Executive Director

The Executive Director of the Dog Aging Institute will provide visionary leadership to advance our mission of improving the health and longevity of companion dogs while gaining insights that may benefit human aging. The ideal candidate is a dynamic, mission-driven leader with strong nonprofit management experience, exceptional relationship-building skills, and a passion for the human-animal bond. The Executive Director possesses a strategic mindset to grow the organization, build sustainable funding streams, and expand the Institute's research impact and community programs.

The job is remote but preference will be given for those located near Boston, MA. This position will report to the Board of Directors. Hours are full-time, with occasional evening and weekend hours for events.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan aligned with the Institute's mission and goals
• Provide visionary leadership that inspires staff, volunteers, and stakeholders
• Represent the Institute as a thought leader in the fields of canine health, aging research, and the human-animal bond
• Seek growth opportunities and potential partners with innovative approaches to advance canine aging research
• Ensure all activities align with the Institute's mission, values, and strategic priorities

Board & Committee Relations

• Work closely with the Board of Directors to align organizational efforts with strategic goals
• Prepare and provide regular updates on organizational activities, financial status, and program outcomes
• Support Board recruitment, development, and engagement
• Collaborate with the Board to establish and review organizational policies and procedures

Financial Management & Sustainability

• Oversee all financial operations, including budget development, financial reporting, and fiscal responsibility, working closely with the organization’s Treasurer
• Develop sound financial practices and sustainability
• Manage organizational resources effectively and efficiently
• Develop and monitor annual operating budgets and long-term financial forecasts
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations and reporting requirements

Fundraising & Development

• Lead comprehensive fundraising efforts to achieve revenue goals and ensure organizational sustainability
• Cultivate and steward relationships with major donors, foundations, corporate partners, and individual supporters
• Oversee grant identification, writing, and reporting processes
• Develop innovative fundraising strategies, including special events, planned giving, and recurring donation programs
• Engage the Board in fundraising activities and donor relationship building

Program Development & Oversight

• Provide leadership for all Institute programs, identify opportunities to support research initiatives, community outreach, and educational offerings
• Collaborate with research partners and veterinary professionals to ensure program quality and impact
• Develop metrics and evaluation processes to measure program effectiveness
• Ensure programs remain aligned with current research and best practices in canine health and aging
• Identify and pursue opportunities for program growth and innovation

Community Engagement & Partnerships

• Serve as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for the Institute
• Build and maintain strategic partnerships with veterinary schools, research institutions, animal welfare organizations, corporate and business entities, and other relevant stakeholders
• Represent the Institute at conferences, community events, and media opportunities
• Develop and implement community engagement strategies to enhance the organization's visibility and impact
• Foster collaborative relationships with organizations sharing aligned missions

Operations & Administration

• Oversee daily operations to ensure efficient and effective delivery of programs and services
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and organizational policies
• Identify and mitigate organizational risks through proactive management
• Maintain official records and documentation in accordance with best practices
• Implement and regularly review organizational policies and procedures
• Recruit new administrative assistant and other staff as opportunities arise

Human Resources & Team Leadership

• Build, lead, and develop a high-performing team aligned with the Institute's mission and values
• Oversee human resource functions including recruitment, onboarding, professional development, and performance management
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative organizational culture
• Ensure appropriate staffing to meet current and future organizational needs
• Provide mentorship and growth opportunities for staff at all levels

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree in nonprofit management, business, animal health, or related field preferred
• Minimum of 7-10 years leadership experience in nonprofit management, preferably in animal welfare, health research, or a related field
• Demonstrated success in fundraising and donor relationship management
• Strong financial management and budgeting experience
• Exceptional communication and public speaking skills
• Proven ability to build and maintain effective partnerships with diverse stakeholders
• Experience working with boards of directors and volunteers
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Passion for and knowledge of canine health, the human-animal bond, and/or aging research
• Experience in scientific or research-based organizations
• Grant writing and management experience
• Background in veterinary medicine, animal welfare, or related field
• Demonstrated success in growing organizational capacity and impact
• Experience with program development and evaluation
• Proficiency with nonprofit CRM systems and data management

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Passionate commitment to the Institute's mission of improving canine health and longevity
• Visionary leadership style that inspires others
• Collaborative approach to working with diverse stakeholders
• Excellent interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence
• Ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to varied audiences
• Integrity, transparency, and ethical decision-making
• Adaptability and resilience in a growing organization