Vice President of Development

Zoo Knoxville; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The KNOXVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE is seeking a Vice President of Development to lead fundraising efforts for Zoo Knoxville. This role will focus on securing resources to support the zoo's mission and strategic growth.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong track record in philanthropy and relationship management, engaging closely with donors and community stakeholders. Leadership in major gifts and campaign execution is crucial for enhancing the zoo's visibility and impact.

Qualifications

• Successful experience in securing major gifts.
• Demonstrated leadership in fundraising initiatives.
• Ability to develop strategic fundraising plans.

Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of fundraising for Zoo Knoxville.
• Execute Zoo Knoxville’s capital campaign and major fundraising initiatives.
• Foster relationships with donors and community leaders.

Skills

Fundraising strategies

Major gifts acquisition

Relationship building

Stewardship

Campaign management

Job description

We are partnering with Green Meadows to fill this role. Send your resume to [e-mail]

The Vice President of Development serves as Zoo Knoxville’s head of philanthropy and is responsible for leading all philanthropic, advancement, and donor engagement strategies that support the zoo’s mission, vision, and long-term sustainability. As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, this individual partners closely with the President & CEO, Board of Directors, volunteer leadership, and senior staff to secure the financial resources necessary to advance Zoo Knoxville’s conservation, education, animal welfare, and community impact initiatives.

The Vice President of Development provides strategic leadership for all aspects of fundraising, including major gifts, annual giving, corporate philanthropy, foundation relations, planned giving, donor stewardship, and campaign management. This role is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive fundraising strategies that grow philanthropic support, deepen donor relationships, and strengthen a culture of philanthropy throughout the organization.

A primary focus of this position will be the leadership and execution of Zoo Knoxville’s transformational capital campaign and other major fundraising initiatives. The Vice President will work closely with campaign volunteers, board members, community leaders, and key stakeholders to cultivate, solicit, and steward significant philanthropic investments that support the zoo’s ambitious growth plans.

The successful candidate will be a dynamic relationship builder with a demonstrated track record of securing major gifts and leading high‑performing advancement programs. They will serve as a visible ambassador for Zoo Knoxville within the community, fostering meaningful connections with donors, foundations, corporations, and conservation partners while helping position the zoo as one of the region’s most impactful nonprofit organizations.