Chief Development Officer

The Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL), North America’s oldest private research laboratory, seeks an experienced, strategic, and collaborative individual to serve as its next Chief Development Officer (CDO). Recognized as one of the great international labs for research and education in the life sciences, the MBL has for over 135 years drawn many of the world’s most accomplished researchers across a variety of disciplines, including 60 Nobel Laureates.
 
 The MBL is one of six research institutions in Woods Hole including the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, the Woods Hole Research Center, NOAA Fisheries, Sea Education Association, and USGS.
 
The MBL is known for pushing the boundaries of science, pioneering new fields, and establishing the careers of generations of leading scientists. MBL’s research and education programs are renowned for their convening power and resulting seminal discoveries in biological research. This vibrant, year-round institution provides resident and visiting science programs and a growing portfolio of education courses. Research done at the MBL spans subject areas including cell and developmental biology, climate and environmental science, evolutionary biology, genetics and genomics, regenerative biology, neuroscience, microbial ecology, and physiology. Building on its historic strengths, the MBL is committed to strategic growth in the areas of imaging innovation and the development of novel, genetically tractable, research organisms for the advancement of science. 
 
 Over the years, the MBL has cultivated strong relationships with diverse donors, including foundations, corporations, individuals, and governmental agencies, securing substantial support for its cutting-edge research and education programs. Reporting to the Director and serving as a core member of MBL’s leadership team, the CDO will craft and implement a strategic philanthropic plan to raise $150 million over the next five years and to lay a foundation for sustained philanthropic success that matches the vision and scope of MBL programs. This is a tremendous opportunity for an experienced, bold and creative development executive to play a critical leadership role in advancing MBL’s reputation and resources. To this end, the CDO will guide a current team of six individuals in the creation and execution of a strategic development plan that leverages creative initiatives and collaborations. They will also work closely with a dedicated Board of Trustees, including a seasoned Development Committee. As an independent research institute with many academic partners, there is great opportunity for the MBL to expand its connections with academia and foundations to attract funding to advance biological research and education. As such, the CDO is presented with a unique opportunity to both build upon MBL’s existing foundation of fundraising success while defining new strategies for elevated and sustainable philanthropic growth.
 
 The ideal candidate should be a self-starter with an innovative approach to growing and guiding a philanthropic program in basic scientific research. They will bring a track record of success raising significant philanthropic support for an organization while also building its constituency, as well as prior success raising major and principal gifts and increasing the effectiveness of a development program through established objectives and performance standards linked with organizational initiatives and goals. They will possess the communication skills required to articulate the vision and mission of a program to a diverse group of funding organizations and individuals in clear and compelling language. A background in science is desirable; a passion for science is required. 
 
COMPENSATION AND LOCATION
 
 The annual salary range for this position is $225,000 to $275,000. The stated hiring range represents the institution’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the possible compensation at the time of posting.
 
 Jack Gorman is leading this search with Ellen Egitton and Sandeep Kaur. 
 
The Marine Biological Lab (MBL) does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, or veteran status, and does not discriminate against members of protected classes under the law.