Job Description

Job details

Location: St. Catharines, ON

Pay: $90,000/year

Job type: Full-time (2-year term, renewal based on successful performance)

Shift and schedule: Monday to Friday days; Weekends as needed; Evenings as needed

How to Apply:

To apply for this exciting opportunity, please submit your cover letter and resume in confidence to cdunne@hsgn.ca

Join a Purpose-Driven Organization Transforming Animal Welfare

At Humane Society of Greater Niagara (HSGN), we prevent unnecessary animal suffering and create brighter futures for the animals and communities we serve. We are more than a shelter: we are a voice, a sanctuary, and a hub for public education, responsible pet ownership, and accessible care. We also play a vital role in providing animal control and by-law enforcement services, ensuring public safety, and promoting humane treatment for all animals in our community.

The Director of Fundraising and Major Gifts reports to the Executive Director and serves as staff liaison to the Board of Directors. This role is responsible for leading and growing all fundraising streams, including major gifts, annual giving, corporate sponsorships, planned giving, and grants, with clear annual revenue growth targets. The successful candidate will build and steward a portfolio of high-net-worth donors, foundations, and corporate partners; oversee donor events and campaigns; and directly contribute to increasing HSGN's capacity to shelter, treat, and rehome animals.

The Opportunity: What You Will Do

Fundraising Strategy & Major Gifts

Lead the development and execution of a long -term fundraising strategy aligned with HSGN's mission and strategic plan. Personally secure new commitments annually through high-value donor engagement. Collaborate with the management team on cultivation, stewardship, retention, and solicitation strategies across all fundraising streams. Identify and cultivate relationships with individual supporters, foundations, and corporate partners. Partner with the Executive Director, Board members, and volunteers to secure transformational gifts.

Major Capital Campaign

Lead the planning, launch, and execution of HSGN's upcoming multi-million-dollar capital campaign to fund facility upgrades, expanded programs, and enhanced animal care capabilities.

Grants, Sponsorships & Campaigns

Identify and pursue grant opportunities from government, corporate, and private foundations. Lead grant proposal writing, submission, and compliance reporting in collaboration with program staff. Secure corporate sponsorships for events and programs. Oversee planning and execution of donor campaigns, receptions, signature fundraising events, and community initiatives. Evaluate event outcomes and apply learnings to improve future campaigns.

Team Mentorship & Compliance

Promote a culture of inclusion, transparency, and ethical fundraising across the organization. Ensure all initiatives comply with CRA regulations, Imagine Canada's Ethical Fundraising Code, and AFP's Code of Ethics. Prepare and monitor budgets for the development portfolio.

What You Bring - Required

8-10 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising. Proven success securing and stewarding major gifts. Experience with annual giving, sponsorship, and grant acquisition. Excellent communication, leadership, and project management skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and donor CRM systems (GiveCloud an asset). Strong understanding of donor privacy laws, fundraising ethics, and CRA receipting requirements. A valid Ontario driver's license and access to reliable transportation.
Preferred

CFRE designation or actively pursuing certification. Experience leading staff or volunteers. Graphic design, digital communications, or social media experience. The candidate will be results-driven, a self-starter and highly motivated with a leadership and interpersonal style that fosters collaborative and productive relations with a diverse group of people.

Compensation & Benefits

$90,000 Salary Health care benefits RRSP matching program Mileage reimbursement for work travel
Performance & Renewal

This is a two-year term position, with renewal based on meeting or exceeding fundraising targets, demonstrating leadership impact, and contributing to HSGN's strategic priorities.

How to Apply: Please submit your cover letter and resume in confidence to cdunne@hsgn.ca with the subject line Director of Fundraising & Major Gifts Application. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Early applications are encouraged.

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

Humane Society of Greater Niagara is committed to fostering a workplace that reflects the diversity of our community. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, including Indigenous peoples, members of racialized communities, persons with disabilities, members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, and others with lived experience that can contribute to an inclusive and equitable workplace.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: Up to $90,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental care Discounted or free food Employee assistance program Extended health care On-site parking Paid time off RRSP match Store discount Vision care Wellness program
Work Location: In person