Chief Philanthropy Officer

THE ORGANIZATION: Founded in 1942, Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services has spent more than 80 years standing with people in their most difficult moments. A national leader in mental health, substance use, and suicide prevention services, Didi Hirsch is paving the way in whole-person care. As the home of the nation’s first and most comprehensive Suicide Prevention Center and one of the largest 988 crisis centers, Didi Hirsch has been shaping the landscape of suicide prevention through innovative modalities and high-quality crisis care. Today, Didi Hirsch is a $90 million agency serving more than 270,000 people each year. Didi Hirsch is powered by more than 1,000 dedicated employees and volunteers who provide thoughtful, culturally responsive care across nine locations. From early childhood through older adulthood, the organization offers integrated mental health and substance use services designed to meet people where they are. With a strong focus on youth mental health, Didi Hirsch operates Teen Line, a nationally recognized peer-to-peer crisis line, Our Third Place, a youth wellness center, and partners with schools, youth-serving organizations, and families to support young people at risk. Through community-based services, outpatient care, crisis services, and round-the-clock residential programs, Didi Hirsch continues its mission to help people heal, find hope, and thrive. To learn more about Didi Hirsch and its programs, please visit https://didihirsch.org/. RESPONSIBILITIES The Chief Philanthropy Officer (CPO) is a key member of the Executive Team and a strategic partner to the CEO, responsible for leading a bold, forward-thinking fundraising and communications vision that will take Didi Hirsch to its next level of impact and growth. This leader will drive the expansion of Didi Hirsch’s philanthropic reach by building a new and diversified donor pipeline, significantly growing private revenue, and introducing innovative, creative fundraising strategies that attract new supporters and deepen engagement with the mission. Overseeing a department of 15, the CPO will lead a comprehensive development and communications program that integrates major gifts and planned giving, institutional partnerships, and high-impact events with a compelling, mission-driven communications plan. This role requires a highly entrepreneurial leader who is energized by identifying and securing new opportunities, cultivating new donor audiences, and positioning Didi Hirsch for long-term sustainability and national prominence. In fiscal year 2025, Didi Hirsch raised $5 million in private philanthropic revenue, with a funding mix of Individuals, corporations, and foundations. The CPO will be expected to significantly and strategically grow this portfolio by expanding individual and new donor contributions. Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to: Fundraising Strategy Takes primary responsibility for achieving and significantly growing the $5M+ annual private revenue goal, by developing an innovative strategy and execution of a transformative fundraising plan focused on expanding and diversifying the donor base. Personally manages a high-level portfolio of principal gift prospects; identifies, cultivates, and solicits six- and seven-figure gifts from individuals and institutions. Builds and leads a new donor pipeline, identifying, cultivating, and securing relationships with individuals, foundations, and corporate partners not previously engaged with Didi Hirsch. Partners with the Board of Directors to strengthen engagement, increase giving, and activate networks to support growth. Ensures a stewardship experience where donors receive timely acknowledgment and updates on agency impact. Oversees agency events, including cultivation events, Suicide Prevention 5K Walk/Run, Open Houses, and other gatherings. Leadership & Management Partners with the CEO, Board of Directors, and Executive Team to set and execute development and communications strategies that strengthen financial sustainability, visibility, and organizational reputation. Serves as a strategic partner to the CEO by identifying and cultivating funder opportunities, shaping communications, and ensuring effective external positioning to advance philanthropic goals. Attends all Board meetings and presents fundraising updates, strategic vision, and insights. In partnership with the Committee Chair, leads the Development and Communications Board Committee. Serves on the Executive Team to align fundraising and communications with programmatic, financial, and operational priorities and strategic goals. Builds and sustains a high-performing, collaborative team through recruitment, performance management, coaching, professional development, and succession planning. Maintains current knowledge of best practices in fundraising and marketing within the nonprofit and mental health sectors. Communications & Marketing Serves as a thought partner to the CEO and execut Apply tot his job Apply To this Job