Prevent Child Abuse America - Chief Development Officer

View and Download Full Position Profile

Organizational Overview: Prevent Child Abuse America

Prevent Child Abuse America (PCA America) is the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect before it happens. For more than 50 years, PCA America has worked to create a world where all children and families are living a purposeful and happy life with hope for the future. Through research-informed programs, partnerships, advocacy, and public awareness, PCA America works to strengthen families and communities and create the conditions in which children can thrive.

PCA America advances primary prevention through a nationwide network of state chapters and nearly 600 Healthy Families America home visiting sites, while also leading research, public policy, and public awareness efforts at the national level. Its work brings together science, practice, policy, and community-based services to address the conditions that contribute to child abuse and neglect and promote safe, stable, and nurturing environments for children and families.

Position Summary: Chief Development Officer

PCA America is seeking a Chief Development Officer (CDO) to join at an important moment of growth and organizational evolution. Reporting directly to President and CEO Dr. Melissa Merrick, the CDO will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team and a strategic partner to the CEO, Board, and senior leaders. The CDO will lead PCA America’s fundraising strategy and development team, with a focus on expanding major and principal gifts, strengthening foundation and corporate relationships, growing individual giving, and building a stronger culture of philanthropy. 

This is a strategic and highly relationship-oriented role. The CDO will personally cultivate and solicit donors, manage key relationships, engage Board members as ambassadors and fundraisers, and translate PCA America’s research, policy, and programmatic work into a compelling case for support. As PCA America continues to evolve its role as a national organization, the CDO will also help shape how philanthropy can support and amplify the impact of its broader network.

Position Details

This position is based in Chicago, Illinois, with a hybrid work model. The organization currently has core in-office days on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with additional in-person engagement expected for donor, Board, networking, and organizational activities. The role will require periodic travel, approximately once per quarter, to meet with donors, Board members, partners, and colleagues.

The salary range for this position is expected to be approximately $170,000 to $200,000, commensurate with experience, with flexibility for the right candidate, and includes a competitive benefits package.