Development & Communications Manager

Development & Communications Manager – Seattle Animal Shelter The City of Seattle is seeking a Development & Communications Manager for the Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS). This position will lead the Shelter’s fundraising, marketing, and public engagement efforts to advance its mission of providing compassionate care to animals and promoting responsible pet ownership throughout Seattle. Responsibilities Development and Fundraising Work with the Executive Director to develop and implement annual and long‑term fundraising strategies that diversify and grow revenue streams. Cultivate, solicit, and steward relationships with individual donors, corporate sponsors, and community partners. Oversee donor recognition programs, ensuring timely acknowledgments, impact reporting, and personalized engagement. Maintain accurate donor and fundraising records in CRM databases (Salesforce, Raiser’s Edge, or equivalent). Lead the planning and execution of SAS fundraising campaigns, appeals, and donor engagement events. Serve as project lead for fundraising events such as the Furry 5K, donor appreciation gatherings, and special adoption or awareness events. Collaborate with the Seattle Animal Foundation and volunteers to identify sponsorship opportunities and grow community investment. Research, draft, and coordinate grant applications and reports. Support development of planned giving and legacy donor programs. Applicants must successfully pass a background check. Communications and Media Relations Serve as SAS’s primary point of contact for media inquiries and opportunities. Draft and distribute press releases, talking points, and media kits in collaboration with City of Seattle Communications. Build and maintain relationships with journalists, influencers, and community media partners to increase coverage of SAS programs, adoptions, and initiatives. Ensure consistent voice, tone, and visual identity across all communications. Develop storytelling assets highlighting SAS’s impact, adoptable animals, volunteers, and community programs. Prepare communication materials for leadership and public appearances. Manage SAS’s social media presence (Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter, TikTok, etc.) with guidance from FAS’ Communications and Marketing Director, ensuring timely, mission‑driven content that engages and educates the community. Develop content calendars, graphics, and short‑form videos that highlight SAS programs, success stories, and events. Monitor analytics and adjust strategy to grow reach and engagement. Assist in oversight and updates to the SAS website and newsletters to ensure accurate, compelling, and current information. Create donor‑ and volunteer‑focused email campaigns that support fundraising and community engagement goals. Collaborate with City of Seattle Digital Communications to ensure ADA compliance and accessibility across platforms. Coordinate logistics, communications, and outreach for fundraising and community events. Work collaboratively with volunteers, staff, and community partners to ensure successful event execution. Represent SAS at community gatherings, adoption events, and donor functions to promote visibility and engagement. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Nonprofit Management, Marketing, or related field. Three (3) years of experience in fundraising, communications, or development—preferably within a nonprofit or public service organization. Proven success in donor cultivation, campaign management, and social media engagement. Experience working with media and managing public relations. Proficiency in fundraising and CRM software (e.g., Raiser’s Edge, Salesforce, or similar). Skilled in social media management tools and analytics (e.g., Hootsuite, Meta Business Suite). Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines. Passion for animal welfare and public service. Animal handling skills and experience working with animals. Creative, collaborative, and strategic mindset. Work Environment This position requires a minimum of three days per week of onsite work. Alternative work arrangements and hybrid telework schedules for office work may be considered based on operational needs and City policies. Availability after business hours on occasion may be required. Compensation This position is classified as a Strategic Advisor 1, Customer Service, Public Information & Promotion. The full salary range for this classification is $51.88 - $77.82 per hour. The position is FLSA exempt and is Civil Service represented. Pay will be dependent on qualifications but is expected to be in the mid‑high range. Benefits The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life, and long‑term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. Equal Employment Opportunity The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, medical condition, or pregnancy. The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ individuals, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experiences. #J-18808-Ljbffr City-of-Seattle