Job Title: Director of Development

Reports To: Executive Director

Compensation: Commensurate with Experience

Exempt Status: Salaried, Exempt

Commitment Type: Full-Time

Base of Operations: Rockwall, TX

Job Summary:

The Director of Development (DOD) at Patriot PAWS Service Dogs reports to the Executive Director. This role is responsible for cultivating, sustaining, and strengthening relationships with individuals, families, foundations, corporations, and the community to support the mission of providing service dogs to disabled American veterans. The DOD will help potential supporters understand the critical needs of Patriot PAWS and inspire them to respond with donations. This role will focus on donor engagement, foundation partnerships, donor research, event management, and database administration. The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated professional with a proven ability to build strong relationships and secure philanthropic support.

Essential Functions:

• Grow operational funding for Patriot PAWS through charitable donations.
• Develop and implement a donor recognition and stewardship program.
• Keep stakeholders, including individuals, families, foundations, corporations, auxiliary groups, volunteers, and community members informed about the organization's mission, achievements, and needs.
• Create an annual development plan to measure progress, guide fundraising activities and ensure that fundraising goals are met consistently.
• Foster, promote, and maintain effective relationships with constituents and supporters.
• Engage the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and staff in development activities.
• Communicate and coordinate the development plan with the board.
• Manage a donor portfolio and collaborate with the Executive Director and Board to engage them in fundraising.
• Nurture relationships with foundations and grant-giving entities through site visits and stewardship practices.
• Work closely with the Executive Director to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward current and prospective donors.
• Attend capital campaign meetings and actively engage with campaign donors as needed.
• Lead and manage the business development team to ensure effective collaboration, strategic planning, and successful implementation of fundraising initiatives.
• Maintain client/donor confidentiality by handling sensitive information responsibly, following best practices, and adhering to organizational privacy policies and ethical standards.

Job Requirements and Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university or equivalent experience required.

Experience:

• Familiarity with and/or established relationships within the local or regional community.
• 3-5 years of fundraising experience with a proven track record in revenue generation.
• Experience managing a prospect portfolio is preferred.
• Knowledge of grants and foundation work is a plus.
• Excellent planning and time management skills.
• Self-starter who adapts well to changing priorities.

Skills and Abilities:

• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office programs like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to learn web-based and cloud-based software.
• Experience with a CRM or nonprofit database system such as Salesforce.
• Strong interpersonal skills for effective teamwork with staff, board, community professionals, and volunteers.
• High-level verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to multitask and navigate diverse perspectives.
• Strong strategic planning and project management skills.
• Creative, resourceful, and detail-oriented with a positive attitude, good judgment, and cultural sensitivity.
• Ability to maintain professionalism and composure under pressure.

Physical Requirements:

• Sitting, standing, walking, bending, stooping, reaching, squatting, and kneeling.
• Ability to push or pull objects such as tables and chairs.
• Lifting of office materials (up to 25 lbs.).
• Moderate independent travel is required.

Other Information:

• Some evening, weekend, and holiday hours will be required.
• Must maintain confidentiality and present a positive, professional image.
• Travel may occasionally be required for business or educational purposes.
• Must have a valid driver's license.
• Participation in professional development activities is expected.
• Employment is dependent on successful background checks.