Fundraising Manager

Dogwatch Sanctuary Trust; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A charitable organization focused on dog rescue is seeking a Fundraising Manager in Christchurch. This role involves leading fundraising efforts, developing a comprehensive strategy, and contributing to a major capital campaign. Candidates should have proven leadership experience in fundraising, exceptional communication skills, and a passion for animal welfare. This position provides an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of rescue dogs and offers a supportive working environment.

Qualifications

• Proven success in fundraising leadership (ideally 5+ years).
• Experience or enthusiasm for capital campaigns.
• Ability to build meaningful connections with stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver the capital campaign for site redevelopment.
• Develop a comprehensive fundraising plan.
• Nurture relationships with donors and sponsors.

Skills

Fundraising leadership experience

Strategic mindset

Exceptional communication skills

Financial and project management abilities

Passion for animal welfare

Job description

Fundraising Manager – Dogwatch Sanctuary Trust

Turn your passion for dogs into a career that changes lives – both human and canine.

Are you an experienced fundraising professional with a heart for animals and a drive to make a real impact? At Dogwatch Sanctuary Trust, we’ve been rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming dogs across Canterbury for more than 40 years – giving thousands of dogs a second chance at life and love. Now, we’re ready to take things to the next level with an exciting site redevelopment project that will transform what we can offer for education, rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming.

And this is where you come in.

We’re on the lookout for a strategic, creative and relationship-focused Fundraising Manager to join our senior leadership team and play a key role in growing and shaping our fundraising programme – including supporting a major capital campaign that will take Dogwatch into the future.

This isn’t just another fundraising role. It’s the opportunity to:

• Help drive a transformational project that will redefine what’s possible for Dogwatch
• Engage with passionate supporters – from donors and volunteers to community and corporate partners
• Innovate and expand fundraising programmes that make a tangible difference in the lives of rescue dogs
• Work with a dedicated and caring team who believe in collaboration, compassion, and creating lasting change

Oh, and did we mention the daily dog cuddles?

Why you’ll love this role

• Purpose with impact: Every dollar you raise helps a dog find its forever home
• Leadership opportunity: Shape the direction of our fundraising strategy and contribute to an exciting capital campaign
• Collaborative environment: Join a supportive senior management team and engaged Trustees who’ll champion your success
• Diverse, rewarding work: From major donors to community events, no two days will be the same.

What we’re looking for

This is a senior, full-time role based in Christchurch. To succeed, you’ll bring:

• Proven success in fundraising leadership (ideally 5+ years) with experience in, or enthusiasm for, contributing to a capital campaign
• A strategic and innovative mindset – someone who sees opportunities and makes them happen
• Exceptional communication skills for building meaningful connections with donors, stakeholders, and the community
• Sound financial and project management abilities to deliver fundraising goals
• Passion, professionalism, and integrity – aligning with Dogwatch’s values at every step

Key responsibilities

• Contribute to the planning and delivery of our capital campaign for site redevelopment
• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan including major donors, grants, individual giving, bequests, and events
• Build and nurture long-term relationships with donors, sponsors, trusts, foundations, and community supporters
• Oversee fundraising communications and donor stewardship to grow engagement and support
• Collaborate closely with the GM, Trustees, and the wider Dogwatch team to achieve shared goals

Why Dogwatch?

We’re a well-respected, long-standing charity with a big heart and bold ambitions. We offer a supportive, inclusive, and flexible working environment where your skills will be valued, your career can grow, and your work will truly matter.

How to apply

If you’re ready to shape a campaign that will transform the future for dogs in need – and love the idea of being part of something truly meaningful – we’d love to hear from you.

Applications close: Friday 7 November 2025 (Interviews may be held earlier for suitable candidates)

For the full position description, email [emailprotected]

Applicants must have permanent work rights in New Zealand.

Dogwatch Sanctuary Trust – Every Dog in a Loving Home