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$57.2K

$139.7K

$218.6K

How much do chief development officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief development officer in Chicago, IL is $139,657.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,600.00 and $165,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Chief Development Officer?

A chief development officer (CDO) is an executive-level employee at a business or non-profit. As a CDO, your job duties include overseeing the financial stability, fundraising, or growth of the organization. You maintain close communication with internal executive officers, such as the CEO and CFO, advising them on strategies to improve donor relations or increase revenue while providing input for yearly budgets and other financial issues. Qualifications for this career include experience working in a senior business development position, such as a Director of In-House Consulting or Corporate Strategy. You should also have experience in improving business revenue and productivity. To succeed in this role, you must have a strong desire to do research, analyze data, and be able to work well alone and with others. A CDO typically has a bachelor’s degree and an MBA as well as strong leadership and communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chief Development Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Development Officer, you need expertise in fundraising strategies, donor relations, and nonprofit management, often supported by a degree in business, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with donor management systems (like Salesforce or Raiser’s Edge), analytics tools, and relevant certifications such as CFRE are typically essential. Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and persuasive communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills are crucial for securing resources, building strong partnerships, and advancing the organization’s mission.

What are some typical challenges faced by chief development officers when leading fundraising initiatives?

Chief Development Officers (CDOs) often encounter challenges such as balancing short-term fundraising goals with long-term strategic growth, engaging diverse donor bases, and ensuring coordination between development, marketing, and program teams. They must also adapt to evolving donor expectations and leverage data-driven strategies to maximize fundraising efforts. Collaborative leadership, strong communication, and adaptability are vital for overcoming these hurdles and driving sustained organizational growth.

What is the difference between Chief Development Officer vs Chief Fundraising Officer?

AspectChief Development OfficerChief Fundraising Officer
Primary FocusOverall organizational growth, including development strategies, partnerships, and program expansionFundraising activities, donor relations, and revenue generation
Required CredentialsTypically advanced degrees in business, nonprofit management, or related fields; experience in development rolesSimilar credentials, often with emphasis on fundraising certifications or experience in donor engagement
Work EnvironmentExecutive leadership in nonprofit or corporate settings, overseeing development teamsFundraising departments, donor relations teams, often within nonprofit organizations
Industry UsageCommonly used in nonprofits, educational institutions, and large corporationsPrimarily used in nonprofit organizations and charitable foundations

The Chief Development Officer focuses on broad organizational growth and development strategies, while the Chief Fundraising Officer specializes in fundraising efforts and donor relations. Both roles require similar credentials and often work closely, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What does a chief development officer make?

A Chief Development Officer (CDO) typically earns a salary ranging from $100,000 to over $250,000 annually, depending on the organization size and industry. Compensation often includes bonuses, incentives, and benefits, reflecting the executive level and responsibility for fundraising, strategic growth, and development initiatives.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Chief Development Officer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Chief Development Officer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Chief Development Officer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Chief Development Officer job openings:

Chief Development Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Development Officer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $139,657 per year, or $67.1 per hour.

Chief Development Officer

Saint Ignatius College Prep

Chicago, IL • On-site

$190K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Development/Chief Development Officer
Date Posted:
5/13/2026
Location:
Saint Ignatius College Prep, Chicago, Illinois
Date Available:
Negotiable
Closing Date:
When Filled
Chief Development Officer
Saint Ignatius College Prep - Chicago, IL
Saint Ignatius College Prep seeks a Chief Development Officer (CDO). As a key member of the President's leadership team, the CDO designs and implements comprehensive advancement strategies that strengthen philanthropic support, increase visibility, and enhance accessibility. This leader oversees all fundraising efforts and ensures alignment with the School's values, mission, and long-term strategic goals.
We're partnering with the executive recruiting firm, Heidrick & Struggles, to conduct this search. For further information about the opportunity or to share questions, ideas, or interest in the role, please contact the Heidrick team directly at SaintIgnatiusCDO@heidrick.com
Job Title: Chief Development Officer
Department: Development
Reports To: President
FLSA Status: Exempt
Employment Status: 12-month, full-time
Position Summary
The Chief Development Officer (CDO) is a senior leader responsible for advancing the mission of the School through strategic leadership of development, alumni relations, marketing/communications, and public relations. As a key member of the President's leadership team, the CDO designs and implements comprehensive advancement strategies that strengthen philanthropic support, increase visibility, and enhance accessibility. This role oversees all fundraising efforts and ensures alignment with the School's values, mission, and long-term strategic goals.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and manage all advancement functions, including development, alumni relations, communications, and public relations
  • Develop and execute annual and long-range fundraising strategies, including major gifts, annual fund, planned giving, and corporate/foundation relations
  • Cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors, including alumni, parents, and community partners
  • Provide leadership and supervision to advancement staff, including performance management and strategic direction
  • Partner with the President and Board of Trustees to support fundraising initiatives and donor engagement
  • Oversee donor relations, recognition programs, and advancement communications
  • Strengthen community relations with local organizations, civic entities, and institutional partners
  • Collaborate with school leadership on strategic planning, visibility, and institutional growth
  • Other duties as assigned

Scope and Impact
This role has broad organizational impact, shaping the School's fundraising strategy, public presence, and long-term financial sustainability. The CDO exercises significant independent judgment, directly influences major gift revenue, and plays a key role in strategic decision-making. The position interacts extensively with senior leadership, trustees, donors, and the broader community.
Qualifications - Required
  • Demonstrated experience in institutional advancement, fundraising, and operations management
  • Proven leadership experience managing teams and complex initiatives
  • Strong background in strategic planning and implementation
  • Experience in donor cultivation, major gifts, and fundraising program oversight
  • Practicing Catholic in full communion with the Church with appreciation for Jesuit education

Qualifications - Preferred
  • Bachelor's degree in business, leadership, or related field
  • Experience in education or nonprofit sector advancement
  • Experience working with boards and high-level stakeholders

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)
  • Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and public speaking skills
  • Strong leadership presence with ability to build trust and relationships across diverse stakeholders
  • Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and lead complex initiatives
  • High level of professionalism, discretion, and organizational awareness
  • Ability to engage effectively with donors, trustees, alumni, and community partners

Work Environment & Physical Requirements
This position operates in a professional school and community environment with frequent interaction at on-campus and off-campus events. The role requires extended periods of sitting, communication, and travel to meetings and events. Evening and weekend work is regularly required.
Compensation and Schedule
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.
  • Salary Range: $190,000-$210,000
  • Compensation is salaried and commensurate with experience.
  • The expected work schedule typically ranges from 40 55 hours per week, including evenings and events as required.

Performance Expectations
  • Achievement of annual and long-term fundraising goals
  • Successful cultivation and stewardship of major donors
  • Effective leadership and development of advancement team
  • Increased visibility and engagement with alumni and community stakeholders
  • Alignment of advancement strategies with school mission and strategic plan
  • Strong collaboration with President, leadership team, and Board of Trustees

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