Description

Calvary University is seeking an enthusiastic, ministry-minded professional to serve as our Chief Development Officer. Calvary’s mission is to “…prepare Christians for life and service in the church and in the world according to a Biblical worldview…” and employees seek to integrate the day-to-day operations of each University department with this mission.

 To apply, please send your completed Staff Application to Calvary University at humres@calvary.edu or fax to 816-331-4474 or mail to Calvary University, Attn: Human Resources, 15800 Calvary Road, Kansas City, MO 64147.

 Job Title:                     Chief Development Officer

Department:                Development

Reports To:                 President

FLSA Status:               Exempt 

Revision Date:              March 2026

 Job Summary

The Chief Development Officer provides strategic and hands-on leadership for all fundraising, advancement, and donor engagement efforts of Calvary University. This role partners closely with the President and senior leadership to cultivate a culture of generosity that advances the institution’s Christ-centered mission.

 In a small, team-oriented environment, the Chief Development Officer develops strategy and actively executes fundraising initiatives—including donor cultivation, campaigns, and events—to increase philanthropic support, strengthen relationships, and ensure long-term financial sustainability. The successful candidate will be a relational and self-directed leader who thrives in a resource-conscious setting and takes ownership of results.

 Job Responsibilities

• Report to and meet regularly with the President and other Calvary leadership.
• Partner with the President to develop and implement a comprehensive strategic fundraising plan aligned with Calvary’s mission and priorities.
• Lead and personally execute fundraising efforts to support Calvary’s operations, programs, and special initiatives.
• Cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with donors and prospective donors, including individuals, churches, businesses, organizations, and foundations.
• Maintain and actively manage a portfolio of donor relationships through personal visits, events, and ongoing communication.
• Identify, research, and pursue new donor opportunities and funding sources.
• Establish measurable fundraising goals and take ownership of achieving results.
• Plan, coordinate, and assist with execution of fundraising campaigns, events, and donor communications.
• Oversee and, as needed, directly manage donor records, acknowledgments, and stewardship processes, with support as available.
• Ensure proper handling and documentation of gifts, including non-cash and planned gifts.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of development strategies and implement improvements as needed.
• Supervise and support any staff or volunteers involved in development activities, as applicable.
• Represent Calvary at events, churches, and community functions to promote engagement and support.
• Serve as a visible ambassador of Calvary’s mission, values, and Christian identity in all donor and community interactions.
• Pursue ongoing professional development to remain current with best practices in fundraising and advancement.  

 Prospective employees will receive consideration without discrimination based on race, color, age, national origin, handicap or veteran status.

Requirements

Job Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Demonstrated experience in fundraising, development, or related nonprofit work.
• Proven ability to cultivate, solicit, and steward donor relationships.
• Ability to work both strategically and operationally in a hands-on environment.
• Strong initiative with the ability to work independently and take ownership of outcomes.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate and champion the mission and vision of the University.
• High level of integrity, discretion, and professional work ethic.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities with limited resources.
• Demonstrated alignment with and support for Calvary’s Christian mission and values.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in higher education or a faith-based nonprofit organization.
• Experience with major gifts, planned giving, or capital campaigns.
• Familiarity with donor management systems (CRM) and fundraising tools.
• Experience working in a small or resource-limited organization.
• Formal training or continuing education in fundraising, development, or advancement.