Chief Advancement Officer

The Animal Humane Society is seeking a Chief Advancement Officer (CAO) responsible for leading and expanding comprehensive and sophisticated fundraising programs to build sustainable, long-term public and financial support for the organization. Reporting directly to the CEO, this role provides strategic and leadership guidance across multiple departments and functions, including Individual Giving, Planned Giving, Corporate Giving, and Stewardship and Advancement Services. The CAO serves as the lead executive responsible for building a sustainable fundraising culture that is seamlessly integrated with the organization’s mission, vision, and core values while adhering to sound business practices and ethical standards.

Salary: $170,000 - 220,000 annually based on experience

Schedule/Location:

• Full Time, Hybrid

• Location: This is a hybrid position based out of our Golden Valley and will require travel to our other locations in Minnesota, and any outside events. Subject to change as business needs dictate. Must live in or have easy access to the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.

Essential Functions:

Strategic Planning:

• Provide leadership and strategic direction for philanthropic strategies that engage AHS constituents to build long-term, sustainable financial support for the organization.
• Establish, monitor, and meet annual budget goals (revenue and expense) for individual, corporate, foundation, and planned gifts.
• Oversee the development, execution, and analysis of strategies to identify, cultivate, grow, retain, and steward fundraising revenue from all sources.
• Oversee the development, execution, and analysis of capital campaign strategies, including strategic gift and recognition opportunities.
• Partner with the CEO to manage the fundraising-related activities of the Board of Directors.
• Stay informed about philanthropic trends and implement new strategies as necessary.
• Develop and manage the annual operating budget for Advancement.

Donor Relations and Fundraising:

• Lead the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of major donors and key supporters.
• Oversee the planning and execution of fundraising events, including donor recognition, campaigns, and initiatives.
• Establish and nurture a diverse donor base by engaging with key stakeholders, donors, corporations, and foundations.
• Manage an individual portfolio of donors, ensuring the appropriate cultivation and solicitation strategy for each donor.

Data Management and Reporting:

• Maintain robust data systems to track donor engagement, fundraising goals, and financial outcomes.
• Analyze donor trends and fundraising metrics to assess the success of advancement efforts and identify opportunities for growth.
• Provide regular updates and reports to the CEO and Board of Directors on fundraising progress, goals, and challenges.

Leadership:

• Serve as a member of the senior leadership team and assist in developing and implementing organizational strategy.
• Play a key team role in guiding the organization's direction, achieving its strategic and financial objectives, and developing its culture.
• Provide supervision, coaching, and development to direct reports as noted on the organizational chart, acknowledging accomplishments and providing regular feedback.
• Conduct one-on-one meetings with direct reports to ensure team members have the resources and support to be successful.
• Address and resolve any issues or conflicts within the team.
• Review and approve timecards and requested time off within payroll deadlines, working closely with employees to resolve discrepancies.
• Complete revenue/expense reports as required by Finance.

Communication and Culture:

• Communicate positively and professionally with donors, customers, employees, and volunteers.
• Promote a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion to make AHS a welcoming environment for all.
• Act as a public representative of AHS both internally and externally.

Technology:

• Monitor AHS email and other messaging software.

Other duties as assigned.

Additional Information:

Schedule and Attendance:

• Regular, predictable attendance, punctuality, and availability to work during operational hours.
• Attend and participate in regular team meetings, leadership meetings, all-staff meetings, and one-on-one meetings with direct leader.
• May be required to attend occasional off-site meetings and events.

Work Environment:

• Primarily office/desk-based.
• Adjacent animal shelter areas may be humid, noisy, or odorous.

Qualifications:

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of leadership experience in nonprofit fundraising, development, or advancement, including at least 5 years in a senior-level role.
• Proven track record of successfully meeting revenue goals, securing major gifts over $25,000, and leading comprehensive fundraising strategies.
• Experience with donor management systems and using data to inform decisions.
• CFRE accreditation and experience with Raiser’s Edge fundraising software preferred.

Skills:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences.
• Strong understanding of fundraising strategies, best practices, relevant laws, and ethical guidelines.
• Strong administrative, organizational, and project management skills.
• Strong multi-tasking, conflict-resolution, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient with computers, specifically a working knowledge of Microsoft products.

Physical Demands:

• Prolonged sitting at a desk.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 10 lbs.

Emotional Demands:

• Must be comfortable with the emotional aspect of work in an animal shelter environment, including the use of humane euthanasia.

Transportation:

• Reliable transportation is required.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required for this role. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

About AHS 

Every year, Animal Humane Society provides direct care and services to help thousands of animals in need across Minnesota. 

As one of the nation's leading animal welfare organizations, AHS is transforming the way shelters care for animals and engage their communities. From innovative medical and behavior programs to investments in outreach and advocacy, we’re advancing animal welfare and creating a more humane world for animals everywhere. 

Why Work Here  

• Make a difference in the lives of animals and people  
• Join a team of coworkers who love animals as much as you do  
• Work-life balance  
• Unique animal adoption benefits and discounts on veterinary care, pet supplies, and animal training classes   
• Health insurance coverage for full time staff includes the following: medical, dental, vision, health savings account, flexible spending account for health care expenses and dependent care, voluntary accident insurance, and employee ­paid supplemental life, accidental death & dismemberment and long term disability insurance.  
• Employer paid benefits for full time staff includes the following: basic life insurance, basic accidental death and dismemberment insurance, short-term disability  
• Support for student loans: we are a Public Service Loan Forgiveness qualified employer 
• Mental Health and Counseling Support: all employees have access to our Employee Assistance Program with 3 free counseling sessions per year  
• 401(k) for part-time and full-time staff  
• Nine paid holidays for full-time staff  
• Paid floating holidays for part-time and full-time staff (up to 4 days per year based on start date)  
• Paid Time Off for part time and full time staff (amount is based on hours worked and FTE status)  
• Paid parent leave for full-time staff  

 Our Organizational Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: 

As an organization dedicated to making the world a more humane and compassionate place for animals, we know that people are at the heart of all that we do. Animal Humane Society’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusivity is essential to our mission and shapes our culture, our work, and the services we provide. 

At AHS we embrace and honor the inherent dignity and diverse experiences of our team members, volunteers, board members, partners, clients, and visitors, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ability, or income. Working together to instill equity and inclusivity within our organization will allow us to better serve the people and animals of Minnesota, and ultimately have a positive impact on animals in our care.