Careers

One Tail at a Time PDX is currently seeking a Development Director.

Development Director

Location: Hybrid

Reports to: Executive Director

About Us:
One Tail at a Time PDX (OTAT PDX) is dedicated to addressing the shelter crisis for companion animals, focusing on rescuing and rehoming at-risk dogs in need. We strive to create a better world for animals through a community-centered approach, relying on passionate supporters and dedicated volunteers. As we continue to grow, we are looking for a driven and strategic Development Director to lead our fundraising efforts and help raise $1M annually to support our life-saving mission.

Position Summary:
The Development Director will play a critical role in leading the organization’s fundraising strategy, working to generate $1M+ annually through individual donations, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, and community events. This role will involve cultivating relationships with major donors, sponsors, and partners, as well as overseeing volunteer teams supporting development efforts. The Development Director will also work closely with the Executive Director and staff to engage board members, volunteers, and the wider community to maximize fundraising success and increase support for our mission. This position reports directly to the Executive Director.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Fundraising Strategy:

    • Develop and execute a comprehensive annual development plan to meet revenue goals, including strategies for individual giving, monthly donor programs, and grants.

    • Identify, cultivate, and solicit donations from major individual donors, corporate sponsors, and foundations.

    • Secure gifts across all funding streams, confidently asking for and closing donations.

    • Implement strategies for donor retention and growth, including increasing monthly giving and creating personalized donor journeys.

  • Donor Cultivation & Stewardship:

    • Build and maintain strong relationships with donors, sponsors, and partners, ensuring effective stewardship.

    • Regularly communicate with donors through personalized updates, reports, and appreciation to reinforce their impact on our mission.

    • Develop targeted campaigns and messaging to engage both new and existing supporters.

  • Volunteer Oversight:

    • Recruit, train, and manage volunteers to assist with fundraising activities, peer-to-peer fundraising, grant writing, community outreach, and donor engagement events.

    • Empower volunteers to take an active role in fundraising, providing them with the tools and resources they need for success.

  • Event Planning & Coordination:

    • Lead the planning and execution of donor engagement events, such as galas, benefit walks, auctions, and virtual campaigns, ensuring a high-quality experience for attendees and maximum fundraising impact.

    • Coordinate event logistics, including sponsorship outreach, volunteer support, and event marketing.

  • Data Management & Reporting:

    • Utilize CRM tools (Network for Good, GiveSmart, or similar platforms) for tracking donor data, prospect research, and reporting on campaign performance.

    • Provide regular reports on fundraising progress to the Executive Director and board, identifying trends and opportunities for strategy adjustments.

    • Ensure all donor information is accurately entered and maintained in the database for future engagement.

  • Board & Staff Support:

    • Collaborate with the Executive Director, board members, and staff to integrate fundraising goals into the overall organizational strategy.

    • Provide resources, coaching, and support to board members, staff, and volunteers, helping them effectively engage donors and solicit gifts.

  • Marketing & Communications:

    • Lead the creation and implementation of marketing campaigns to attract new donors, retain current supporters, and raise awareness of our mission.

    • Develop compelling content for donor communications, social media, and fundraising materials to build excitement and engagement.

    • Use video and digital content (including social media reels and posts) to tell our story and promote fundraising efforts.

Qualifications:

  • Experience:

    • 5-7 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising or a related field, with a proven track record of meeting or exceeding revenue goals.

    • Strong background in managing development programs, including individual giving, corporate sponsorships, and grant writing.

    • Experience managing donor databases and using CRM tools such as Network for Good, GiveSmart, or similar platforms.

  • Skills:

    • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to make compelling asks and write persuasive donor appeals, grant proposals, and reports.

    • Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

    • Strong relationship-building skills and the ability to work effectively with donors, board members, staff, and volunteers.

    • Comfortable leading and motivating volunteer teams to support development efforts.

    • Knowledge of social media platforms and experience creating digital content, including videos and social media reels for fundraising.

  • Passion for the Mission:

    • A deep commitment to the mission of OTAT PDX and passion for animal welfare.

    • Enthusiasm for addressing the shelter crisis and advocating for companion animals.

Preferred:

  • Experience with video editing and creating content for social media platforms.

  • Familiarity with nonprofit marketing and donor retention strategies.

Additional Details:

  • Work Schedule: Full time. Schedule hours are flexible but must be consistent. Regular collaboration with the Executive Director, other staff members, board members, and volunteers is required.

  • Compensation: Competitive salary based on experience (pay range is $70-75k). Benefits include health insurance, PTO, and opportunities for professional development.

How to Apply:
Please submit your resume, cover letter, and a writing sample (such as a grant proposal or donor appeal) to admin@otatpdx.org. OTAT PDX is looking to fill this position immediately and will accept applications on a rolling basis.

OTAT PDX is an equal-opportunity employer and values diversity in its workforce. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.

This is a dynamic, mission-driven opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of animals in need. If you’re an experienced fundraising professional passionate about animal welfare, we’d love to hear from you!

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