Chief External Affairs Officer

Role Overview

• Lead fundraising, government relations, and strategic public relations and communications efforts
• Provide strategic leadership across major and principal gifts, government relations, marketing and communications, and public affairs
• Serve as a frontline major gift leader with a record of securing significant philanthropic investments
• Build and manage a major gifts pipeline with clear metrics, accountability, and results-focused outcomes
• Oversee corporate partnerships, foundation relations, public funding, and grant partnerships
• Partner with the CEO and Board of Directors to advance donor engagement and strategies
• Provide strategic leadership for GSNNJ’s Fund Development function
• Foster a strong culture of philanthropy across the organization
• Provide strategic leadership for GSNNJ’s marketing and communications functions
• Oversee media relations, public relations campaigns, and crisis communications strategy
• Monitor public policy trends and funding opportunities impacting Girl Scouts
• Support representation efforts in coalitions, advocacy initiatives, and civic forums

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred in communications, public affairs, public policy, nonprofit leadership, or a related field
• 15+ years of experience with fundraising, external affairs, government relations, and strategic partnerships
• Proven record of personally securing major and transformational gifts
• Demonstrated experience engaging with government entities, public funding sources, and advocacy or policy initiatives
• Strong understanding of public-sector environments and stakeholder engagement
• Exceptional executive presence, relationship-building, and communication skills
• Strategic thinker with the ability to balance vision with hands-on execution
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing organizational growth
• Preferred community connections within G SNNJ’s jurisdiction (Bergen, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, or Warren counties)
• Membership in GSUSA is required upon employment and annually thereafter (cost covered by GSNNJ)
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including some evenings and weekends
• Valid driver’s license, reliable automobile and auto insurance
• Ability to travel throughout the jurisdiction to attend meetings during the day/evening/weekend

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401k retirement plan with employer match
• Paid time off for vacation, sick days, and holidays
• Offices closed for winter holiday break
• Parental leave benefits
• Life, disability, accidental and critical illness insurance
• Legal and pet insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Professional development opportunities
• Flexibility and a supportive and inclusive work environment