Chief development officers (CDOs) lead the design and implementation of strategies to identify funding sources needed to finance the growth and development activities of organizations. They work directly with the senior management team to plan, review, and revise the company's development programs.

CDO: Chief Development Officer CDO stands for Chief Development Officer. CDO reports to a senior executive and is primarily in charge of developing a detailed strategy for all fundraising, communication, and community relations efforts.

The CDO role has evolved to occupy a prominent position within the organization, ideally located at the C-suite level or one level below, reporting to the CEO or COO.

They will oversee all human resources functions and ensure that all stages in the employment life cycle promote the goals and values of the organization. The Chief OD Officer also assists program leaders to develop effective budgets according to their respective human resource needs.