Executive Director - High Volume Animal Shelter

Animal Friends Humane Society • Fairfield Township, OH

5d

About The Position

Executive Director – High-Volume Animal Shelter Location: Hamilton Ohio Employment Type: Full-Time About Us: We are a high-volume animal shelter dedicated to saving lives through compassionate care, innovative programs, and strong community partnerships. Join us in making a difference for thousands of animals every year. Position Overview: The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of a high-volume, complex nonprofit organization, responsible for the overall health, sustainability, and performance of the shelter. This role requires a leader who can balance mission-driven animal welfare outcomes with strong business, financial, and people leadership, ensuring the organization operates effectively, compliantly, and responsibly.

Requirements

• Demonstrated success in executive leadership roles, with a track record of driving organizational growth and operational excellence.
• Advanced proficiency in financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and resource optimization for complex organizations.
• Proven ability to develop and implement strategic business plans that achieve measurable results and long-term sustainability.
• Experience in revenue generation, fundraising, and diversifying income streams to strengthen financial resilience.
• Skilled in risk management, regulatory compliance, and establishing robust internal controls.
• Deep knowledge of animal care best practices, including shelter medicine, population management, enrichment, and welfare standards.
• Experience implementing and monitoring protocols that ensure the highest standards of humane care, safety, and disease prevention.
• Commitment to continuous improvement in animal care, staying current with industry trends and evidence-based practices.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, animal science, nonprofit management, or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide visionary leadership and manage day-to-day shelter operations.
• Oversee animal care programs, intake/adoption processes, and disease prevention protocols.
• Own the financial stewardship of the organization, including budgeting, forecasting, cash-flow management, and long-term financial planning.
• Lead fundraising as a core business function, including donor strategy, revenue diversification, grant oversight.
• Build strong community partnerships and represent the shelter publicly.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations.
• Manage HR functions including recruitment, onboarding, performance evaluations, and employee relations.
• Administer payroll, benefits, and maintain compliance with labor laws.
• Oversee Workers’ Compensation (BWC) and unemployment claims, ensuring accurate reporting and timely resolution.
• Implement workplace safety and risk management policies.

Benefits

• Retirement plan options with employer contributions.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities, including industry conferences, certifications, and leadership training.
• Supportive, mission-driven work environment focused on collaboration and innovation.
• Direct opportunity to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare and community well-being.
• Dental, life, and short-term disability insurance coverage
• Paid time off, sick leave, and holiday pay

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive