RIZE Massachusetts Foundation (RIZE) seeks a dynamic and strategic Chief Advancement Officer (CAO) to lead fundraising, external communications, and constituency engagement in support of its mission to end the overdose crisis in Massachusetts. Launched in 2017, RIZE is the only public-private partnership solely dedicated to funding and collaborating on innovative solutions to end the overdose crisis in Massachusetts. Guided by those with lived experience and unafraid of new ideas, RIZE is building networks, designing programming, and supporting community partners who are using novel approaches to preventing overdose and increasing access to treatment. Since its inception, RIZE has awarded $21+ million to more than 275 organizations aligned with its mission.

In 2024, the Healey-Driscoll Administration chose RIZE to create and manage the Mosaic Opioid Recovery Partnership (Mosaic), a public-private initiative funded by the MA Opioid Recovery and Remediation Fund and the MA Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Substance Addiction Services. Through Mosaic, RIZE will award $5 million annually in grants to community-led and culturally responsive programs focused on prevention, harm reduction, access to care, recovery, trauma, grief, and family supports, prioritizing historically underserved communities and populations with high opioid-related overdose rates. In addition to grant funding, RIZE provides technical assistance and learning opportunities tailored to the specific needs identified by grantees, to strengthen their organizations and develop sustainability. This comprehensive support facilitates effective implementation of initiatives and the building of more resilient communities.

Position Summary

In this highly visible leadership position, the CAO plays a pivotal role in developing and executing a comprehensive strategy that drives sustainable philanthropic support, aligns external communications, and strengthens partnerships. Reporting to the CEO and serving as a key member of the senior leadership team, the CAO builds and manages a diverse portfolio of individual, corporate, foundation, and government funders to expand engagement and increase revenue. In addition to leading all fundraising programs, the CAO oversees marketing communications initiatives to enhance brand visibility and advance RIZE’s mission.

Qualifications Summary

BA/BS (advanced degree preferred).
10+ years’ progressive fundraising experience, with the ability to develop and implement integrated strategic plans across fundraising, marketing communications, and external relations.
Proven success securing significant gifts (5+ figures) from individual, corporate, and foundation donors.
Strong leadership, collaboration, and relationship-building experience across diverse stakeholders.
Exceptional written and interpersonal communication skills.
A strategic, tech-savvy mindset and ability to work in an outcomes-driven, high-impact environment.
Desire to advance RIZE’s mission and vision.

Hybrid work schedule; remote and onsite at 101 Boylston Street, Boston, MA.

RIZE MA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

This is a retained executive search of Exceptional Executive Search.

RIZE MA

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Chief Advancement Officer