Director of Development

Director of Development

Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico (Hybrid; ~25% on-site) Reports To: Chief Executive Officer Department: Development Classification: Full-Time, Exempt, People Leader

About Santa Fe Animal Shelter

Santa Fe Animal Shelter is Northern New Mexico's largest no-kill animal welfare organization, committed to supporting animals, saving lives, and spreading compassion. We are entering a pivotal chapter focused on financial sustainability, innovation, and community partnership-and we are seeking a strategic leader to drive both philanthropic and earned revenue initiatives.

About the Role

The Director of Development will lead a diversified revenue strategy that includes philanthropy, planned giving, major gifts, grants, mission-driven events, corporate partnerships, and alternative revenue channels such as retail/resale and earned income initiatives.

This role is ideal for a strategic thinker who understands that long-term impact requires both community generosity and smart revenue innovation. You will be a key advisor to the CEO, a culture leader, and a coach to a development team focused on growth, accountability, and creativity.

Key Leadership Responsibilities

• Champion a culture of resource generation-ensuring staff, leadership, volunteers, and board members understand their role in sustaining our mission.
• Lead, mentor, and grow the Development Team with strong systems, clear goals, and a collaborative mindset.
• Design and execute a comprehensive revenue strategy that includes:
  • Major gifts and annual giving
  • Planned giving programs
  • Foundation and corporate grants
  • Mission-aligned community events
  • Retail/resale and earned revenue ventures
  • Strategic partnerships and sponsorships
• Develop and manage the Development budget with data-driven decision-making and forecasting.
• Collaborate closely with the CEO on board presentations, strategic positioning, and case-building.
• Build and steward donor, partner, agency, and community relationships across Santa Fe and beyond.

What You Bring

• 10 years of progressive leadership in development, advancement, or a related revenue-generating field
• 5 years managing people, budgets (minimum $3M), and operational strategy
• Experience generating $5M annually through diversified revenue channels
• A strong understanding of both traditional philanthropy and innovative earned revenue models
• Ability to use metrics, data, and storytelling to drive strategic decisions
• Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and leadership presence
• Commitment to living and engaging in the Santa Fe community as part of this relationship-based role

Why This Role Matters

The Director of Development will play a central role in shaping a resilient and future-focused Santa Fe Animal Shelter. This is an opportunity to build a blended revenue model that honors community generosity while unlocking sustainable new income opportunities to support lifesaving work.

If you believe that development is about both generosity and strategy, about community connection and smart innovation, we'd love to talk.