Development Chief of Staff

SUMMARY

The Development Chief of Staff at USA for UNHCR serves as a strategic advisor and right hand to the Chief Development Officer (CDO), providing high-level support in overseeing the operations and strategy of the development team. This role is responsible for driving efficiency, alignment, and execution of fundraising initiatives, ensuring that the CDO’s vision is translated into actionable plans across various development functions, including individual giving, private philanthropy/major gifts, integrated partnerships, and digital and offline fundraising.

The Development Chief of Staff will manage day-to-day priorities, coordinate internal and external communications, and provide project management support for cross-functional initiatives. This role requires a strategic thinker who can manage complex projects, facilitate communication across departments, and ensure that the development team’s goals are met in alignment with the organization's mission and objectives.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work closely with the CDO to develop and implement the overall development strategy, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and priorities.
• Translate the CDO’s vision into actionable fundraising strategies and operational plans, monitoring progress and adjusting as needed to meet goals.
• Drive strategic initiatives, ensuring that the development team is on track with key objectives and timelines.
• Lead the coordination and preparation of materials for internal and external high level convenings and meetings, including presentations, reports, and talking points.
• Coordinate the workstreams of the development team, managing timelines, deliverables, and follow-up to ensure projects are on track.
• Support team members in aligning their goals and activities with the broader organizational and fundraising strategy, helping to resolve any roadblocks.
• Facilitate cross-functional collaboration with internal teams such as communications, finance, and operations to ensure alignment on fundraising initiatives and organizational objectives.
• Identify opportunities for improving efficiency and effectiveness within the development team, implementing process improvements where necessary.
• Ensure that the team has the tools, technology, and data needed to meet fundraising goals, working closely with operations and business systems teams.
• Lead special projects on behalf of the CDO, from conceptualization to execution, ensuring timely and successful completion.
• Provide project management oversight for high-impact development initiatives, ensuring coordination across departments and smooth execution.
• Act as a key advisor and thought partner to the CDO, offering insights and recommendations on key development decisions and strategies.
• Draft and review communications for internal and external stakeholders, ensuring messaging aligns with the CDO’s vision and the organization’s overall objectives.
• Collaborate with data and analytics teams to gather insights, track trends, and make data-driven recommendations for optimizing development efforts.
• Other duties as assigned

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 12 years of experience in nonprofit development, operations, or a related field, with at least 5 years in a Chief of Staff role preferred. Bachelor’s degree in business administration, nonprofit management, communications, or a related field. A master’s degree is preferred.
• In lieu of education/degree requirements a successful candidate will have:
  • Proven track record of leading complex projects, managing cross-functional teams, and driving organizational change.
  • Exceptional organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience preparing high-level presentations, reports, and talking points for senior executives.
  • Experience working in international development, humanitarian aid, or mission-driven organizations is preferred.
• Skilled at overseeing and driving multiple projects to completion, managing timelines, resources, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate complex challenges and identify innovative solutions.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with internal teams, donors, and external partners.
• Ability to see the big picture and translate the CDO’s vision into actionable strategies and plans.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, inspire action, and influence outcomes without direct authority.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and pivot quickly to meet changing organizational needs.

WORK LOCATION

Hybrid + New York, NY + May also involve travel to some locations within the company’s region of operations and select donor locations.

COMPENSATION

$154,193- $185,031

DISABILITY SPECIFICATIONS

USA for UNHCR will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

USA for UNHCR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Refugees and all other protected classes are encouraged to apply.