About Company
Hiring.zycto acts as a strategic partner, connecting exceptional fundraising leadership with impactful non-profit missions. For a Director of Fundraising, we offer a unique pathway to leverage your expertise in a role that directly contributes to vital conservation efforts at an iconic institution. Our commitment lies in fostering environments where visionary leaders can thrive, making a tangible difference in the world. We believe in empowering our placements to build robust philanthropic programs, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth for organizations dedicated to a greater cause. Joining through us means becoming part of a network that prioritizes mission-driven success and professional excellence.
Job Description
We are seeking a dynamic and visionary Director of Fundraising to lead and expand the philanthropic endeavors for a major non-profit partner dedicated to wildlife conservation and education, situated at the renowned Toronto Zoo. This is an unparalleled opportunity to champion an organization’s mission, driving financial growth to support critical initiatives in animal welfare, scientific research, global conservation, and community engagement. As the Director of Fundraising, you will be instrumental in shaping the future of our partner organization’s impact, cultivating a culture of philanthropy, and forging lasting relationships with a diverse donor base.
In this pivotal leadership role, you will be responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing comprehensive fundraising strategies across multiple channels, including major gifts, corporate partnerships, foundation grants, individual giving campaigns, and planned giving. You will manage and mentor a dedicated team of fundraising professionals, empowering them to achieve ambitious targets and foster a collaborative, high-performing environment. Your strategic acumen will guide the creation of compelling cases for support, engaging storytelling that resonates with potential donors, and innovative stewardship programs that ensure donor loyalty and satisfaction.
Working closely with the Board of Directors and senior leadership, you will play a crucial role in enhancing the organization’s public profile and ensuring that fundraising activities align seamlessly with strategic priorities. This position requires a leader with a proven track record of significant fundraising success, exceptional interpersonal skills, and a genuine passion for conservation. If you are a results-oriented fundraiser eager to make a profound difference in protecting wildlife and inspiring future generations, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, execute, and continually refine a comprehensive, multi-year fundraising strategy to meet and exceed annual revenue targets.
- Lead, motivate, and manage a team of fundraising professionals, fostering professional growth and high performance.
- Cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of major individual donors, corporate partners, and foundation funders.
- Oversee the planning and execution of capital campaigns, special events, and annual giving initiatives.
- Prepare compelling proposals, presentations, and reports for current and prospective donors.
- Collaborate with the Board of Directors, senior management, and program teams to integrate fundraising efforts with organizational goals.
- Analyze fundraising data and market trends to inform strategic decisions and identify new opportunities.
- Ensure all fundraising activities adhere to ethical standards and comply with relevant regulations.
- Represent the organization at community events, donor meetings, and industry conferences to enhance visibility and engagement.
Required Skills
- Minimum 8 years of progressive experience in fundraising leadership, with a strong emphasis on major gifts, corporate giving, and foundation relations within a non-profit setting.
- Demonstrated success in achieving ambitious fundraising goals and managing significant revenue targets.
- Exceptional leadership and team management abilities, with a track record of inspiring and developing staff.
- Superior written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and persuasive writing.
- Proficiency in CRM databases, preferably Raiser's Edge or similar donor management software.
- Strategic planning and analytical skills, with the ability to translate data into actionable fundraising strategies.
- Financial acumen, including budget development and management.
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Business Administration, Marketing, Communications).
Preferred Qualifications
- Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) designation.
- Experience in a zoo, conservation, environmental, or cultural non-profit organization.
- Proven experience with successful capital campaigns.
- Existing network of philanthropic connections within the greater Toronto area.
- Master's degree in Non-profit Management, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits package.
- Generous paid time off and holidays.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
- Employer-matched retirement savings plan.
- Meaningful work making a direct impact on wildlife conservation and education.
- On-site parking and access to employee wellness programs.
- Employee discounts on park admissions, merchandise, and food.
How to Apply
To seize this exciting opportunity and contribute to a world-class conservation effort, please click on the application link below. We encourage all qualified candidates to submit a detailed resume and cover letter outlining their relevant experience and passion for this role. We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.