Application Guide

How to Apply for Chief Development Officer 

at Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation

🏢 About Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation

The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation (CCF) is the only U.S.-based nonprofit solely dedicated to fighting bile duct cancer, a rare and aggressive disease. Founded by a family who lost a loved one, CCF has grown into a global leader in patient support, education, advocacy, and research funding, making a tangible impact on a community that is often overlooked. Working here means being part of a mission-driven team that is deeply committed to improving the lives of patients and advancing a cure.

About This Role

As the Chief Development Officer, you will be the strategic architect of CCF's fundraising efforts, shaping the organization's future sustainability and growth. You will lead all development activities, from major gifts to corporate partnerships, and work closely with the CEO and Board to ensure the resources needed to fuel CCF's mission are in place. This role is impactful because your work directly translates into funding for research, patient support programs, and advocacy initiatives that can change outcomes for those affected by cholangiocarcinoma.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve a morning virtual check-in with the development team to review progress on grant proposals and donor outreach, followed by a call with a major donor to discuss a planned gift. Afternoons could be spent analyzing fundraising data to refine strategies, preparing materials for a board meeting, or meeting with the CEO to align on strategic initiatives. You'll also likely spend time researching new foundation prospects and writing tailored proposals to secure funding for research and patient programs.

🚀 Application Tools

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation Is Looking For

  • A proven fundraising leader with extensive experience in nonprofit development, including a track record of securing major gifts from individuals, corporations, and foundations.
  • A strategic thinker who can design and implement a comprehensive, diversified development plan, using data to drive decisions and measure success.
  • An exceptional communicator with strong relationship-building skills, able to inspire donors, board members, and staff alike.
  • A collaborative leader who thrives in a remote environment and can work effectively as part of a leadership team, with a deep commitment to the mission of CCF.

📝 Tips for Applying to Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation

1

Tailor your resume and cover letter to explicitly highlight your experience in rare disease or health-related nonprofits, as well as your success in major gifts and corporate partnerships.

2

Research CCF's current fundraising initiatives and strategic plan, and mention specific ideas you have for growth in your application materials.

3

Quantify your achievements in previous roles (e.g., 'increased annual fundraising by 40%' or 'secured $2M in new foundation grants') to demonstrate your impact.

4

Since the role is remote, emphasize your experience with remote team management and your ability to build relationships virtually.

5

In your cover letter, express a personal connection to the mission—whether through a family member or friend affected by cancer—to show genuine passion.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your strategic vision for development: outline a clear, data-driven approach to diversify revenue streams and expand CCF's donor base.", 'Your experience with major gifts and donor cultivation: provide specific examples of successful solicitations and stewardship.', "Your collaborative leadership style: explain how you've worked with CEOs and Boards to align fundraising with organizational goals.", "Your commitment to the mission: convey why CCF's work resonates with you personally and professionally."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review CCF's website, annual reports, and recent news to understand their current fundraising priorities and achievements.
  • → Look into the cholangiocarcinoma landscape, including key research advancements and patient advocacy efforts, to speak knowledgeably in interviews.
  • → Research the backgrounds of the CEO and Board members to understand their leadership style and priorities.
  • → Check CCF's social media channels to see how they engage with their community and communicate their impact.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach building a major gifts program from the ground up, if needed?
2 Describe a time you turned around a struggling fundraising campaign. What did you do?
3 How do you use data to inform your development strategy? Give an example.
4 How would you engage the Board of Directors in fundraising efforts?
5 What experience do you have with rare disease communities, and how would you leverage that to connect with donors?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid generic cover letters that don't reference CCF's specific mission or programs.
  • Don't underestimate the importance of relationship-building: this role is about people, not just transactions, so avoid sounding too sales-driven.
  • Don't ignore the remote aspect: failing to address how you'll manage a remote team and build donor relationships virtually could be a red flag.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation!

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