staying attuned to the team’s pulse and regularly analyze and report development results to drive strategic growth.
• Maintain a visible presence with donors and partners, traveling as needed – including evenings and weekends – to attend key events, deepen relationships, and represent Autism Speaks with passion and purpose.

(The responsibilities listed above are representative and not all inclusive. Other duties may be assigned by supervisor/s. As outlined in your performance goal setting forms, you will be responsible for achieving the goals provided by and agreed upon with your manager.)

Experience:

• 15 years or more professional experience, including a minimum of 10 years specifically in fundraising or development roles.
• A minimum of 5 years in a senior development leadership position, with a proven track record of increasing revenue year over year by implementing effective fundraising strategies and leading a matrix team of 10 or more professionals. For example, successfully secured several seven‑figure gifts and had success mentoring others to achieve similar results.

• Extensive experience cultivating relationships with Boards of Directors and volunteers to advance fundraising and mission objectives, including spearheading board‑led engagement initiatives that resulted in increases in donor participation and support.

• Personal or professional experience with autism preferred.
• Compassionate and attentive listener who values meaningful engagement with the autism community as central to success.
• Excellent interpersonal skills; connect effectively with people at all levels, internally and externally.
• Expert at crafting a compelling case for support and tailoring it to diverse audiences.
• Strong management and mentorship skills; the ability to build and inspire a high‑performing team.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to identify, prioritize, and execute growth opportunities, using data and…