For more than a century, the Brookings Institution has helped shape public policy through independent, nonpartisan research and rigorous analysis. Brookings brings together leading scholars, policymakers, and influential voices to address pressing challenges facing the United States and the world. Its research spans economic opportunity, democratic institutions, global security, and emerging issues such as artificial intelligence governance, informing decisions that affect communities and societies worldwide.

Guided by its five-year strategy, Partnering for Impact, Brookings is strengthening the connections between its research, institutional resources, and public influence. The strategy advances four central goals: developing smarter economic growth strategies, expanding economic and social opportunity, revitalizing democratic institutions, and advancing peace and security worldwide.

The Opportunity

The Brookings Institution seeks a visionary and accomplished Vice President and Chief Development Officer to shape the next era of philanthropy at one of the world’s most influential public policy institutions.

Following the integration of its fundraising operations into a unified institution-wide model in 2025, Brookings is positioned to expand its philanthropic reach, deepen donor relationships, and secure the flexible, long-term resources necessary to advance its mission.

Reporting directly to President Cecilia Elena Rouse and serving on the Executive Leadership Team, the CDO will lead a 36-person development enterprise, including five senior leaders. This executive will establish a comprehensive, multi-year fundraising strategy, strengthen principal and major giving, and cultivate transformative partnerships with individuals, foundations, and corporations. The CDO will connect philanthropic investment with Brookings’ ambitious policy agenda while preparing the institution for a significant future fundraising campaign.

The opportunity calls for a sophisticated relationship builder and organizational leader who can pair strategic vision with disciplined execution. They will help ensure that Brookings has the resources and relationships to sustain its independent research and expand its impact on public policy for generations to come.

The salary range for this position is $450,000 to $525,000.