Vice President of Development

Vice President of Development Reports To: President Status: Full-Time, Exempt Position Summary The Vice President of Development (VPD) provides strategic leadership for all fundraising, stewardship, and donor engagement efforts at Cristo Rey Fort Worth. This role is responsible for setting and executing a comprehensive development strategy that supports the school’s mission and long-term sustainability.

The VPD manages the development team, including the Major Gifts Officer and Annual Fund Manager, and works closely with the President, Board of Directors, and Cristo Rey leadership to meet and exceed fundraising goals.

Key Responsibilities

Development Strategy & Leadership Develop and execute a comprehensive annual fundraising plan, including major gifts, annual fund, grants, events, and sponsorships. Set revenue goals, monitor progress, and report regularly to the President and Board. Partner closely with the President on donor strategy, board engagement, and high-level solicitations.

Lead, manage, and support the development team, ensuring alignment, accountability, and professional growth. Major Gifts & Scholarships Oversee the major gifts program, including strategy, prospect management, and solicitation efforts. Collaborate with the Major Gifts Officer to secure major gifts and scholarships, including an annual goal of 55 scholarships.

Personally manage and solicit a portfolio of top donors and prospects. Ensure strong moves management, proposal development, and stewardship practices. Annual Fund & Donor Stewardship Oversee all annual giving efforts, including Giving Days, end-of-year appeals, monthly giving, and donor renewals. Guide donor stewardship strategies across all giving levels to strengthen retention and upgrade donors.

Ensure timely and meaningful donor acknowledgments and recognition. Events & Community Engagement Provide strategic oversight for all fundraising and stewardship events, including Boots & BBQ (gala), Clay Shoot, Wine Dinners, Friends of Cristo Rey, and Milestones & Corn Hole events as needed. Support sponsorship strategy and donor engagement tied to events.

Represent Cristo Rey Fort Worth at community events, donor meetings, and external presentations. Grants & Data Management Oversee grants strategy and ensure compliance, reporting, and accurate recordkeeping. Ensure integrity of donor data, reporting, acknowledgements, and pledge reminders in the CRM system.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred or equivalent experience. Experience Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive nonprofit development experience. Demonstrated success leading comprehensive fundraising programs and teams. Proven track record of securing major gifts and event revenue. Experience working with boards and senior leadership.

Skills & Attributes Exceptional relationship-building and communication skills. Strategic thinker with strong execution and follow-through. Highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive problem solver. Ability to balance high-level strategy with hands-on fundraising. Comfortable representing the organization with donors, corporate partners, and community leaders.

Knowledge of Google Workspace required; experience with Bloomerang and Give. Smart strongly preferred. Why Cristo Rey Fort Worth This is an opportunity to lead a mission-driven development program that directly impacts students and families while working alongside a committed leadership team, board, and community.