Director of Development & Communications

Director of Development & Communications Animal Protection Society of Durham (APS) – Durham, NC Make an Impact Where Compassion Meets Community The Animal Protection Society of Durham (APS) is seeking an experienced, strategic, and relationship-driven Director of Development & Communications to lead our fundraising, donor engagement, and community outreach efforts. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate nonprofit professional to help advance animal welfare by securing the philanthropic support needed to sustain and grow APS's life‑saving programs. As a key member of the leadership team, the Director of Development & Communications will oversee all fundraising activities, donor stewardship, grant development, corporate partnerships, special events, and communications strategies while serving as an ambassador for APS throughout the community. What You’ll Do: Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy. Lead annual giving, major gifts, grants, sponsorships, planned giving, and special campaigns. Cultivate and steward relationships with donors, foundations, corporations, and community partners. Establish fundraising goals, metrics, and performance benchmarks. Donor & Community Engagement: Build meaningful relationships with supporters and stakeholders. Conduct donor meetings and solicit major gifts. Oversee donor communications, acknowledgments, and impact reporting. Represent APS at community events and networking opportunities. Grants & Corporate Partnerships: Research and pursue grant opportunities. Oversee grant writing, submissions, and reporting. Develop innovative partnerships that support APS's mission and strategic goals. Leadership & Operations: Supervise and mentor a team of development professionals. Oversee donor database management and fundraising reporting. Ensure compliance with fundraising policies and best practices. Utilize data and analytics to drive decision‑making and fundraising success. What We’re Looking For: Required Qualifications: Minimum of five (5) years of fundraising experience. At least three (3) years of development leadership experience. Demonstrated success securing major gifts of $25,000 or more. Strong donor cultivation and relationship‑building skills. Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills. Experience with donor management databases (CRM systems). Preferred Qualifications: Experience working with nonprofit boards, committees, and volunteers. Background in communications, marketing, or nonprofit management. Passion for animal welfare and community impact. Why Join APS? At APS, you'll join a mission‑driven team dedicated to improving the lives of animals and the people who love them. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, collaborative workplace where innovation, compassion, and community engagement thrive. Equal Opportunity Employer: APS of Durham is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law. 401(k) Employee assistance program Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Vision insurance Apply Today: If you are a strategic fundraiser who enjoys building relationships, creating community impact, and advancing meaningful causes, we encourage you to apply. Submit your resume and cover letter for consideration. #J-18808-Ljbffr