Director of Development

A Note to Fundraising Professionals: Why This Role Is Different

We know why so many talented fundraisers have left the field: toxic work cultures, lack of support, and impossible expectations. Too often, development leaders are expected to parachute in, find new donors, and save the organization in six months - while juggling five jobs.

That’s not how Flatbush Cats operates.

Our team focuses on depth over breadth - doing a few things exceptionally well. We have tremendous momentum, growing from under $500K to $5M+ in less than five years to tackle the root causes of NYC’s overcrowded animal shelter crisis.

This role is about harnessing that momentum and bringing supporters together around an ambitious, shared vision for change.

Here’s what you can count on:

• Clear focus: Your work centers on fundraising strategy, team leadership, and major gifts - not endless side projects or galas.
• Strong support: You’ll lead a capable, growing team (currently 3 FTE + ED) covering core development functions - with a board and leadership team ready to back you, not micromanage.
• Realistic expectations: We understand that building relationships takes time. You’ll have the space, support, and onboarding you need to succeed.

If you’re ready to help lead the next phase of growth in a healthy, collaborative environment - we’d love to hear from you.

OK, here’s the details:

Director of Development

Flatbush Cats is seeking a Director of Development to lead and grow our fundraising efforts with a focus on long-term sustainability and impact. This role will:

• Shape and drive our fundraising strategy
• Manage and inspire a high-performing development team
• Personally lead major gifts and strategic partnerships

The ideal candidate is a seasoned fundraiser and people-first manager with a collaborative, strategic mindset. They bring a proven track record of raising significant revenue while fostering a culture of philanthropy.

We strongly encourage candidates from underrepresented and marginalized communities to apply.

This is a hybrid role based in Brooklyn; travel within NYC (and occasionally outside of the city) is required.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy

• Develop and lead a multi-channel fundraising strategy aligned with our growth goals
• Drive revenue across individual giving, major gifts, institutional funding, corporate partnerships, and digital campaigns
• Partner with the ED and Board to secure long-term financial health

Major Gifts & Donor Engagement

• Manage a portfolio of ~30 major donors and prospects, soliciting 5-, 6-, and 7-figure gifts
• Lead stewardship to deepen donor relationships and inspire ongoing support
• Represent Flatbush Cats with funders, partners, and stakeholders

Team Leadership

• Lead and develop a growing team of 3 (email, major gifts, donor relations/data)
• Provide clear direction, mentorship, and professional development
• Manage budget and revenue goals; hiring as needed to support growth
• Engage and activate the board in relationship building

Operations & Systems

• Optimize development systems (Salesforce) and other key platforms
• Ensure best practices in donor management, acknowledgments, and reporting
• Guide planning with development reports, dashboards, and materials

Qualifications

• 6+ years nonprofit fundraising experience, including major gifts and team leadership
• Proven ability to design and execute strategies that meet goals
• Strong people manager and relationship-builder
• Excellent communication, storytelling, and project management skills
• Experience with digital fundraising, audience development, and capital campaigns
• Proficiency with Salesforce, Classy (or similar), Google Workspace

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous PTO and holidays
• Flexible hybrid schedule
• Coaching and professional development support
• A collaborative, mission-driven team — plus unlimited cats

To Apply

Apply at www.flatbushcats.org/careers Applications reviewed on a rolling basis.

About Flatbush Cats

Flatbush Cats is on a mission to reduce overcrowded animal shelters in New York City. We are committed to building a diverse, inclusive team that reflects our community and provides equal opportunity to all applicants.