Director of Development

Posted: 11/06/2026

We're Hiring: Director of Development

Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association (KCHA)
Location: Charleston, WV (Hybrid)
Position Type: Full-Time
Salary: negotiable based on experience and qualifications

About Us

The Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association (KCHA) is a nonprofit animal welfare organization dedicated to saving lives and strengthening the bond between people and pets. Serving Kanawha County since 1935, KCHA provides animal sheltering, adoption services, affordable veterinary care, spay/neuter programs, and community outreach initiatives.

As we continue to grow and expand our impact, we are seeking a passionate, motivated, and experienced Director of Development to join our leadership team.

About the Position

The Director of Development plays a key leadership role in advancing KCHA's mission by building meaningful donor relationships, strengthening community partnerships, and leading fundraising initiatives that support our lifesaving work.

This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of animal welfare in our community. In addition to overseeing annual fundraising efforts, the Director of Development will play an integral role in our Building Second Chances capital campaign, a $15 million fundraising initiative to support the construction of a new animal shelter.

The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker, strong communicator, and relationship builder who enjoys connecting people with a mission that makes a difference.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement fundraising strategies to support annual revenue goals and long-term organizational growth.

  • Provide strategic and operational leadership for KCHA's $15 million Building Second Chances capital campaign.

  • Cultivate and maintain relationships with individual donors, major gift prospects, corporate sponsors, foundations, and community partners.

  • Identify and pursue new fundraising opportunities, sponsorships, and philanthropic partnerships.

  • Plan and oversee signature fundraising events, including Tuxes & Tails and Kegs 4K9s.

  • Collaborate with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, campaign consultants, and volunteer committees to advance fundraising initiatives.

  • Lead donor stewardship efforts, including donor recognition, communications, and relationship management.

  • Oversee donor database management, gift processing, fundraising reporting, and donor engagement tracking.

  • Represent KCHA at community events, meetings, and public speaking opportunities.

  • Monitor fundraising performance and provide updates to organizational leadership and the Board of Directors.

Qualifications

  • Minimum of three years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, development, or a related field.

  • Bachelor's degree preferred; equivalent education and relevant professional experience will be considered.

  • Demonstrated success in fundraising, donor cultivation, and relationship management.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.

  • Experience with donor databases, fundraising reporting, and development operations.

  • Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with staff, volunteers, and organizational leadership.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office.

  • A genuine passion for animal welfare and KCHA's mission.

Work Environment

This is a full-time, hybrid position with regular on-site responsibilities at KCHA in Charleston, West Virginia. Some evening, weekend, and holiday availability is required for fundraising events, meetings, and community activities.

Why Join KCHA?

At KCHA, your work will directly contribute to saving animals' lives and creating a better future for pets and the people who love them.

As Director of Development, you'll have the opportunity to build lasting community relationships, lead meaningful fundraising initiatives, and help bring a transformational new animal shelter to life.

If you're a relationship-driven fundraising professional who wants to make a lasting difference, we'd love to hear from you!