Development Director

Provide strategic leadership and support to fundraising efforts and oversee the day-to-day operations of fundraising development including oversight of the administration, programs, and fundraising activities of the organization.

• Oversee and support Houston Audubon’s annual major fundraising events(Avian Affair fundraising dinner, Birdathon and Evening on the Canopy) working in coordination with the Senior Development Associate –including budget development, vendor contracts, underwriting solicitation, and leadership recruitment
• Plan and oversee donor-related cultivation and stewardship events throughout the year
• Cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of individuals, corporations, and foundationsboth existing supporters and new funding sources
• Work with the President & CEO and senior leadership to understand program goals, develop funding priorities, develop specific requests as opportunities become available, and write compelling grant proposals tailored to those opportunities
• Manage corporate partner program
• Provide strategic direction and short- and long-range planning in the context of growing annual giving
• Develop and oversee year-end and other major fundraising appeals throughout the year
• Provide leadership, management, support, and mentorship to a team of 1-2 skilled and dedicated staff
• Represent Houston Audubon in the community and be comfortable discussing Houston Audubon’s mission pillars with a variety of audiences
• Participate in relevant board meetings and committees; collaborate with the President & CEO and Controller to develop an annual development plan corresponding with a budget that outlines revenue and expenses; monitor progress against goals and produce monthly reports to be shared with the Board of Directors