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 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.  

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.  

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