Job Title: Director of Development and Communications

Reports to: Board of Directors 

POSITION SUMMARY

The Development Director is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing all of Watauga Humane Society (“WHS”) fundraising, including, but not limited to, major gifts, annual fund, planned giving, special events, and communications. The Development Director works closely with the Board of Directors in all development and fundraising endeavors.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Establish relationships and meet with prospective donors and supporters on a continual basis to establish effective communications.
2. Grow a major gifts program including identifying, cultivating and soliciting major donors.
3. Build the planned giving program with a focus on deferred gifts such as bequest expectancies.
4. Direct annual fund programs, including mailings and annual fundraising drives.
5. Oversee special fundraising events.
6. Research and develop grant and foundation fund proposals 
7. Develop strategic fundraising plans and monthly goals 
8. Monitor fundraising goals on a monthly basis to ensure goals are met; devise or revise strategies to ensure goals are achieved. 
9. Manage and supervise organization communications.
10. Oversee creating publications to support fundraising activities.
11. Maintain gift recognition programs.
12. Manage systems and software to track and cultivate donors and prospects, including donor databases.
13. Create and maintain strategic relationships with volunteers, donors, and foundations.
14. Help donors accomplish their philanthropic goals and ambitions through a relationship with our organization.
15. Communicate effectively with volunteers, staff, and the Board of Directors.
16. Demonstrate an understanding and commitment to the success of WHS and its mission and explain it accurately and with enthusiasm.
17. Demonstrate professional conduct at all times.
18. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Work is evaluated by periodic checks for overall effectiveness and results achieved. 

Preferred Qualifications:

1. 5 years experience in professional fundraising
2. Bachelor’s Degree
3. Must embrace the mission of Watauga Humane Society
4. Strong interpersonal and writing skills
5. Strong organizational skills; ability to follow through on tasks and goals
6. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
7. Knowledge and experience in fundraising techniques, particularly major gift fundraising
8. Possess the skills to work with and motivate staff, board members and other volunteers
9. Ability to cultivate and build external relationships in the community; desire to get out of office and network in the community
10. Be a self-starter and goal-driven to initiate donor visits and fundraising calls
11. Ability to function independently and as part of a team
12. Display a positive attitude, show concern for people and community, demonstrate presence, self-confidence, common sense, and good listening abilities
13. Must love animals AND people!

Submit resume, cover letter and 3 references to meghanw@wataugahumane.org