Director of Development & Strategic Partnerships

About Paws of Honor, Inc.

Paws of Honor is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing veterinary care and support - at no cost -to retired military and law enforcement canines who have served our country and communities. These courageous K9s put their lives on the line in service, and now it is our turn to ensure they enjoy a healthy, dignified retirement.

Our support also helps relieve the financial burden placed on their handlers, who often assume full responsibility for the dog's care after retirement. Our motto, "Two Heroes, One Leash," reflects the lifelong bond between canine and handler. Both have sacrificed in service, and both deserve continued care and recognition.

Join a passionate and growing team committed to honoring the service of these four-legged heroes and the people who stood beside them.

Position Summary

Paws of Honor seeks an experienced and driven Director of Development & Strategic Partnerships to expand our major gifts and corporate giving programs.

This is a high-impact, relationship-centered role ideal for a results-oriented fundraiser who excels at connecting mission to meaning—and inspiring transformational gifts from individuals and companies who care deeply about veterans, law enforcement, and animals.

Reporting to the Executive Director, this person will serve as the organization’s lead relationship builder with high-net-worth donors, foundations, and corporate partners, while also strengthening the systems and strategy to sustain long-term growth.

This position offers significant leadership growth potential as Paws of Honor continues to expand its programs and impact.

Key Responsibilities

Major Gifts & Donor Cultivation

• Identify, qualify, cultivate, and solicit donors capable of giving $10,000 annually.
• Develop individualized cultivation and stewardship strategies for top prospects.
• Manage a personal portfolio of major donors and prospects, with clear revenue and activity goals.
• Partner with the Executive Director and Board to engage and solicit their networks.

Corporate & Strategic Partnerships

• Design and lead a corporate sponsorship and partnership program that aligns business interests with Paws of Honor’s mission.
• Develop sponsorship packages, pitch decks, and partnership proposals.
• Manage relationships with corporate sponsors, ensuring timely recognition and measurable ROI.
• Identify opportunities for workplace giving, cause marketing, and event sponsorships.

Fundraising Strategy & Campaigns

• Develop and execute an annual fundraising plan with defined metrics for growth in major gifts, corporate, and foundation revenue.
• Support the Executive Director in preparing donor materials, presentations, and impact reports.
• Coordinate with communications staff to craft compelling donor stories and campaigns that showcase impact.

Events & Donor Engagement

• Partner with staff and volunteers to execute high-visibility fundraising events and donor cultivation experiences.
• Ensure events are strategically aligned to deepen relationships and expand the major donor pipeline.

Data, Reporting, and Systems

• Maintain accurate donor and prospect data in the CRM.
• Track progress toward goals, prepare regular reports, and use data to inform strategy.

Qualifications

Required:

• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in nonprofit fundraising, with at least 2 years focused on major gifts or corporate sponsorships.
• Demonstrated success securing five- and six-figure gifts from individuals and/or corporations.
• Exceptional relationship-building, presentation, and communication skills.
• Strategic thinker who is comfortable managing both big-picture strategy and hands-on execution.
• Proficiency with donor CRM systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Passion for animal welfare, veterans, or law enforcement causes.

Preferred:

• Experience developing or leading a corporate partnership or sponsorship program.
• Familiarity with Williamsburg, Richmond, or Washington, D.C. philanthropic networks.
• Experience with NetSuite or similar donor management systems.
• AFP membership or CFRE credential (or willingness to pursue).

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Benefits Package.
• Health benefits available upon request
• Paid vacation and holidays.
• Flexible, hybrid work environment.
• Professional development opportunities (AFP membership, conferences, etc.).
• The chance to make a direct, visible impact in the lives of America’s retired canine heroes.

To Apply

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and a summary of your fundraising achievements (including major gifts or corporate partnerships secured) to Info@PawsofHonor.org.