Director of Development

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Caldwell Zoo

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Director of Development

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The Organization

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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. The Caldwell Foundation, as a former trustee of its physical and financial assets, worked as a key partner institution. After years of study and deliberation, the Foundation Board of Trustees launched an initiative to set The Caldwell Zoo up as a fully independent nonprofit with refined strategic and operational plans beginning in 2025.

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Budget & Governance

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With an annual budget of around $10 million, Caldwell Zoo benefits from stable revenue streams that include earned revenue (approximately 50%), and Caldwell Foundation contributions (approximately 50%). In advance of establishing the irrevocable trust, Zoo leadership will develop additional revenue streams such as events and private support. The Foundation is currently governed by a seven-member board, two of whom have joined the board of Caldwell Zoo, Inc., along with three additional community members. Over time, the board will grow to no more than 15 members.

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The Opportunity

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As a highly regarded and well-loved cultural attraction in Tyler, Texas, Caldwell Zoo is seeking a Senior Director of Development (Sr. DOD) to bring experience in fundraising practices to a brand-new development program. After decades of service, the leadership of The Caldwell Foundation has launched a deliberate transition plan to preserve its assets while setting the Zoo up for perpetual success. With the launch of Caldwell Zoo, Inc. in January 2025 as a public charity, the Sr. DOD will build a culture of philanthropy and capitalize on its upcoming 75th anniversary. Anticipated milestones for the advancement program are as follows:

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Execute, and adapt as circumstances require, the strategic fundraising plan including annual solicitations, planned giving, sponsorships, grants, and capital campaigns;

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Begin implementation of other fundraising programs; and

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Lay the groundwork for CZI's first capital campaign, with the launch timeline to be confirmed by the CEO and Board of Directors.

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Responsibilities

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Reporting to the President & CEO of CZI, the Sr. DOD will grow the relatively new Development Program to broaden the zoo's philanthropic support base, including the long-term planning and full implementation of the current upper-level giving membership program. In collaboration with marketing team members, the successful executive will implement fundraising programs such as annual giving, planned giving, sponsorships, grant writing, fundraising events, and capital campaigns. Specifically, the Sr. DOD will:

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Execute, adapting as required by circumstance, the strategic fundraising plan, leveraging the fundraising experience alongside the CEO to achieve the plan's goals.

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Identify, support, and secure gifts from a portfolio of major gift donors focusing on foundations, individuals, corporations, and members.

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Work with CEO and Executive leadership to establish annual revenue targets.

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Generate the development department budget and monitor for progress against goals, providing regular reports to the CEO, senior team, and Board of Directors.

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Maintain policies, systems, and procedures that support fundraising stability and growth.

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Provide leadership for day-to-day operations, including, but not limited to, records management, development goals, and metrics for the department.

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Develop, implement, and manage strategies for engaging with promising individuals and philanthropic organizations who align with CZI's values to establish relationships, secure commitments for support, and find prospects to continue expanding the mission.

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Participate in the creation of high-priority and high-quality fundraising materials, including crafting key narratives.

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Lead a team of professionals by setting annual individual and team performance goals, conducting regular reviews to evaluate progress, and providing professional development opportunities that continually elevate the department's effectiveness and efficiency.

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Other duties as assigned.

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Experience Required

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Minimum of 6 years, with meaningful experience in major gifts (large individual or institutional donations, typically $10,000 and up), and experience with capital campaigns preferred.

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Salary

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$105,000 - $140,000

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How to Apply

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Peña Search has been exclusively retained to lead the search for the Caldwell Zoo's Senior Director of Development. For inquiries or to apply, please submit a resume and letter of interest to travis@penasearch.com.

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Caldwell Zoo

PO Box 4785

Tyler, TX 75702

Phone: 9035930121

Fax: 9035955083

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Visit our website

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