Director of Development

Overview

Location:

Rancho Santa Fe, CA
• Full Time

Salary: $120,000 - $140,000 (Commensurate with experience)

Helen Woodward Animal Center is seeking an experienced, strategic fundraising leader to serve as Director of Development. This senior role provides leadership across all fundraising and donor engagement efforts and plays a key role in advancing the Center's mission and long-term sustainability.

• Lead the strategy and execution of a comprehensive fundraising program that strengthens philanthropic revenue and donor relationships
• Partner with the Vice President of Development to set annual goals, monitor progress, and refine strategy based on performance
• Provide oversight for all development programs including direct mail, major gifts, planned giving, foundation support, Classy campaigns, e-newsletters, and donor stewardship
• Identify new revenue opportunities while strengthening existing fundraising streams
• Manage a portfolio of key donors and prospects through cultivation, solicitation, and thoughtful stewardship
• Build strong relationships with executive leadership, board members, and staff to expand philanthropic impact
• Oversee direct mail and digital campaigns, coordinating messaging, photography, and creative needs
• Ensure donor communications and recognition efforts are accurate, timely, and impactful
• Support the planning and execution of signature events including Fling, PAWMICON, Surf Dog, Telethon, and other Center initiatives
• Lead planned giving efforts including pet guardianship and bequests
• Research grant opportunities, manage the grant calendar, and ensure timely proposals and reporting
• Partner with the Vice President of Development to develop the annual development budget and establish realistic fundraising goals
• Serve as a presenter for The Business of Saving Lives conferences and maintain fundraising presentations throughout the year
• Manage Remember Me Thursday programming, including team coordination and project tracking
• Lead, mentor, and develop the Development team, fostering a culture of accountability and growth
• Ensure compliance with ethical fundraising practices and Center policies
• Represent Helen Woodward Animal Center at donor events, community functions, and public engagements

• A bachelor's degree is required; an advanced degree or CFRE certification is preferred.
• Seven to ten years of progressively responsible development experience, including three to five years in a leadership capacity.
• Proven track record of developing and executing effective fundraising strategies that drive revenue growth, as well as meeting or exceeding goals for major gifts, donor cultivation, and stewardship.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential. Proficiency with donor databases and reporting tools is required.
• The candidate must exercise discretion and sensitivity when handling confidential information and demonstrate strong organizational skills, sound judgment, and the ability to manage competing priorities while working both independently and collaboratively.
• Must have a valid driver's license and the ability to use a personal vehicle for occasional work-related travel. Must be available to staff major events, as well as other events as needed. Regular and consistent attendance is required.

Generous benefits include:

• Employer Sponsored Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance
• Retirement Plan with Employer Sponsored Match
• Discount & Referral Program
• Paid Time Off