People do not want to hear from the chief fund raising officer about the vision of the institution. A collegial style of leadership makes the full partnership much easier. To be treated as part of a team rather than a person working to reach goals on one's own makes fund raising much more significant. This is all part of the partners in leadership aspect. Certainly the CEO must be committed to the organization.
Donors love to talk and to know that they have been heard.
Moral fiber is essential, along with perseverance and patience. The CEO must be prepared to spend time in pursuit of a gift. Optimism is also important. The ideal CEO always believes success is possible. A sense of humor helps in most situations.