Chief Business Development and Advancement Officer

At Aspire Living & Learning, we believe in the power of growth, partnership, and possibility to advance our mission. The Chief Business Development & Advancement Officer (CBDAO) is a key member of Aspire’s Executive Leadership Team and serves as the strategic quarterback for the organization’s external growth — driving affiliations, partnerships, and new opportunities that strengthen Aspire’s long-term sustainability and impact.

Reporting directly to the CEO, the CBDAO leads an integrated portfolio that includes Business Development, Philanthropy, and Advocacy & Government Affairs — with business development as the primary focus. This leader will bring structure, discipline, and strategy to how Aspire evaluates, pursues, and executes growth opportunities, while also shaping the organization’s presence with funders, policymakers, and partners.

This role calls for a relationship-driven strategist who is as comfortable in boardrooms and legislative meetings as they are in program settings. The CBDAO will translate mission into momentum — opening doors to new affiliations, deepening donor and government relationships, and ensuring Aspire remains a strong, forward-looking voice in the human services and IDD landscape.

 

What You'll Do:

Strategic Leadership 

• Serve as a thought partner to the CEO and Executive Leadership Team in driving strategic visibility, growth, and influence. 

• Provide strategic oversight for a unified advancement strategy encompassing philanthropy, advocacy, and business development. 

• Foster cross-organizational collaboration to align external initiatives with Aspire’s mission, strategic plan, and growth goals. 

• Represent Aspire externally, cultivating relationships and partnerships that enhance organizational reputation and impact.  

Business Development 

• Provide strategic direction for identifying and pursuing mission-aligned growth opportunities, partnerships, and new revenue streams. 

• Collaborate with the Director of Business Development to strengthen Aspire’s position in competitive and emerging markets. 

• Oversee the development and negotiation of contracts, service lines, and collaborations that advance Aspire’s mission and financial sustainability.  

Philanthropy & Fundraising 

• Partner with the Director of Philanthropy to design and implement strategies that deepen donor engagement and expand philanthropic investment. 

• Champion a culture of generosity and storytelling that connects supporters to Aspire’s mission and measurable impact. 

• Strengthen Aspire’s capacity for grant acquisition and stewardship through systems, processes, and relationship management.  

Advocacy & Government Affairs 

• Shape and guide Aspire’s advocacy agenda at local, state, and federal levels in partnership with the CEO and state leaders. 

• Cultivate and sustain relationships with policymakers, associations, and coalitions to advance the rights and inclusion of people with IDD. 

• Monitor and respond to legislative and regulatory developments affecting Aspire’s mission and operations.  

Collaboration 

• Partner closely with the Chief People & Culture Officer and the Marketing & Communications team to ensure that advancement strategies, messaging, and storytelling are aligned across all audiences. 

• Collaborate with Finance, Operations, and Clinical teams to ensure business development and fundraising efforts are data-informed, integrated, and sustainable.  

 

Our Ideal Candidate:

• 10+ years of progressive