Director of Development

Transforming passion for turtles into conservation action.

The Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) was formed in 2001 in response to the Asian Turtle Crisis, passionately developing captive breeding colonies for species believed to be destined for extinction due to rampant unregulated trade in food and pet markets.  The TSA has since expanded to create a global chelonian conservation network with a bold commitment to Zero Turtle Extinctions.

Turtles and tortoises represent one of the most endangered groups of vertebrates on the planet, with over 50% at risk of extinction.  Since forming, the TSA has become recognized as a global leader in turtle conservation, capable of taking swift and decisive action on behalf of critically endangered turtles and tortoises. The TSA is a 501(c)3 nonprofit with a Board of Directors and nine full time US-based staff, with a centralized base of operations in South Carolina since 2013, anchored by our Turtle Survival Center (TSC). Just five years after opening, the TSC earned certification from the prestigious Association of Zoos and Aquariums in recognition of high operating standards.  The TSC is home to over 500 turtles and tortoises, representing 25 of the world’s most critically endangered chelonian species, many of which depend on captive management for survival.  The TSA has developed an extensive global footprint, with comprehensive field programs in Madagascar, Myanmar, India and Colombia, as well as projects in Belize, North America, and throughout Asia.

The Opportunity: Director of Development

Working in partnership with the President and Chief Operating Officer, the Director of Development will spearhead the Turtle Survival Alliance’s development efforts.  The Director of Development is expected to provide strong, creative, energetic, and strategic leadership in directing corporate and foundation solicitations; donor cultivation and major gifts; in-kind gift program; grant and proposal writing; capital/endowment campaigns; sponsorships, and fundraising social events. This position also supports the President in all fundraising activities.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the Turtle Survival Alliance’s fundraising plan, including strategy and support for capital campaigns, endowments, sponsorships, special projects, and annual giving
• Identify, cultivate, and solicit donors and provide donor stewardship for annual and capital campaign contributions, working closely with members of the board of trustees as appropriate
• Generate increased income from existing sources
• Identify and research potential funding opportunities
• Provide oversight to our CRM/development software and oversee staff responsible for data entry
• Develop and maintain ongoing relationships with major donors
• Create and execute a strategy for a large sustained base of annual individual donors
• Oversee special events, including an annual donor recognition event
• Develop and track proposals and reports for all foundation, individual, and corporate fundraising
• Travel to the annual conference and two board meetings, and to other donor events across the U.S. as required
• Undertake other duties as required to ensure the proper functioning of the team

Management Responsibilities

• Manage department expense budget and financial goals
• Assist and provide input into directing membership growth
• Supervise fundraising in accordance with company policies and procedures
• Carry out recruitment and selection of new staff as necessary
• Coach and develop TSA staff in fundraising techniques
• Assist and provide input into directing communications to be more effective for development and fundraising goals
• Supervise TSA staff as needed to support this position

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Exceptional leadership and management skills to inspire fundraising staff and colleagues across the organization
• Superb persuasive writing skills and crisp, motivational presentation style
• Knowledge of governance and fundraising best practices implemented by world class non-profit/ voluntary organizations
• Ability to quickly become familiar with current challenges and opportunities relating to the mission of the organization
• Demonstrated experience in financial and project management
• Proficiency with fundraising software packages