Posted: Oct 16, 2026
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Chief Development Officer

JCC Mid-Westchester - Scarsdale, NY
Full-time
Salary: $160,000.00 - $170,000.00 Annually
Application Deadline: N/A
Nonprofit

ABOUT JCC MID-WESTCHESTER: At JCC Mid-Westchester (JCCMW), people of all ages and backgrounds come together to connect, learn, grow, and thrive. JCCMW offers arts and culture, fitness and recreation, educational programs, social experiences, human services, and opportunities to explore and celebrate Jewish life in a warm and welcoming community.

Founded in 1955 by 22 families, JCCMW is located on the border of Scarsdale/New Rochelle in Westchester County, New York. Originally a local “Y” organization, over the past seven decades JCCMW has grown into a vital multigenerational community hub supporting the entire lower/mid Westchester community where a talented full- and part-time staff of 300 bring a diversity of experience to their mission, and all are welcome. Over the last several years, JCCMW has made great strides, continuing to grow and evolve during an exciting period of financial, programmatic, and community growth.

Grounded in Jewish values, JCCMW is dedicated to enriching families, building meaningful connections, strengthening community, and helping people lead joyful, fulfilling lives. For more information, please visit jccmw.org.

THE OPPORTUNITY: As a member of the organization’s six-person Leadership Team, the Chief Development Officer (CDO) will take an active role in the strategic direction and planning for the overall organization. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the CDO will lead JCCMW’s key development team at an exciting time of renewal and growth for the organization. The selected candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with an engaged CEO and board and with colleagues across the entire organization to elevate and build upon the organization’s existing philanthropic support and impact for the community.

Leading a team of three to create and implement a comprehensive plan to expand and develop new and deepening existing relationships with key external partners to maximize philanthropic support, the CDO will drive contributed revenue by establishing ambitious fundraising goals, supporting the team to reach them, and engaging the board to maximize their philanthropic support for the organization. The organization has also engaged a leading development consultant to advise and help set strategies for both annual and capital fundraising priorities.

Since joining the organization as Chief Executive Officer in 2022, Elise Dowell, in partnership with President of the Board of Directors Rachel Moseley, has dramatically expanded the organization’s impact through greater community partnerships, increased funding, an expanded Board of Directors, and staff additions. The annual budget has grown from $8MM in 2022 to $18MM+ in 2026.

IDEAL QUALIFICATIONS:

  • A deep personal resonance with the mission of JCCMW and an unwavering commitment to its core values.
  • At least 10 years of experience in a senior fundraising leadership position.
  • A demonstrated track record of success leading and building an innovative, strategic, superior development program.
  • A history of success in major gifts work, including cultivating and closing high-level gifts and knowledge of moves management fundraising.
  • An understanding of the Jewish communal sector and its unique funding sources and challenges.
  • An engaging relationship-builder with portfolio experience of significant donors across all revenue categories.
  • Experience working with a board of directors and senior executives to maximize their engagement.
  • A builder and creative innovator who is able to incorporate new modes of fundraising techniques and strategies.
  • Working knowledge of the Jewish philanthropic community, particularly in Westchester and Greater New York region.
  • The ability to craft persuasive proposals and donor correspondence as well as engaging effectively and appropriately in person.
  • First-rate team leadership and management skills.
  • An understanding of how to use social media to increase brand awareness and drive contributed funds.
  • Ability to understand and navigate the complexities of a multifaceted organization.
  • Ability and willingness to attend evening/weekend activities to cultivate/steward key donors and prospects.
  • Bachelor’s degree required.

The annual compensation range for this role is $160,000-$170,000 commensurate with experience and accomplishments plus attractive benefits including free onsite parking. This is a full-time, in-office role.

JCCMW has engaged the executive search firm of Howe-Lewis International to assist with the search process. Nominations and expressions of interest will be held in confidence and may be emailed to Kirk McDonald at [email protected]

To apply, please click here or visit howe-lewis.com and click on the “Assignments” tab on the top menu. All expressions of interest will be held in confidence.