Director of Philanthropy & Special Gifts - Full Time - San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a nonprofit international conservation leader, committed to inspiring a passion for nature and creating a world where all life thrives. Empowering people from around the globe to support our mission to conserve wildlife through innovation and partnerships, we support cutting-edge conservation, and bring the stories of our work back to our two world-famous front doors — the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park — giving millions of guests, in person and virtually, the opportunity to experience conservation in action. The deep and extensive knowledge gained from more than a century of experience in wildlife care, health, veterinary services, nutrition and conservation makes us invaluable in the global effort to save species. Our team members play a crucial role in driving our conservation efforts forward and bringing us closer to a world where all life thrives.


HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Director of Philanthropy & Special Gifts is responsible for building scalable strategies to grow, retain, and upgrade annual donors giving up to $25,000, while supporting a strong pipeline toward major and planned gifts. This position is also responsible for the strategy and execution of the President's Club, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's top-tier annual membership program.

In addition, the Director collaborates with the Marketing team to coordinate comprehensive direct response appeals and membership programming. This position reports to the Chief Philanthropy Officer and closely collaborates with the Senior Director of Philanthropy as well as major gift, planned giving, and events staff.

WHAT YOU WILL DO
• Identify, cultivate, steward and solicit a dedicated portfolio of high potential donors.
• Develop and oversee a strategic plan that focuses on growth and donor lifetime value through comprehensive programming, personalized communications, and outreach for mid-level donors, top tier members and monthly donors.
• Lead President's Club annual membership program including development and execution of strategy, member acquisition, renewals, upgrades, stewardship, benefits and member events, using donor analytics, segmentation and testing to inform strategy and measure performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure consistent messaging, donor experience, and integration with broader organizational and philanthropic priorities
• Oversee and support the Direct Response Fundraising Manager, ensuring strong performance across multi-channel campaigns and recurring giving efforts, including onsite canvassing.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to Philanthropy Specialist and Philanthropy Associate supporting their professional growth and ensuring alignment with departmental goals.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
We’re seeking a strategic and results-driven fundraising professional to lead and grow our mid-level donor, high tier membership and direct response programs. The ideal candidate brings 5-7 years of experience in cultivating and upgrading donors, designing data-driven engagement strategies, and driving revenue growth. They will excel at leading donor and membership initiatives, leveraging CRM tools to inform strategy, and inspiring teams through clear communication and strong leadership. A passion for mission-driven work and a commitment to building lasting donor relationships are essential for success in this role.

JOB EXPERIENCE
• Minimum of seven years or related professional experience in a fundraising/development unit or department within a complex non-profit organization required.
• Five years or more experience in developing a mid-level program to reflect the mission and vision of a major organization required.
• Three years or more of experience managing a team required.
• Three years or more experience working within a complex fundraising environment, such as a major health science organization or large university with multiple campuses and programs preferred.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
• Bachelor's degree in related field required.
• Advanced degree in related field preferred.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
• Must have knowledge of IRS regulations related to fundraising.
• Able to operate moderately complex computer software program.
• Able to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• Must be able to handle highly complex situations with a high level of tact and diplomacy.
• Demonstrated ability to lead highly effective, diverse teams.
• Able to prepare and present to large groups of people.


SOME OF THE PERKS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER
• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Family Passes
• Complimentary Tickets
• Local and In-House Discounts
• Employee Assistance P