Executive Director

Pay

$90,000.00 - $125,000.00 per year

About the role

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of the Humane Society of Jefferson County, Washington (HSJCWA). This position provides overall leadership, strategic direction, financial sustainability, and operational management of the organization. The role reports to the Board of Directors and is based on‑site at the shelter in Port Townsend, WA.

Responsibilities

• Organizational Leadership
  • Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction aligned with the organization’s mission and goals.
  • Develop and implement strategic plans approved by the Board of Directors.
  • Foster a positive organizational culture that reflects HSJCWA’s values.
  • Serve as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for the organization.
• Board Relations
  • Partner with the Board to establish strategic priorities and organizational policies.
  • Keep the Board informed regarding performance, opportunities, and challenges.
  • Support board development, recruitment, and engagement activities.
  • Attend and participate in Board and committee meetings.
• Financial Management
  • Develop and manage annual operating and capital budgets.
  • Ensure responsible stewardship of organizational resources.
  • Monitor financial performance and provide regular reports to the Board.
  • Oversee financial controls, audits, and regulatory compliance.
  • Identify and implement opportunities for revenue growth and long‑term sustainability.
• Fundraising and Development
  • Lead fundraising efforts including major gifts, grants, sponsorships, planned giving, and special events.
  • Cultivate relationships with donors, foundations, corporations, and community stakeholders.
  • Work with staff and volunteers to execute development strategies and campaigns.
  • Serve as a visible and active representative in fundraising initiatives.
• Operations Management
  • Oversee daily operations including animal sheltering, adoptions, foster programs, veterinary services, humane education, and community outreach.
  • Ensure high standards of animal care, welfare, and safety.
  • Monitor organizational effectiveness and implement continuous improvements.
  • Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Human Resources and Volunteer Management
  • Directly manage the Shelter Manager and Veterinarian; advise and lead the rest of the team.
  • Provide performance management, professional development, feedback, and recognition.
  • Promote professional development and employee engagement.
  • Foster a collaborative and inclusive workplace environment.
  • Implement and enforce policies, procedures, and employee handbook measures.
  • Support volunteer recruitment, training, and recognition programs.
• Community Relations and Advocacy
  • Build and maintain partnerships with local governments, animal welfare organizations, veterinary professionals, businesses, and community groups.
  • Represent the organization at public events, meetings, and media engagements.
  • Promote public awareness of animal welfare issues and humane education initiatives.
  • Advocate for policies and programs that support animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business or Public Administration, Nonprofit Management, Animal Science, or a related field.
• Five plus years of progressive leadership experience in nonprofit management, animal welfare, or a related sector.
• Experience in animal shelter management or animal welfare organizations.
• Knowledge of nonprofit governance and animal welfare regulations.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, donor relations, and grant development.
• Experience managing budgets, financial reporting, and organizational operations.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders including staff, volunteers, board members, donors, and community partners.
• Commitment to animal welfare and humane care, with a compassionate, respectful, and nonjudgmental approach.
• Interest in continued learning related to animal behavior, handling, training, and welfare.

Skills

• Strategic Leadership
• Financial Stewardship
• Fundraising and Resource Development
• Team Building and Staff Development
• Community Engagement
• Public Relations and Advocacy
• Change Management
• Ethical Decision‑Making
• Problem Solving and Critical Thinking
• Animal Welfare Compliance Acumen
• Flexibility & Resilience
• Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in fast‑paced or emotionally challenging situations

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Employee assistance program
• Professional development assistance

Schedule

Availability to work weekends, holidays, evenings, and special events as needed. The role requires frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and lifting up to 50 lb, with regular exposure to cleaning products, animal dander, noise, and outdoor weather conditions.