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Chief Development Officer Jobs in Washington, DC

Mary's Center

Chief Development Officer

Washington, DC · On-site

$213K/yr

Mary's Center has partnered with ZRG Aspen Leadership Group in the search for a Chief Development Officer. You may view the position prospectus or submit an application via this link: Equal ...

Mary's Center

Chief Development Officer

Washington, DC · On-site

$181 - $245/hr

August 4, 2026 * Full-Time * Salary : $213,000 USD per year Locations Showing 1 location Mary\'s Center has partnered with ZRG Aspen Leadership Group in the search for a Chief Development Officer.

American Humane

Chief Development Officer

Washington, DC · On-site

$230K - $250K/yr

The Chief Development Officer (CDO) is responsible for forging key relationships to build American Humane Society's visibility, impact and financial resources with the primary objective of driving ...

American Humane

Chief Development Officer

Washington, DC · On-site

$230K - $250K/yr

The Chief Development Officer (CDO) is responsible for forging key relationships to build American Humane Society's visibility, impact and financial resources with the primary objective of driving ...

Dog Tag Inc.

Chief Development Officer

Washington, DC · On-site

Role Description The Chief Development Officer (CDO) is an integral member of the Dog Tag leadership team and is responsible for inspiring the development team to deliver our fundraising goals. This ...

Dog Tag Inc.

Chief Development Officer

Washington, DC · On-site

$135 - $165/hr

Role Description The Chief Development Officer (CDO) is an integral member of the Dog Tag leadership team and is responsible for inspiring the development team to deliver our fundraising goals. This ...

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All JobsChief Development Officer JobsChief Development Officer Jobs in Washington, DC

Chief Development Officer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$62.8K

$153.4K

$240K

How much do chief development officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief development officer in Washington, DC is $153,368.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,700.00 and $181,100.00 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.
More about Chief Development Officer jobs
Chief Development Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Development Officer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $153,368 per year, or $73.7 per hour.

Chief Development Officer

Marys Center for Maternal and Child Care

Washington, DC

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Mary's Center has partnered with ZRG Aspen Leadership Group in the search for a Chief Development Officer.

You may view the position prospectus or submit an application via this link: https://opportunities.aspenleadershipgroup.com/opportunities/8936.

Apply