Application Guide
How to Apply for Chief of Development
at Clean Air Task Force
🏢 About Clean Air Task Force
Clean Air Task Force (CATF) is a unique nonprofit that combines deep technical expertise with pragmatic policy advocacy to drive the rapid deployment of low-carbon technologies. Unlike many environmental organizations, CATF focuses on achieving real-world emissions reductions by advancing a portfolio of solutions, including advanced nuclear, carbon capture, and superhot rock geothermal. Working here means being part of a mission-driven, globally influential team that values innovation and impact over ideology.
About This Role
As Chief of Development, you will architect and lead CATF's global fundraising strategy, overseeing a multi-stream revenue approach that includes major gifts, institutional funding, and foundation partnerships. This role is critical to scaling CATF's influence and ensuring long-term financial sustainability, directly enabling the organization to accelerate the transition to a zero-emissions future. You will work closely with the CEO and board, shaping high-level donor relationships and guiding a team to meet ambitious growth targets.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might start with a check-in with your development team on progress toward quarterly targets, followed by a strategy session with the CEO on a pending $5M foundation proposal. Midday, you could be hosting a virtual briefing for a group of high-net-worth donors on CATF's latest geothermal project, then reviewing a draft legacy giving solicitation. The afternoon might involve analyzing donor data to refine segmentation, ending with a call with a European partner about a joint funding opportunity.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Clean Air Task Force Is Looking For
- A seasoned fundraising executive with 15–20 years of progressive leadership, ideally including experience scaling an organization's revenue from $50M+ to $100M+.
- Deep expertise in U.S. philanthropic fundraising (10–15+ years) with a proven track record of cultivating and closing seven-figure gifts from high-net-worth individuals and foundations.
- International fundraising experience is highly valued, particularly in Europe or Asia, to support CATF's global expansion.
- Strong people manager who has built and led high-performing development teams, with excellent strategic thinking and the ability to balance long-term vision with tactical execution.
📝 Tips for Applying to Clean Air Task Force
Highlight specific examples of multi-year fundraising strategies you've developed and the measurable impact on organizational growth (e.g., revenue increase, donor retention rates).
Emphasize any experience with unrestricted revenue strategies and 501(c)(4) fundraising, as CATF Action is a key affiliate.
Showcase your network among philanthropic leaders in climate and energy, especially those focused on technology innovation and policy change.
Tailor your resume to demonstrate both strategic leadership and hands-on fundraising execution, as the role requires both.
In your cover letter, explicitly connect your personal passion for climate action to CATF's unique technology-focused approach.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Your alignment with CATF's mission to drive rapid deployment of low-carbon technologies through pragmatic, evidence-based approaches.", 'Concrete examples of how you have built and executed successful fundraising strategies that scaled organizational revenue and influence.', "Your experience in both U.S. and international philanthropic landscapes, and how you can leverage that to expand CATF's global reach.", 'Your leadership philosophy for managing and inspiring a development team, with an emphasis on collaboration and innovation.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Read CATF's latest annual report and strategic plan to understand their current funding priorities and growth trajectory.
- → Review their blog and media coverage to grasp their key campaigns (e.g., on methane, advanced nuclear, carbon capture) and policy wins.
- → Look into the backgrounds of the CEO (Armond Cohen) and board members to understand their networks and fundraising culture.
- → Explore CATF Action's website to understand the 501(c)(4) affiliate's structure and how it complements the main organization.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't emphasize general environmental advocacy experience without a clear focus on technology and policy—CATF is distinct from traditional green groups.
- Avoid being vague about your fundraising numbers; be prepared to discuss specific revenue targets and outcomes.
- Don't overlook the importance of unrestricted fundraising; CATF values flexibility in funding, so show you can drive that.
📅 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:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Clean Air Task Force!