Executive Director

About Anita’s Stevens Swan Humane Society

Anita’s Stevens Swan Humane Society is a community-based animal welfare organization dedicated to protecting, sheltering, and advocating for animals in need throughout the Mohawk Valley. Through compassionate care, adoption services, community outreach, and humane education, we work to improve the lives of animals and strengthen the human-animal bond.

Our next Executive Director will lead the organization into its next phase of growth. This person will be responsible for strengthening operations, expanding programs, building community partnerships, and ensuring long-term sustainability.

Position Summary

The Executive Director is responsible for overall leadership, strategic direction, operational management, fundraising, and community engagement. Working closely with the Board of Directors, the Executive Director ensures the organization fulfills its mission while maintaining strong financial health, effective programs, and a positive organizational culture. This role requires a hands-on leader who can balance strategic vision with day-to-day operational management.

Key Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership

• Implement the strategic direction of the organization in partnership with the Board of Directors based on new strategic plan
• Provide leadership and support to staff and volunteers
• Foster a culture of accountability, compassion, and teamwork
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations governing animal shelters
• Support Shelter Manager in oversight of daily shelter operations including animal care, adoptions, and support services
• Ensure high standards of animal welfare and humane care
• Develop and implement policies and procedures that improve operational efficiency
• Develop and monitor key performance metrics and program outcomes

Financial Management

• Manage the organization’s budget and financial planning
• Ensure responsible stewardship of organizational resources
• Work with the Board to develop sustainable revenue strategies
• Oversee financial reporting and compliance

Fundraising and Development

• Lead fundraising initiatives including major gifts, grants, events, and donor stewardship
• Cultivate relationships with donors, foundations, and corporate partners
• Identify new funding opportunities to support program growth

Community Engagement

• Serve as a public ambassador for the organization
• Build partnerships with local municipalities, rescue organizations, veterinarians, and community stakeholders
• Strengthen the Humane Society’s visibility and reputation within the community
• Work closely with the Board of Directors to implement governance policies and strategic priorities
• Provide regular reports to the Board of Directors on organizational performance
• Support Board development and engagement

Qualifications

Required

• Demonstrated leadership experience in nonprofit management, animal welfare, or a related field
• Strong organizational and operational management skills
• Experience managing staff, volunteers, and budgets
• Proven ability to build relationships with community partners and stakeholders
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Preferred

• Experience in animal welfare, shelter management, or veterinary-related organizations
• Fundraising and grant writing experience
• Knowledge of nonprofit financial management and governance
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in nonprofit management, business administration, public administration, or a related field