Helen Woodward Animal Center · 1 day ago
Director of Development
Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Director/Executive
$120K/yr - $140K/yr
7+ years expHelen 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.
Animal FeedEducationNon ProfitVeterinary
Hiring Manager
Tony Dominguez, SHRM-CP, PHRca
Responsibilities
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
Qualification
Required
A bachelor's degree is required
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
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
Preferred
An advanced degree or CFRE certification
Benefits
Employer Sponsored Health, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance
Retirement Plan with Employer Sponsored Match
Discount & Referral Program
Paid Time Off
Company
Helen Woodward Animal Center
Helen Woodward Animal Center is a non-profit firm that provides educational and therapeutic programs along with and adoption opportunity.
51-200 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Heather Hayman
Recruitment and Partner Supervisor
Recent News
2025-10-01
2025-09-07
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