Chadron State Foundation, Chief Executive Officer

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) provides visionary leadership and strategic direction to elevate the Chadron State Foundation’s (CSF) mission, fostering innovation in philanthropic growth and engagement. The CEO establishes and further develops relationships with all stakeholders of the Foundation with objectives focused on fundraising to further elevate Chadron State College (CSC). The position, in consultation with the College community and the President, develops strategic plans, budgets, generates contracts and agreements related to gifts, bequests, and trusts, facilitates communication with CSC and CSF constituents.

The CEO, reporting to the CSF Board Chair, establishes and monitors business strategies to ensure CSF is in an optimal financial position to meet the mission of the Foundation. The CEO, as lead officer for major gifts, is instrumental in supporting positive change as CSC continues to grow as a regional college of distinction. The position will sit on the leadership committee of Chadron State College to ensure efficient and streamlined implementation and communication for common goals.

Provide managerial oversight and leadership for CSF operations. Ability to organize, supervise, provide professional development and lead internal staff, including an all-volunteer governing board for the CSF. Ability to handle all administrative aspects of the CSF, including budget development, generation of contracts and agreements related to gifts, bequests, and trusts, agenda setting for and reporting to the Foundation Board of Directors and committees of the Board. Serve as the chief development and fund-raising officer of the CSF. Lead high-impact fundraising campaigns, including multi-year capital campaigns and major initiatives, ensuring alignment with the college’s strategic goals and priorities. Leverage data-driven strategies and emerging technologies to optimize fundraising efforts, using advanced donor analytics to identify, cultivate, and steward major gifts. Implementation of techniques for prospect research and development. Cultivate and strengthen strategic partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, including CSC leadership, alumni, regional businesses, regional foundations, and community leaders to enhance philanthropic engagement and support for CSC. Be active in civic engagement within area communities and CSC’s footprint. Strong and demonstrated team building. Adherence and understanding of professional standards and high ethical standards, including financial oversight. Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess fundraising effectiveness, stakeholder engagement, and long-term financial health of the CSF. Advocate for CSF and be the ambassador for the mission and enhancing the public image and relationships.

Strengthen Board relations by facilitating transparent communication, providing strategic guidance, and aligning Board initiatives with the CSF long-term goals. Actively engage with Board members to leverage their networks and expertise. Assist in the recruitment and orientation of new Board members and Trustees of the foundation. Represent the Foundation and provide leadership to events on campus and in the community.