Associate Director of Development

About the role

Seattle Humane seeks a collaborative, strategic, and relationship-centered fundraising leader to help advance our mission through transformational philanthropy, donor engagement, and team leadership. As a member of the Development Leadership Team, the Associate Director of Development provides leadership for Seattle Humane's major gifts and planned giving programs. This individual directly leads a team of approximately three frontline fundraising professionals, including Major Gifts Officers and the Planned Giving Officer, while maintaining a select portfolio of major donors and prospects.

Responsibilities

• Build meaningful relationships with donors, supporters, volunteers, and community partners that increase engagement, retention, and philanthropic investment.
• Expand a sustainable pipeline of major gift and planned giving prospects that supports long-term organizational growth.
• Secure significant philanthropic investments that advance Seattle Humane's strategic priorities and mission impact.
• Own and manage portfolio including prospect management.
• Foster a culture of philanthropy that deepens connection to Seattle Humane's work and inspires generosity.
• Lead, coach, and support a team of approximately three frontline fundraising professionals.
• Foster a culture of belonging, accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning where team members can thrive and grow professionally.
• Develop fundraising strategies, systems, and processes that strengthen donor engagement, improve performance, and support long-term sustainability.
• Use data, insights, and forecasting to guide decision-making and evaluate progress toward fundraising goals.
• Serve as a trusted partner to colleagues, board members, volunteers, donors, and community stakeholders.
• Ensure donor portfolios, fundraising activities, and relationship strategies are managed effectively and consistently.
• Promote strong stewardship practices, data integrity, and effective use of fundraising systems.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement that enhance fundraising effectiveness and donor experience.
• Represent Seattle Humane in ways that strengthen community engagement, philanthropic support, and organizational visibility.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in fundraising, preferably in a nonprofit setting.
• Experience managing a team of fundraisers.
• Proven track record of securing significant philanthropic investments.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and fundraising software.

Qualifications

• Exceptional relationship-building and networking skills.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to identify and pursue new funding opportunities.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Passionate about Seattle Humane's mission and impact.

Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
• Experience with donor stewardship and cultivation.
• Knowledge of nonprofit fundraising best practices.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.

Benefits

Seattle Humane offers a competitive compensation package, including health insurance, retirement benefits, paid time off, and opportunities for professional development and growth.

Pay

$100,000 - $125,000 annually.

Schedule

Hybrid schedule – approximately 2 days onsite per week.