Development Director

Position Title: Development Director

Reports To: ASF Board Chair (transitioning to Executive Committee oversight)
Location: Tallahassee, FL (remote)
Status: Full-time, Exempt

About the Animal Shelter Foundation (ASF)

The Animal Shelter Foundation (ASF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Tallahassee, Florida, dedicated to improving the quality of lives of homeless animals in the care of Tallahassee Animal Services, and helping to reduce pet overpopulation through education and ASF’s affordable spay and neuter clinic, Tally Spay. ASF has operated for 19 years as an all volunteer-led organization and is now seeking its first Development Director to lead the organization into its next chapter of impact and sustainability.

Position Summary

The Development Director will be the lead fundraiser of ASF’s next chapter, establishing the organization’s first formal development program. This position will shape and implement a multi-channel fundraising strategy, deepen donor relationships, and support event and campaign revenue efforts to grow ASF’s impact.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy & Program Building

• Create and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan for ASF, grounded in long-term sustainability and diversified revenue
• Lead, manage and expand current and future giving programs (e.g., Tally Spay naming opportunities, kennel plaques, Lifesavers, Planned Giving, etc.), and for legacy donors, and mid-level supporters
• Oversee donor database transition and segmentation to support strong donor cultivation and retention
• Lead stewardship strategies including acknowledgment, impact reporting, and donor recognition initiatives
• Help position ASF for grant readiness and identify appropriate foundation opportunities

Donor Development & Cultivation

• Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with individual donors, local businesses, foundations, and sponsors
• Serve as the lead relationship manager for top-tier donors and prospects, connecting them to ASF’s impact and vision
• Craft compelling cases for support, giving opportunities, and sponsorship materials
• Manage and grow a donor pipeline, ensuring timely communication and cultivation milestones

Events & Campaigns

• Support sponsor cultivation and planning for Pints for Paws, Spare-A-Life Funday, and Tails & Trails
• Serve as Giving Tuesday lead starting in 2026, developing messaging, assets, and team coordination
• Oversee and support peer-to-peer, seasonal, and social media-driven campaigns (e.g., Valentine’s Heartworm Help)

Marketing, Partnerships & Community Engagement

• Partner with the Board and volunteers to strengthen ASF’s brand storytelling across platforms
• Represent ASF at events, community presentations, and sponsor meetings
• Collaborate with local businesses and community organizations to expand awareness and reach
• Engage and support volunteers, alumni, and rescue partners in fundraising and ambassadorial roles

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of successful nonprofit fundraising or related experience
• Strong relationship-building and communication skills, with a donor-centric mindset
• Experience managing donor databases/CRM systems
• Track record of leading or supporting special events and sponsor relationships
• Exceptional writing, storytelling, and presentation skills
• Highly organized, self-directed, and comfortable in a lean, hands-on nonprofit environment
• Deep compassion for animals and alignment with ASF’s mission

Work Environment & Expectations

• This is a full-time, flexible role based in Tallahassee with work-from-home
• Occasional evening/weekend work for events or donor meetings
• ASF offers a supportive culture, autonomy, and the opportunity to shape a high-impact role from the ground up

Compensation

ASF offers a competitive salary ($65,000-$80,000) commensurate with experience, plus a flexible work environment and the opportunity to help a growing organization continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals in our community.Additional benefits: Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, Healthcare stipend, performance-based bonuses

To Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to kathy@animalshelterfoundation.org by March 20, 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Pay: $65,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Tallahassee, FL 32301