Eastern Connecticut State University is seeking a qualified candidate for the Chief Development Officer position. Eastern is Connecticut’s Public Liberal Arts University located in Willimantic, Connecticut, 1.5 hours from Boston and 2.5 hours from New York City. The position is part of the Connecticut State College and University System (CSCU) and offers substantial health and retirement benefits.
Job Summary
Manages the operations of the University’s broad-based outreach and fundraising efforts, including alumni relations, annual giving, and donor relations, and coordinates the analysis and improvement of constituent data systems. The Chief Development Officer is responsible for the development and oversight of a comprehensive donor relations program, directing the creation and management of systems that foster relationships, encourage engagement, and generate philanthropic support.
Supervision Exercised
The Chief Development Officer reports to the University President. The Chief Development Officer supervises and directs the activities of Development and Alumni Engagement, professional and support staff.
Essential Duties
- Manage the planning, development, and implementation of outreach and program aspects of Development and Alumni Engagement.
- Manage daily operations and strategic programming of Development and Alumni Engagement, including supervising, mentoring, leading, and evaluating staff.
- Develop long-term fundraising strategic plans with measurable objectives and implementation timeframes that align with the university’s strategic plan and mission.
- Lead major fundraising initiatives, including capital campaigns, endowment growth, scholarship and program support.
- As authorized by the ECSU Foundation Board, serve as the Executive Director of the ECSU Foundation, overseeing its operations, compliance, and fiduciary responsibilities. Work with the Foundation Board of Directors to ensure effective governance, transparency, and alignment with university goals. Collaborate with the Board of Directors for investment management, financial reporting, and financial audits. Ensure that all federal, state, and Board reporting requirements are met.
- Maintain existing Foundation funds and develop new funds.
- Provide oversight and direction to the Foundation’s Business Manager.
- Utilize data analysis, alumni survey data, and other tools to develop and implement new programs and fundraising initiatives.
- Monitor progress and effectiveness of the annual fund and special projects and programs.
- As a member of the President’s Cabinet, collaborate with university leadership to analyze program ideas, develop concepts into new programs, and redesign existing programs to meet funding source requirements for university-wide, annual, and unrestricted program needs. Provide guidance to the President and the Cabinet on philanthropic strategy and donor engagement. Participate in the strategic planning process.
- Interface with University Departments, faculty, and administrators to advance initiatives and effectively engage current students to establish future alumni and donor relations.
- Collaborates with the Marketing and Communications Department to maximize interactions through the university website, social media, email, and other media.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Proven ability to work effectively with a culturally, linguistically, and ethnically diverse faculty, staff, and students. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Demonstrated understanding of the university’s mission. Understanding of financial and management principles and the ability to compile and interpret financial and demographic data. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to lead and manage employees, organize workflow, and coordinate activities in a teamwork-based environment. Ability to identify, cultivate, and solicit gifts from individuals and organizations. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams) and the ability to learn donor CRM software or other fundraising database systems.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution required; Master’s preferred. Seven (7) years of professional experience in college or university advancement or comparable industry experience showing increasing levels of skill and responsibility.
Work Environment
Incumbents typically perform work in an office and may be required to work evenings, weekends, and outdoor events. The work involves extensive use of personal computers and does not normally require significant physical effort. Reasonable accommodation will be made for incumbents and candidates with physical limitations.
To Apply
Applications should upload a cover letter, current resume, and contact information of three professional references to JazzHR for the Chief Development Officer – Eastern CT State University career page. Cover letter should be addressed to the Chair, Search Committee for the Chief Development Officer. Applications submitted by September 30, 2025, will receive highest consideration.
Compensation and Employee Benefits
The Chief Information Officer is compensated at the Executive 2 salary level in accordance with CSCU Human Resources Policies for Management and Confidential Professional Personnel. For more information, please visit Bargaining Agreements/Pay Plans - Eastern. The State of Connecticut and Eastern Connecticut State University offer competitive wages and a wide range of fringe benefits, including paid leave, medical, dental, and prescription plans, group life insurance, retirement, and tuition waivers for employees and eligible dependents. More information is available from Human Resources - Eastern.
Non-Discrimination
Eastern Connecticut State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, age, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin, marital status, ancestry, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or criminal record. A designated contact for inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies is LaMar Coleman, Ed.D., Vice President for Equity and Diversity. He can be reached at or via email at
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