Chief Development Officer - Michigan State Bar Foundation

The Michigan State Bar Foundation (MSBF) is seeking an experienced Chief Development Officer (CDO) to lead and implement the Foundation’s fundraising strategy, build and manage the development team, and increase the visibility of its mission and impact. The CDO is a key member of the leadership team and will focus on the Access to Justice Campaign, a centralized fundraising campaign that raises money from Michigan’s legal community for 14 civil legal aid organizations throughout Michigan, and the Foundation’s Fellows Program. This is a hybrid position located in Lansing, MI.

About MSBF

Founded in 1947, MSBF is committed to advancing access to justice through funding for civil legal aid and public education about the legal system. With over $210 million in grants awarded, MSBF supports essential services for low-income individuals. MSBF’s programs also focus on educating the public about legal rights, the justice system, and alternative dispute resolution.

Key Responsibilities

Leading strategic planning and implementation

• Develop and execute a comprehensive development strategy.
• Oversee all aspects of the development program, including major gifts, planned gifts, annual fund contributions and special events.
• Drive a marketing strategy to support development efforts.
• Develop and direct the development and fundraising department budget, ensuring efficient use of resources and adherence to financial targets.

Managing Development Team

• Lead, coach and direct the development team, including the Manager of Communications, the Impact Gifts Manager, Engagement Manager and Development Associate.
• Foster a collaborative and high-performance team environment, setting clear goals and evaluating performance.
• Develop and direct the implementation of performance metrics and evaluation tools.

Donor and Fundraising Management

• Develop and direct the implementation of a donor-centered fundraising plan that includes clear goals, recognition, metrics and timelines for achieving fundraising targets.
• Identify and direct the implementation of technology solutions to support development strategies and to enhance donor engagement and stewardship.
• Develop and maintain effective systems and processes to support development operations, including gift processing, database management and reporting.

Collaboration and Coordination

• Partner with the Executive Director, Development Steering Committee, and Board of Directors, to develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, volunteers, legal aid programs and community leaders.
• Provide leadership and direction to other team members as needed to ensure alignment with the Foundation’s goals and objectives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Business, or related field; CFRE or advanced studies preferred
• 7+ years of experience in nonprofit development or fundraising, with at least 3 years in a management role
• Prior experience creating strategic fundraising plans and building consensus amongst stakeholders to achieve fundraising goals.
• Strong understanding of planned giving and experience in donor management
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills, with demonstrated experience in public speaking and external relations.
• Proficiency in donor management software and Microsoft Office Suite

Benefits and Compensation

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• A collaborative, hybrid work environment that values integrity, adaptability, and teamwork
• Opportunity to make a lasting impact through community-focused fundraising and equitable grantmaking

Apply Now to Join MSBF’s Mission

This role is ideal for an experienced Development Leader passionate about nonprofit fundraising and committed to justice. If you’re ready to lead impactful initiatives and foster community-centered donor relationships, apply today to join MSBF’s mission-driven team.

The Michigan State Bar Foundation is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in its workforce, creating an inclusive environment, and encouraging members of traditionally underrepresented communities to apply, including people of color, women, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people with disabilities.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. The Michigan State Bar Foundation will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant’s race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), age, disability/handicap, height, weight, marital status, familial status, veteran status, citizenship, or any other classification protected by federal or state law or local ordinance.