Posted on February 22, 2013

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Director of Development

SUMMARY: This position is responsible for the identification, evaluation, cultivation, solicitation and management of individuals capable of contributing major gifts of $25,000 or more. Prepares written proposals, assists volunteer solicitors and matches donor interests with the Zoo's funding needs. Performs related duties required or needed.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

1. Design and implement solicitation, cultivation and stewardship strategies for approximately 150 current and prospective donors capable of giving $25,000 or more.

• Implementing a personalized plan to build relationships with the ultimate goal of solicitation.
• Creatively matching donor interests with Zoo's ongoing programs and project specific capital improvements.
• Recruit and support volunteer and staff solicitors by securing appointments, participating on team visits and facilitating follow-up as deemed appropriate.

2. Increases the donor base of major supporters by networking with current supporters to identify, evaluate, cultivate and solicit prospects who have not previously given to Zoo.

• Create opportunities for donor interaction with Zoo's administration by planning donor tours, outings, dinners and other events.
• Coordinate and oversee maintenance of a major donor tracking system to manage a program of upgrades.
• Work with the Donor Relations Manager to research information pertaining to the background and interest of donors in order to increase their loyalty to our mission.

3. Coordinates a program of special correspondence designed to develop relationships with individuals.

• Oversees personalized acknowledgement of individual gifts which includes both letters, telephone calls and visits as appropriate.
• Prepares formal proposals and stewardship reports.

4. Develops annual budget of income and expense projections. Monitors and reports on budget status.

5. Assists with development of solicitation support materials such as a case statement, tailored proposals and exhibit descriptions.

6. Aids with the development of volunteer recognition activities and naming opportunities that strengthen donor affiliation with the Zoo.

• Oversees and coordinates cultivation and stewardship events with signage as appropriate to gift levels.

7. Participate in planning and implementing gift planning objectives in support of overall departmental goals.

• Collaborates with other development staff members on list development, cultivation activities, support materials and coordinated mailing and communications.
• Submits monthly reports on all activities to VP of Philanthropy, participates in scheduled staff meetings.
• Attends department retreats for shared planning, teambuilding and professional development.
• Is a member of at least one affiliated professional organization and reports back relevant information.
• Works closely with the planned gift team to develop collaborative solicitation strategies.

8. Identify funding trends and ensure fundraising programs and efforts are in compliance with IRS regulations.

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university with preferred emphasis on philosophy, literature or psychology.
EXPERIENCE: Five - ten years of proven success in identifying, cultivating, and soliciting individuals for major gifts. Some proficiency in journalism, public relations or sales.

ADDITIONAL KNOWEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES SKILLS: Public Speaking/presentation skills to effectively represent the Zoo in one to one meetings and in public forums. Ability to perform well in a high-pressure, dynamic environment. Ability to effectively persuade and motivate others. Excellent interpersonal skills/ability to effectively interact with diverse groups of individuals. Excellent organization and writing skills. Knowledge of computer technology, preferably in computer database management; hand-on knowledge of Raisers Edge software, word processing, and spreadsheet essentials.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk, sit, and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

SALARY: Commensurate with experience.

Application Instructions

TO APPLY: Please apply at www.sfzoo.org. Please include a resume and cover letter. EOE.