Position Overview

NICST is seeking a dynamic, strategic, and compassionate leader for the Development &

Program Director role. This full-time, on-site position combines responsibilities in fundraising,

development, and program management, with roughly 60% dedicated to growth and

development and 40% to overseeing program operations. The Director will report to the CEO

and play a vital role in advancing the organizations mission, sustainability, and growth,

especially guiding NICST through its transition from a small nonprofit to a $12 million

organization.

Key Responsibilities

Development & Fundraising (60%)

Lead and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies, including individual giving,

corporate sponsorships, planned giving, and major donor cultivation.

Oversee donor engagement, stewardship, and retention, ensuring a strong culture of

philanthropy across the organization.

Manage fundraising CRM systems such as Salesforce or DonorPerfect, ensuring accurate

donor tracking and analytics.

Develop, write, and manage nongovernmental grant proposals and reports.

Coordinate and execute fundraising campaigns and events, including digital and community-

based initiatives.

Build and maintain relationships with donors, foundations, and corporate partners.

Collaborate with marketing and communications staff to tell compelling stories of impact.

Support and train board members and volunteers in fundraising efforts.

Track metrics to evaluate fundraising success and report progress to leadership and the

board.

Prepare and publish annual accomplishment reports.

Coordinate and contribute to quarterly newsletters.

Program Leadership (40%)

Provide leadership and oversight across all program areas, ensuring excellence, innovation,

and compliance with accreditation standards.

Work collaboratively with training, client services, and volunteer staff to deliver high-quality

service dog programs.

Ensure programs are aligned with organizational goals and meet the standards of Assistance

Dogs International (ADI) and the ISO 9001 governing principles.

Supervise program staff, providing mentorship, performance evaluation, and professional

development.

Analyze data and outcomes to improve program effectiveness and client satisfaction.

Develop and maintain community partnerships to support program delivery and expansion.

Collaborate with leadership to develop new initiatives and ensure operational sustainability.

Represent NICST at public events, conferences, and community meetings, fostering visibility

and engagement.

Required Qualifications

Minimum of 5 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, marketing, and development.

Demonstrated experience managing and growing programs within a mission-driven

organization.

Proven success in grant writing, major donor engagement, estate (legacy) giving, and

fundraising campaign execution ($1M to $2M range).

Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate teams and engage

diverse stakeholders.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience with public speaking

to audiences of 100 or more.

Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Salesforce, DonorPerfect, or similar CRM systems.

Proficiency in generative AI, prompts, fundraising, and development AI.

Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and follow-through.

Experience helping nonprofits transition to higher budget levels ($1M$2M range).

Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and variable hours as needed.

Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and the mission of NICST.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in nonprofit management, communications, development, or related field.
• CFRE or equivalent fundraising certification.
• Experience in the service dog or animal-assisted program sector.
• Knowledge of Assistance Dogs International accreditation standards.