Development & Communications Manager

Position Summary The City of Seattle is seeking a Development & Communications Manager for the Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS). The manager will lead fundraising, marketing, and public engagement to advance compassionate care for animals and promote responsible pet ownership. About the City of Seattle FAS is the City’s primary front‑door service, assisting residents with utilities, reporting issues, and adopting pets. The City of Seattle operates 500+ employees across 10 divisions, serving the community through critical functions including city facilities, customer service centers, and equitable contract processes. Job 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. 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. Qualifications 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 in 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. Two years of relevant experience is considered equivalent to the educational requirement. Preferred Experience and Skills Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong storytelling ability. Proficiency in fundraising and CRM software (e.g., Raiser’s Edge, Salesforce, or similar). Skill in social media management tools and analytics (e.g., Hootsuite, Meta Business Suite). Strong organization 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 onsite. Hybrid telework schedules may be considered based on operational needs and City policies. Availability after business hours may be required on occasion. Additional Information This position is classified as a Strategic Advisor 1, Customer Service, Public Information & Promotion. The salary range for this classification is $51.88 – $77.82 per hour. The position is FLSA exempt and is represented by the Civil Service. 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. Further information is available on the City’s benefits website. Equal Opportunity Statement 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr Seattle Finance and Administrative Services