THE BIRD RESCUE CENTER OF SONOMA COUNTY
DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

 
 
 
 

THIS POSITION IS HYBRID UNTIL COMPLETION OF THE FACILITY.

ABOUT THE BIRD RESCUE CENTER OF SONOMA COUNTY
The Bird Rescue Center (BRC) is a 501(c)(3) organization located in the heart of the beautiful Sonoma County California wine country and the Pacific Flyway, one of the major avian migration routes in North America. It was incorporated in 1976 for the purpose of rescuing and rehabilitating sick, injured, and orphaned wild birds and is considered today to be one of the premiere avian rehabilitation organizations dedicated to all species of native wild birds. Licensed by both Federal and State of California Departments of Fish & Wildlife, they treat approximately 2,500 birds annually, representing more than 130 different species, and serve a five-county area comprised of Sonoma, Lake, Mendocino, Napa, and Marin counties.

BRC’s mission includes both their life-saving rehabilitation program and a vibrant education program focused on instilling stewardship within the community and emphasizing the critical role birds play in maintaining our environment and helping our ecosystems recover from natural disasters like wildfires and floods. At the heart of the education program are BRC’s Education Ambassadors, who provide living examples far more impactful than books and study materials, in conveying the importance of wild birds to our environment. Each bird is in our care due to previous injuries or other debilitating conditions that made it impossible for them to return to a life in the wild. Every Ambassador encounter offers powerful evidence of the important connection between humans and the natural world around us. These birds instill critical lessons that inspire audiences to become better stewards for the well-being of all birds and our environment.

A CRITICAL MOMENT IN TIME
Never in their half a century of service has there been such an amazing opportunity to play such a vital role in shaping BRC’s future. Now is perhaps the most exciting time in BRC’s history as they plan a brand-new facility to house both their rehabilitation hospital and education program. This is a unique opportunity to usher BRC’s long-term vision for the future into reality while supporting their ongoing mission. If you have the passion, imagination, and skills necessary, you can help them soar to even greater heights.

The recent sale of the property where BRC has operated for five decades presents an opportunity that is both challenging and rewarding: build a modern, new facility equal to the level of excellence that has come to be the hallmark of their work.

The following are already in place to help set the stage for success:

  • A long-term lease on five acres in a central location.

  • A talented group of professionals working pro bono to design the new facility.

  • Pledges for in-kind gifts and services valued at over $3 million.

  • Cash donations of close to $5 million and pledges for an additional almost $3 million.

OPPORTUNITY HIGHLIGHTS

  • Salary Range: $85,000 - $100,000

  • Benefits include:

    • Vacation: Regular full-time employees accrue 10 days in first year

    • Sick Days: 40 hours per year

    • 10 Paid Holidays Annually

    • Medical, Vision, and Dental Insurance

    • Simple IRA Retirement Plan with 3% Employer Matching

    • Hybrid work environment

YOU ARE

  • A talented and thoughtful development professional with experience in donor cultivation, database management, events, annual fund, and knowledge of the major gifts process.

  • Knowledgeable about capital campaigns and operational fundraising.

  • A skillful communicator adept in both verbal and written communications.

  • Collaborative and goal-oriented.

  • Passionate about protecting natural lands and animals and fostering a culture of philanthropy within a growing organization.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Bird Rescue Center (BRC) seeks a highly organized, effective, and efficient Development Manager to work hand in hand with the Director of Development, staff, and volunteers to help BRC succeed in completing its $18M Invest in the Skies Capital Campaign.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

The Development Manager reports directly to the Director of Development (DOD). The Development Manager works in close collaboration with the DOD, Executive Director, Board of Directors, and staff in support of organizational fundraising goals.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Fundraising Strategy: With the DOD, develop and execute annual plans for diverse revenue streams, including individual donors, corporate sponsorships, and foundation grants.

    • Work closely with DOD to support major gift/campaign strategies and solicitations.

  • Donor Cultivation & Stewardship: Manage a portfolio of annual fund prospects and mid-level donors (5-6 figure gifts) by conducting research, personal meetings, and timely follow-ups.

  • Grant Management: In coordination with the DOD, identify foundation prospects, write proposals, and manage reporting to secure grant funding.

  • Event Management: In coordination with the DOD and other staff, assist with fundraising events as needed, including sponsorships, logistics, and volunteer management.

  • Database Management: Ensure donor records are entered and maintained, tracking moves management and analyzing fundraising metrics—all with great attention to detail and accuracy.

  • Team Leadership: Collaborate with the Executive Director, board members, and volunteers to meet fundraising milestones.

  • Strategic Communications: Work with staff and consultants to collect and create compelling materials and talking points to help raise BRC’s strategic profile with key audiences.

    • Work with staff and consultants to deepen and refine all aspects of communications—from web presence to external relations with the goal of creating a stronger brand and increasing awareness.

COMPETENCIES

  • Bachelor's degree, advanced training or certification a plus (CFRE, CAP, etc.)

  • Three to five (3-5) years of fundraising experience in the nonprofit sector.

  • Capital Campaign knowledge; experience preferred.

  • Strong communications skills, including ability to write and support creation of successful, high-quality reports and fundraising materials.

  • Ability to execute fundraising strategies with multiple priorities.

  • Strong intrapersonal skills, aptitude for building relationships.

  • Strong organizational and time management skills.

  • Ability to work both collaboratively and independently.

  • Passion for and dedication to the mission of the Bird Rescue Center.

EQUITY STATEMENT
The Bird Rescue Center of Sonoma County is committed to building an inclusive and equitable organization. We value diverse perspectives and backgrounds. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

TO APPLY
For more information, or to apply for the Development Manager position, please upload your resume and cover letter here. All applications will be kept confidential, and every applicant will receive a response.