Executive Director

Description

Full job description

Executive Director

​Department: Executive
Location: Chattanooga, TN
Job Type: Full-time, Exempt
Reports To: President / Board of Directors

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive of HES, responsible for advancing our mission, strengthening organizational effectiveness, and ensuring the humane care of animals entrusted to us. This position oversees strategic planning, team leadership, program development, financial stewardship, and community relations. The Executive Director works closely with the Board of Directors to set organizational goals and ensure meaningful, measurable progress.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with the Board of Directors to shape organizational vision, goals, and policies.
• Attend and participate in all board meetings; serve as a consultant to the board and committees.
• Identify community needs and emerging trends to guide strategic decision‑making.
• Prepare monthly reports on financial status, program outcomes, and organizational performance.
• Use data and stakeholder feedback to inform planning and proposals.
• Foster a collaborative, mission‑aligned culture across the organization.
• Lead, mentor, and support staff through hiring, performance management, training, and professional development.
• Promote open communication, teamwork, and a strong customer service mindset.
• Oversee volunteer recruitment, onboarding, and engagement.
• Support leadership team members in navigating complex or sensitive issues.
• Oversee development, implementation, and evaluation of all HES programs and services.
• Ensure the humane treatment and care of all animals in HES custody.
• Oversee humane law enforcement activities, including coordination with local law enforcement and oversight of cruelty/neglect investigations.
• Maintain and update municipal contracts; recommend pricing and terms to the Board.
• Ensure organizational policies and procedures are current and consistently followed.
• Manage organizational finances in alignment with board policies and approved budgets.
• Collaborate with the Development Director on fundraising strategy, grant proposals, and donor relations.
• Supervise administrative and financial compliance, ensuring adherence to accounting standards and legal requirements.
• Represent HES in matters involving contracts, estates, major gifts, and grants.
• Oversee maintenance and stewardship of facilities and capital assets.
• Serve as a public ambassador for HES, strengthening community awareness and support.
• Lead communication strategies, media relations, and public speaking efforts.
• Evaluate risks and opportunities to protect the organization’s reputation and financial stability.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with patrons, partners, government officials, and community stakeholders.

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Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Minimum of five (5) years of leadership experience in a related field.
• Passion for animal welfare and understanding of companion animal care, control, and adoption issues.
• Demonstrated success leading teams, managing staff, and fostering positive organizational culture.
• Experience with grant writing or grant administration preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict‑resolution skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including board members, staff, volunteers, and community partners.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite; experience with shelter management software a plus.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret financial reports.
• Knowledge of federal and state regulations related to nonprofit organizations and animal welfare.
• High level of integrity, accountability, and professionalism.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $110,000.00 - $125,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Work Location: In person

How to Apply

Submit application on Indeed