May 29th, 2026
Lifeworks Services, Inc.
About the Organization
As a trusted partner in disability services since 1965, Lifeworks Services Inc. is working to make disability inclusion the standard, not the exception.
From grassroots beginnings, Lifeworks has evolved alongside people with disabilities and their families, supporting over 9,000 people annually. Lifeworks provides straightforward solutions that help people connect with the support and resources they need at home, at work, and in the community.
In collaboration with employers, organizations, and government agencies, Lifeworks is creating communities that are more inclusive of people with disabilities.
The organization operates four Lifeworks Centers for Disability Inclusion locations in:
Apple Valley
New Hope
Mankato
Richfield
Its reach extends to 69 of Minnesota’s counties, partnering with a network of more than 450 businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations.
Through its core services:
More than 540 people receive Employment support
More than 260 people connect with their communities through Day Support
More than 2,780 Minnesotans self-direct their in-home care through Lifeworks
In 2024, Lifeworks began offering disability inclusion and consulting services, educating more than 9,300 individuals since launch.
As an advocate for disability inclusion, Lifeworks is resolutely committed to self-determined support, careers with competitive wages, and developing innovative opportunities that enhance everyday lives.
The Lifeworks leadership team and employees embrace a common set of core values to guide their work:
You Lead the Way. We Listen.
We honor choice and pursue opportunities with community at the heart of our work.
Together, We Break Down Barriers.
We seek diverse perspectives, advance accessibility, and encourage a sense of belonging for all.
We Focus on Impact.
We hold ourselves to the highest standards. We share expertise and collaborate to find solutions that address the whole picture.
We Reinvent What’s Possible.
We take chances and welcome the unknown. We learn from the past and lean into the future.
2025–2028 Strategic Plan Priorities
Continuous Improvement Culture: Foster an inclusive and high-performing culture
Scalable Infrastructure: Modernize physical assets, service delivery, and IT systems
Advancing Universal Disability Inclusion: Champion disability inclusion across communities, workplaces, and policies
Access and Expansion: Expand to underserved geographies and populations
Please visit www.lifeworks.org for additional information.
Job Description
Position Overview
The Chief Advancement Officer (CAO) is a senior executive at Lifeworks, responsible for leading the organization’s development and marketing teams as a key member of Lifeworks’ leadership team.
The CAO will be instrumental in cultivating a culture of generosity and community investment across the organization, working closely with both executive leaders and the Board of Directors.
The CAO will bring a broad and integrated perspective to both development and marketing, generating multifaceted value in support of the mission.
The CAO will be a passionate champion for Lifeworks’ advancement vision, leading the design and implementation of fundraising strategy, capital campaigns, and special funding initiatives that attract and steward the financial resources required to fulfill the organization’s mission.
Beyond fundraising, the CAO will provide strategic leadership across both development and marketing/communications, ensuring a unified and compelling message to all stakeholders.
The CAO is expected to be highly engaged in the funding community and a contributor to increasing the visibility and enhancing the perception of Lifeworks, both regionally and nationally.
Key Skills and Experience Required
5+ years of experience as a top-level executive, including experience as an engaged member of an executive team
Demonstrated success developing and implementing a cohesive advancement strategy that integrates development and marketing functions with measurable impact on brand visibility, stakeholder engagement, and revenue growth
5+ years of successful staff management and development, including leading leaders
Experience building and elevating organizational brands, increasing market visibility, and positioning an organization as a recognized thought leader within its sector
Proven ability to develop strategic partnerships with corporate, community, government, and philanthropic stakeholders that generate both financial support and long-term organizational value
Strong experience identifying growth opportunities, expanding market reach, and developing innovative revenue streams aligned with organizational mission and impact
Strong executive presence and relationship-building skills with the ability to influence across corporate, philanthropic, civic, and governmental sectors
Experience with campaign leadership, annual giving programs, and development operations
Experience working with a Board of Directors
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including presentation and public speaking; enjoys discussion and debate
Current, active network of high-level donors, emerging donors, and foundation leadership in Minnesota preferred
Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred
Fundraising certification such as CFRE or ACFRE preferred
Contact email for applicants Mary.Abiadal@doranleadership.com