The Humane Society of Central Texas is seeking an experienced relationship-builder and fundraiser to serve as its next Director of Development. This position presents an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of a growing foster-based animal welfare organization. The Director of Development will lead all fundraising efforts, build meaningful donor relationships, strengthen community partnerships, and establish systems and strategies necessary to sustain and grow HSCTX’s impact throughout Central Texas.
About the Humane Society of Central Texas
The Humane Society of Central Texas (HSCTX) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to building a Central Texas where every animal gets a second chance and every family has the support they need to stay together. Since transitioning to a foster-based rescue model in late 2024, HSCTX operates without a traditional shelter facility, delivering lifesaving outcomes through a foster network, Human-Animal Support Services (HASS), a Pet Supply Pantry, and community outreach programs (e.g., microchipping events, adoption events). We are seeking a visionary Director of Development to shepherd the organization into its next chapter of growth, which includes strengthening our fundraising infrastructure, managing our budget with precision, and deepening our community partnerships. We are an organization that is entirely donor-funded, HSCTX depends on a bold vision and disciplined execution for a strong financial foundation.
Position Summary
Reports to the Board of Directors (the Board), the Director of Development is responsible for leading the HSCTX’s fundraising strategy and revenue growth, with a primary focus on building systems and processes for donor acquisition, stewardship, and long-term philanthropic support. The Director of Development is responsible for establishing clear fundraising priorities, building donor relationships, implementing stewardship systems, and ensuring that marketing and communications activities support fundraising objectives. This position provides strategic leadership and oversight of HSCTX’s development, fundraising and marketing functions, and is accountable for achieving HSCTX’s annual fundraising goal.
Key Responsibilities
Fundraising & Development (Primary)
- Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy with diverse revenue streams to achieve annual and multi-year revenue goals.
- Develop a monthly giving program.
- Lead major gift strategy, including identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of key donors.
- Build and manage systems for donor retention, acknowledgment, and long-term relationship development, including donor recognition initiatives.
- Provide strategic oversight of all donor relations and communications, fundraising campaigns, appeals, events, and community engagement.
- Oversee grant strategy with staff member(s) responsible for research, writing, and reporting.
- Direct and evaluate fundraising campaigns, appeals, and events to ensure strong return on investment.
- Develop and manage corporate sponsorships and community partnerships.
- Establish metrics and reporting systems to track fundraising performance and donor trends and ensure consistency in donor records and timeliness of communications.
- Serve as HSCTX’s public face at community events, in media appearances, and with key stakeholders
Budgeting & Strategic Planning
- Play an active role in budget planning and monitoring development expenditures.
- Participate in strategic planning and contribute to organizational goals.
- Ensure adherence to approved budgets and responsible use of resources.
- Set department goals tied to annual fundraising targets.
Strategic Oversight of Marketing and Communications
- Provide strategic oversight of all marketing and communications efforts to ensure alignment with fundraising priorities.
- Set annual communications priorities, messaging strategies, and campaign goals in coordination with the Board.
- Review and approve major marketing materials, campaigns, and public-facing content.
- Ensure consistency with brand standards and organizational messaging.
- Oversee production of the annual report and key fundraising material.
- Manage staff members responsible for HSCTX social media platforms and websites; marketing campaigns; and promotional and print materials.
General Leadership and Management
- Take ownership of HSCTX’s fundraising strategy to meet annual and long-term revenue goals and build organizational sustainability.
- Establish fundraising and development goals, timelines, and accountability measures.
- Ensure all development and communications activities follow best practices and the relevant HSCTX policies.
- Hire, train, and develop staff, interns, and volunteers.
- Monitor staff performance and conduct/contribute to periodic evaluations.
- Provide meaningful feedback and coaching to staff.
Required Qualifications
- 3-5 years of professional experience, with at least 3 years in fundraising or development leadership.
- Demonstrated track record of success in fundraising, development, grant writing, and grant portfolio management.
- Experience with donor stewardship, major gifts, fundraising campaigns, or events.
- Strong command and understanding of financial statements (e.g., profit and loss statements).
- Strong organizational, project management, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills; comfortable serving as a public spokesperson.
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or equivalent professional experience
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in nonprofit or animal welfare organizations.
- Experience managing development or marketing staff.
- Experience developing and overseeing organizational budgets.
- Familiarity with donor databases and CRM systems.
- Certification in fund development (CFRE) or nonprofit management is a plus.
Personal Qualities
- Strong relationship builder with donors, staff, volunteers, and partners.
- Self-motivated strategic thinker.
- Capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Professional judgment, maturity, and discretion.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary: $65,000 - $85,000 annually, DOE
- Classification: Full-time, exempt position under the FLSA
- Potential for a merit-based bonus tied to organizational fundraising and programmatic outcomes
- Employer contribution toward health insurance premiums (details provided upon offer)
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Puppy and kitty cuddles
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter describing their relevant experience and interest, and names with contact information for three professional references to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. This position is open until filled. We encourage qualified candidates to apply promptly.
The Humane Society of Central Texas is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. Employment with HSCTX is at-will, as permitted under Texas law.
Pay: $65,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
