AWHC is seeking a strategic and experienced Development Director to lead fundraising efforts, with a focus on major gifts. This role involves planning and executing a comprehensive strategy, collaborating on digital fundraising, and engaging directly with donors. It’s a full-time remote position with travel, and preference will be given to candidates based in the Western U.S.

ABOUT AMERICAN WILD HORSE CONSERVATION

American Wild Horse Conservation (AWHC) is the nation’s leading conservation organization dedicated to preserving freedom and habitat for the iconic wild horses and burros of the American West. With a $3.4 million budget, a 100% Charity Navigator rating, and a groundbreaking, humane population management program, AWHC is setting new standards in wild horse and burro protection. We are also strengthening legal protections through robust policy work, restoring vital habitats through our land trust, and engaging grassroots advocates via a dynamic awareness campaign.

Our work is guided by our core values of Integrity, Grit, and Humanity—we hold ourselves accountable to the highest ethical standards, approach challenges with determination and resilience, and ensure that compassion drives our mission forward.

Headquartered in Davis, California, with teams in key western states and in Washington, DC, we are seeking a passionate and innovative leader to join our mission-driven organization.

POSITION SUMMARY 

AWHC is looking for an experienced, creative, and dedicated Development Director who is deeply committed to animal and wildlife protection. Reporting to the Executive Director and serving as a senior member of our leadership team, you will design and execute a comprehensive, multi-year fundraising strategy that drives donor engagement, expands our supporter base, and fuels our conservation initiatives.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to directly shape our fundraising efforts—ranging from major donor cultivation and corporate partnerships to grant management and digital fundraising—in a supportive, collaborative, and mission-focused environment. This full-time, primarily remote position (with a preference for candidates in or near the Pacific Time Zone) is perfect for someone eager to make a lasting impact through strategic leadership and innovative development practices.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute a multi-year fundraising and engagement plan that creates a diverse and sustainable income base through major gifts, family foundations, planned giving, grants, corporate sponsorships, and more.
• Collaborate closely with the Executive Director and the Board’s Development and Marketing Committee to drive board engagement and support fundraising initiatives.
• Cultivate a donor-centric culture that reflects our mission and values, staying current on the latest trends in fundraising and philanthropy.
• Represent AWHC at key donor meetings, events, and public speaking engagements to enhance our profile and build lasting relationships.

Fundraising

• Design and implement a structured program to foster strong relationships with both individual and institutional donors.
• Set clear standards for donor targeting, moves management, stewardship, and recognition to maximize impact.
• Personally drive fundraising through direct solicitations and support the Executive Director and leadership team in high-stakes donor engagements.
• Create and launch innovative planned giving and corporate partnership programs while collaborating with our communications team to enhance digital fundraising efforts.
• Oversee our grants program, including managing a dedicated grant writer, and contribute to the strategic planning of fundraising events and volunteer initiatives.

Management

• Lead the planning and execution of high-profile fundraising events such as galas, auctions, and donor appreciation functions.
• Build and mentor a high-performing development team as resources allow, setting metrics to track progress and ensure accountability.
• Partner with the Executive Director to develop and manage the annual fundraising budget and actively participate in leadership team meetings to drive overall organizational success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and 6+ years of relevant experience in nonprofit development.
• CFRE certification is highly preferred.
• Proven experience working with nonprofit boards and managing donor acquisition and retention programs, including multi-year campaigns.
• Strong managerial and leadership skills, with a track record of driving significant fundraising results.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, Google Suite, Slack, and Canva.
• Experience with EveryAction or equivalent CRM platforms.
• Ability to conduct advanced research using internet resources and a readiness to travel up to once per month for 2-3 days (primarily within the Pacific and Mountain time zones).
• A demonstrated commitment to animal/wildlife conservation, equine protection, and to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion.

TRAVEL  

Approximately once per month for 2-3 days within the US. Most travel will be in the Pacific and Mountain time zones.

American Wild Horse Conservation (AWHC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, political affiliation, parental status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable laws.