Description
Grand Lodge of Massachusetts
Chief Development Officer, Boston, MA
Position Description
About the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts and Freemasonry
Freemasonry is the world’s oldest and largest fraternity. It is comprised of adult men (18+) of good character from every country, religion, race, age, income, education, and opinion. Its body of knowledge and system of ethics is based on the belief that each man has a responsibility to improve himself while being devoted to his family, his faith, his country, and his fraternity.
Overlooking Boston Common is the majestic headquarters of the Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts. One of the oldest institutions in downtown Boston, the building at 186 Tremont Street is the third Grand Lodge structure erected on the site. Built in 1898, it houses many treasures of great historical significance. It has six meeting halls, a research library dedicated to Freemasonry, and the administrative offices for the Grand Lodge and other Masonic bodies and programs.
The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts dates back to 1733. It was the first in the New World, and the third oldest following the Grand Lodges of England and Ireland. Formally organized under the leadership of Henry Price, Boston’s first Masons met at the Bunch of Grapes Tavern. Freemasons have been building better men and better communities ever since.
From its earliest days, charity has been the most visible Masonic activity. Freemasons have always been devoted to caring for disadvantaged children, the sick, and the elderly. In fact, Masons in North America give away approximately $3 million to national and local charities each day, of which more than 70% is directed toward the general public. Masons are also actively involved in a great deal of community volunteer work.
More information on the History of Freemasonry.
The Opportunity
This is a unique opportunity to build and lead a growing development function at a member-based, mission-driven organization poised for growth.
The Chief Development Officer (CDO) will partner closely with the Grand Lodge leadership and Development Committee of the Board of Directors to design and execute a multi-year fundraising strategy, establish key systems and relationships, and position the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts for future campaign readiness.
This role is ideal for an entrepreneurial, strategic, relationship-driven leader who is energized by building programs, creating structure, and expanding impact. The CDO manages a small staff of 1-2 team members.
Position Summary
The Chief Development Officer is a senior leader responsible for overseeing all aspects of fundraising and related communications.
Reporting to the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, the CDO will establish and grow a comprehensive development program, with a focus on major gifts, annual giving, and planned giving. The CDO will play a critical role in building a culture of philanthropy, strengthening member/donor relationships, and positioning the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts for an upcoming building campaign and 2033 Tricentenary celebration.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
Develop and implement a multi-year fundraising strategy aligned with the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts’s strategic and capital priorities.
Partner with the Leadership of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts and the Development Committee to advance fundraising goals and community visibility.
Help build and sustain a strong culture of philanthropy across the Board and membership.
Lead the development of a clear and compelling case for support.
Fundraising & Revenue Growth
Build and lead a major gifts program, including identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
Manage a portfolio of donors and prospects.
Oversee and grow all fundraising streams, including annual fund, events, corporate sponsorships, and planned giving to support current priorities and build the endowment.
Identify new funding opportunities and strategic partnerships, including an expanded planned giving program.
Support planning for future capital and comprehensive campaign efforts.
Board & Volunteer Engagement
Serve as the primary staff partner to the Board and Development Committee on fundraising initiatives.
Partner with the Grand Lodge leadership to strengthen Board engagement and accountability in fundraising.
Support and guide volunteer-led fundraising and community engagement efforts.
Communications & External Relations
Oversee messaging and communications strategy to support fundraising and visibility.
Ensure consistent, compelling messaging across donor materials and outreach channels.
Represent the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts in the community to build relationships and increase awareness.
Operations, Finance & Infrastructure
Establish systems, processes, and metrics to track fundraising performance.
Oversee donor database (CRM) strategy and reporting.
Develop and manage the development budget and revenue projections.
Partner with finance to ensure accurate tracking and reporting of contributions.
Ensure adherence to fundraising best practices and ethical standards.
First-Year Priorities
Assess current fundraising landscape and opportunities.
Build an initial major donor pipeline and strengthen donor engagement practices.
Establish foundational systems, processes, and performance metrics.
Partner with Grand Lodge leadership and Development Committee to clarify fundraising roles and expectations.
Lay the groundwork for future campaign readiness.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree required.
10+ years of nonprofit fundraising experience, with increasing leadership responsibility.
Demonstrated success in building donor relationships and securing 6- and 7-figure major gifts.
Experience leading or supporting capital campaigns, strongly preferred.
Proven ability to develop and execute comprehensive fundraising strategies.
Strong leadership and team management experience.
Experience building and working with Boards and engaging volunteers in fundraising.
Proficiency with donor databases/CRMs and data-driven decision-making.
Excellent communication, relationship-building, and presentation skills.
Ability to work both strategically and hands-on.
Knowledge of or background in Freemasonry preferred but not necessary.
Commitment to the charitable mission and community impact of Freemasonry.
Additional Expectations
Availability for occasional evenings and weekends for events and meetings.
Active presence in the community as a representative of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Compensation
The recruiting range for this position is $135,000 - $150,000, commensurate with experience.
Comprehensive benefits include:
Medical and Dental Insurance with HRA Benefits
Competitive 401(k) Retirement Plan
Group Life Insurance & supplemental coverage options
Paid time off, holidays, personal days & sick day accrual
Subsidized Parking
Other Information
This is a hybrid role with a minimum of three days in the office.
Application Information
Please submit your cover letter and resume to George Hayeck, Business Manager, Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts, 186 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111, [email protected] . We encourage candidates who may not meet every listed qualification but are excited about the role and mission to apply.
