Caldwell Zoo
Chief Advancement Officer
The Organization
Located in Tyler, Texas, The Caldwell Zoo strives to connect people with the wonders of wildlife to cultivate an appreciation for the natural world. For over seven decades, the zoo has invited residents of East Texas to witness the spectacular diversity of animals from all around the globe. The zoo does all it can to share the magnificence of nature through unforgettable experiences and educational programs to inspire others to take action to ensure the vitality of the animal kingdom for generations to come.
Role
As a highly regarded and well-loved cultural attraction in Tyler, Texas, Caldwell Zoo is seeking a Chief Advancement Officer (CAO) to bring experience in advancement practices to initiate a brand-new fundraising program. The CAO will build a culture of philanthropy and capitalize on its upcoming 75th anniversary. Anticipated milestones for the advancement program are as follows:
- Design and implement an upper-level membership program
- Plan and develop strategies for other advancement programs including donations, planned giving, sponsorships, grants, and capital campaigns;
- Begin implementation of other advancement programs;
- Implement the first capital campaign in 2027 in conjunction with the 75th Anniversary of Caldwell Zoo.
Responsibilities
Reporting to the President & CEO of CZI, the CAO will craft a new Advancement Program to broaden the zoo’s philanthropic support base. The successful executive will plan, grow, and maintain the program with creative marketing strategies and implement other advancement programs such as annual giving, planned giving, sponsorships, grant writing, fundraising events, and capital campaigns. Specifically, the CAO will:
- Develop a strategic funding plan to attract philanthropic support for CZI.
- Identify, support, and secure gifts from a portfolio of major gift donors focusing on foundations, individuals, corporations, and members.
- Establish annual revenue targets and generate and monitor the development department budget for progress against goals.
- Develop and manage the overall department budget with staff.
- Oversee the development and implementation of policies, systems, and procedures that support fundraising stability and growth.
- Provide leadership for the development of day-to-day operations.
- Develop, implement, and manage strategies for engaging with promising individuals and philanthropic organizations.
- Lead the creation of high-priority and high-quality fundraising materials.
- Lead a team of professionals by setting annual individual and team performance goals.
- Other duties as assigned.
The Ideal Candidate
Leadership
Demonstrated experience enhancing the financial health of an organization. Experience establishing a strategic plan and roadmap to implement and execute new initiatives in advancement. Capability to lead a team through change.
Experience
Six (6) to eight (8) years of experience in the nonprofit sector is preferred, including ample experience leading and developing a high-performing, comprehensive, fundraising program.
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