Chief Advancement Officer

Halifax Humane Society

Job Description

Summary

Halifax Humane Society is building a tremendous lifesaving culture, and we are hiring dedicated, brilliant people to join our team. The Chief Advancement Officer (CAO) will play a critical leadership role in securing the financial resources necessary to sustain and grow our lifesaving efforts. Reporting directly to the CEO, the CAO will create, implement, and oversee a comprehensive advancement program, including major gifts, annual giving, corporate and foundation support, donor relations, marketing and promotion, and capital campaign management. This position fosters a culture of philanthropy across the organization, strengthens brand visibility, and leads a dynamic, donor-centric team committed to mission-driven success.

Hiring Range: $105,000 to $130,000 | Relocation and Signing Bonus Paid
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Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Support and advocate for the philosophy, policies, and programs of the Halifax Humane Society.
• Develop and execute Halifax Humane Society’s annual fundraising and marketing plan to secure sustainable funding and expand public awareness.
• Embracing the Benevon Model, build and manage a comprehensive major gifts program to cultivate multi-year, transformational giving from individual donors.
• Identify, qualify, cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of approximately 100-150 major gift prospects, emphasizing gifts of $5,000+ and focusing on donors capable of $10,000+ commitments.
• Conduct a minimum of 100 strategic donor moves and participate in a minimum of 25 solicitations per year to meet or exceed revenue targets.
• Supervise and mentor the Director of Partnerships & Events, overseeing all fundraising event planning and execution, sponsorship acquisition, volunteer engagement, and media coordination.
• Direct and manage marketing, advertising, public relations, and communications initiatives, ensuring brand consistency and expanding visibility across digital, print, and broadcast platforms.
• Serve as the primary liaison to media outlets, proactively pitching stories, managing press releases, and representing the organization in interviews and public appearances.
• Oversee and grow earned revenue opportunities, including the development and management of thrift store and retail pet supply operations.
• Oversee the donor database (CRM) integrity, ensuring accurate data entry, gift processing, and reporting by supervising the Advancement Associate (Data).
• Build and execute a comprehensive donor communication and engagement plan, ensuring regular touchpoints that educate, inspire, and foster long-term donor loyalty.
• Work collaboratively with senior leadership, board members, volunteers, and staff to advance fundraising, marketing, and earned income goals.
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Skills and Experience
• Bachelor’s Degree required; Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) designation a plus.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of demonstrated success in institutional development, including 1–2 years of major gift fundraising experience.
• Proven track record in donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship resulting in significant financial support.
• Demonstrated experience in marketing, media relations, and brand promotion.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; strong presentation and interpersonal abilities.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing complex projects with competing deadlines.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and mentor staff and volunteers.
• Knowledge of and proficiency with donor CRM systems; experience with database management considered an asset.
• Ability to work independently, exercise good judgment, and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Passion for Halifax Humane Society’s mission and commitment to promoting animal welfare.

This is a full time job