Director of Development

Background Guided by the mission “to provide compassionate care for animals through sheltering, rehabilitation and rehoming while serving as a resource and knowledge center for the people and animals of our community,” the Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County (HSVB) is a no‑kill, open admission shelter. HSVB also provides spay/neuter services and wellness care to owned animals in the Vero Beach community through quarterly clinics and behavior training for pets, as well as providing pet food and emergency shelter for pets of first responders and residents with special needs during mandatory evacuations in the event of a hurricane. HSVB generates approximately $6 million in annual revenue, with charitable contributions accounting for 75% of funding and an additional 5% provided through the HSVB Foundation. Key fundraising efforts include the organization’s signature event Cause for Paws, direct mail appeals, year‑round digital campaigns, and additional revenue generated by two thrift store locations. Legacy gifts and planned giving play a vital role in sustaining shelter operations while supporting long‑term growth through foundation investments. As HSVB looks to the future, the organization recognizes the need to strengthen its financial and organizational capacity and is implementing a renewed development strategy designed to expand philanthropic support and position the organization for a future capital campaign to grow its shelter footprint. Position HSVB is seeking an exceptional and seasoned fundraising professional to become its next Director of Development and prepare the organization, Board and other stakeholders for the eventual capital campaign. The new Director of Development will be capable of identifying, cultivating, engaging, and stewarding existing donors and new prospects, managing fundraising events, and serving as a development advisor to the Board and staff. The DOD connects HSVB’s community of adopters, donors, volunteers, and staff to its mission in meaningful ways throughout the year. They will be successful at building and maintaining relationships and partnerships with stakeholders and serve as a passionate advocate for the work of HSVB, with a strong emphasis on community relationship‑building and philanthropic growth to bring the wider Vero Beach community to support the work of HSVB. The ideal candidate will bring a track record of success in planning and executing major gift campaigns, and an ability to craft compelling donor‑centered narratives. HSVB is looking for a highly motivated self‑starter with excellent organizational and interpersonal skills, capable of balancing strategic planning with hands‑on execution in a fast‑paced, mission‑driven environment. An understanding of the philanthropic landscape of Vero Beach is a plus. Specific Responsibilities Partner with the CEO and Board to develop and implement a comprehensive, sophisticated fundraising plan that will advance HSVB’s fundraising goals, assist with the cultivation of major gifts, strengthen the pipeline, and increase donors’ affinity with the mission. Lead, develop and implement fundraising strategies to increase the breadth and depth of foundation and corporate support. Maintain and deepen donor relationships through regular communication, stewardship, and solicitation. Manage, revise, and evaluate strategies for annual giving and planned giving. Oversee planning and implementation of all fundraising events. Collaborate with and manage the work of committees, task forces, and working groups. Craft a "Case for Support" for use in press kits and a donor prospectus, individualized proposals with specific gift amounts, and other fundraising materials. Leverage community resources, partnerships, and relationships to help build awareness of and support for HSVB. Enhance and manage digital visibility and social media to significantly augment fundraising for maximum return and efficiency. In collaboration with the CEO, lead the development team to improve HSVB’s fundraising infrastructure—data management, gift processing, office procedures and event management—to ensure the staff, systems, processes and activities meet ongoing development needs. Oversee and maintain accurate financial records and budgets for development‑related programs and events. Create reports and analyze department activities, metrics, and impact. Manage and mentor a small staff including a Development Associate, Administrative Assistant and others; work with consultants, contractors, and board members in a collaborative and constructive manner. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree; minimum of 5 years professional fundraising experience. Track record of success in developing and implementing fundraising plans, as well as cultivating and stewarding donors. Strong interpersonal skills and proven ability to form strategic relationships both internally and externally, including with a highly committed and active Board. Ability to interact professionally with internal and external stakeholders who have diverse backgrounds, professional skills, and perspectives. Outstanding oral and written communication skills. Skilled in 360° communication style for brand, core values and critical principles to facilitate consistency and development of all stakeholder groups. Creative, strategic thinker with excellent project management and cross‑functional fundraising skills. Ability to work collaboratively with staff, fostering collegiality and a positive work culture. Demonstrated success in working with a committed volunteer pool. Analytical, organized, proactive, and detail‑oriented with strong ability to prioritize. Well‑honed fundraising operations skills, including the ability to critically evaluate fundraising efforts. Proficiency in Office suite, Donor Management software, and digital media platforms. Ability to live and work in Indian River County; willingness to work outside of standard working hours, including early mornings, evenings, and/or weekends when needed. Commitment to the mission of the Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County, Inc. Must have a love for animals and people! Benefits Salary in range $110k to $120k, depending on experience. 21 paid leave days per year, plus additional sick and paid holidays; health, dental, and vision plans; 401k participation. Low‑cost wellness and routine care for staff pets provided by the HSVB veterinary clinic. Travel locally and within the state of Florida about 30% of the time; role is onsite. EEO Statement The Humane Society of Vero Beach & Indian River County is a not‑for‑profit, equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse, culturally sensitive work environment and prohibits discrimination due to race, color, ethnicity, age, religion, sexual orientation, sex/gender, gender identity or disability. All are encouraged to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr